Maternal and Child Health Experiential Learning Fellows (MCH-ELF) Program

Overview

The HRSA-funded Maternal and Child Health Catalyst Program at USC announces the MCH-ELF program for graduate students at the Arnold School of Public Health (ASPH). The MCH-ELF program will offer $1000 tuition assistance to graduate students completing MCH-related projects in public health organizations serving women, infants, and children at local, regional, and national levels. Eligible students include:

  • MPH students: Applied Practice Experience (APE) or Integrated Learning Experience (ILE) during the spring or summer 2026
  • PhD students: Consulting Projects during the spring or summer 2026

Funding available

A total of $8,000 will be available, $1,000 per student for each experience.

Application materials

  • Cover letter stating topic (MCH-related) and future career interests
  • Resume
  • Description of project: please provide a summary of the tasks to be completed, organization, names of preceptor and faculty advisor, timeline of completion, deliverables (3 pages max)
  • Letter/email of commitment from preceptor for APE
  • Submit your Application

Expectations

  • Participate in MCH Catalyst activities (such as lunch series, Maternal & Child Health Student Association [MCHSA])
  • Presentation of results (APE/ILE/Consulting Practicum), inviting MCH faculty and students

Deliverables

  • APE: two products
  • ILE: High-quality written product, including but not limited to manuscript, program evaluation report, training manual, policy statement.
  • Consulting Practicum: Report of activities and products as a result of the practicum

Timeline

  • Application deadline: November 7, 2025
  • Announcement of selected students: December 8, 2025

FAQ

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What financial burden or costs may be associated with enrolling in the program?

Cost: There are no costs associated with the ELF program. You should not feel any financial burden in participating.

What is the expected duration of the program?

Duration & Timeline: Participation in the MCH-ELF program is flexible. Ideally, funds should be used during the spring or summer semester following acceptance into the program. All funds must be spent before the start of the next academic year. However, you’re welcome to continue participating in MCH-ELF events and activities as long as you remain actively enrolled in your academic program.

For the required project description on the application, what types of projects qualify?

Project Description: For guidance on what to include, we recommend consulting your department’s APE/ILE manual. Please utilize the Applied Practice Experience Proposal Template.

How might participation affect my current studies?

Purpose of Funding: This opportunity is designed to support the APE/ILE, so you’re already required to complete this as a graduate student. ELF funding helps you to specifically pursue a meaningful MCH experience.

Questions?

Contact Dr. Myriam Torres @ Myriam.Torres@sc.edu