College, Scholarship & Exploration Resources
United Methodist Scholarships & Resources
Scholarship funds are typically financial supports that do not require repayment. Different organizations have specific requirements for applying for scholarships. The following resources include scholarships, grants, and other organizations that offer support for college students.
United Methodist Higher Education Foundation
Attention students! The United Methodist Higher Education Foundation awards more than $2 million in scholarships every year to students attending UM-related schools. Higher education is possible! Visit https://umhef.org to learn more. #UMHEF #scholarships Apply by March 1, 2026 
Global Board of Higher Education and Ministry Scholarships
One major obstacle to students preparing for their calling at a college or university is a lack of financial resources. [GBHEM] is here to connect you with the resources you need to claim and flourish in your calling through higher education. Apply by March 6, 2026 
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Other Scholarships & ResourcesState of Maryland Financial Aid Grants & Scholarships
Visit the Maryland Higher Education Commission website here. 5 Places to Find Local Scholarships (from HBCU Money Guide) Here are 5 places in every neighborhood or surrounding area that offer scholarships:
BWCUMC Campus MinistriesAre you attending a college in the Baltimore-Washington UMC (BWCUMC) region? Several campus ministries (listed below) in our area offer community and support to college students in the region. Learn more about campus ministries here: https://www.bwcumc.org/cm/
American University Bowie State University Frostburg State University Howard University Morgan State University University of Maryland College Park |
Exploration: Are you exploring a call to ministry?
The Board of Ordained Ministry has shared resources for those exploring a call to ministry. Learn more here. Please email [email protected] for more information and additional guidance.
The Baltimore-Washington Conference Lay Servant Academy is dedicated to equipping leaders among the laity of the church. The Academy offers courses approved by UMC Discipleship Ministries as credit-bearing for those in the Certified Lay Servant, Certified Lay Speaker, and Certified Lay Minister tracks; however, the courses are open to all. Learn more.
Are you ready to pursue deeper, graduate-level theological study? Learn more about pursuing a Master of Arts, Master of Theological Studies (or dual MA/MTS with American University), Master of Divinity, or Doctor of Ministry at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC.
The Baltimore-Washington Conference Lay Servant Academy is dedicated to equipping leaders among the laity of the church. The Academy offers courses approved by UMC Discipleship Ministries as credit-bearing for those in the Certified Lay Servant, Certified Lay Speaker, and Certified Lay Minister tracks; however, the courses are open to all. Learn more.
Are you ready to pursue deeper, graduate-level theological study? Learn more about pursuing a Master of Arts, Master of Theological Studies (or dual MA/MTS with American University), Master of Divinity, or Doctor of Ministry at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC.
Guidance for College, University, and Trade School Students
Proverbs 1:5 "Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance"
~Let the wise listen and add to their learning
We know that college "isn’t for everyone”, but knowledge is and a college or trade school education can provide an environment that fosters intellectual growth and the pursuit of knowledge. Many colleges provide a structured curriculum, expert faculty, and resources that enable students to delve deep into subjects, expanding their understanding and expertise. For those exploring college and future trades, vocations, and aspirations, consider that college encourages continuous learning and the accumulation of knowledge.
~and let the discerning get guidance
Students can be exposed to diverse perspectives, ideas, and experiences, which can challenge their assumptions, broaden their understanding of the world, and ultimately deepen their faith. Faith can increase as this exposure prayerfully leads to greater discernment. By engaging with different viewpoints and critical thinking, students develop the ability to analyze information, make informed decisions, and navigate complex situations with wisdom.
In essence, a college education provides a platform for individuals to grow in wisdom and discernment, equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary for success in their personal and professional lives.
~Let the wise listen and add to their learning
We know that college "isn’t for everyone”, but knowledge is and a college or trade school education can provide an environment that fosters intellectual growth and the pursuit of knowledge. Many colleges provide a structured curriculum, expert faculty, and resources that enable students to delve deep into subjects, expanding their understanding and expertise. For those exploring college and future trades, vocations, and aspirations, consider that college encourages continuous learning and the accumulation of knowledge.
~and let the discerning get guidance
Students can be exposed to diverse perspectives, ideas, and experiences, which can challenge their assumptions, broaden their understanding of the world, and ultimately deepen their faith. Faith can increase as this exposure prayerfully leads to greater discernment. By engaging with different viewpoints and critical thinking, students develop the ability to analyze information, make informed decisions, and navigate complex situations with wisdom.
In essence, a college education provides a platform for individuals to grow in wisdom and discernment, equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary for success in their personal and professional lives.
Stay the Course: How to Keep Your Faith in College
Some Practical Advice on Keeping Your Faith Resilient while at University
Contact [email protected] for assistance with any of the resources found on this page.
Some Practical Advice on Keeping Your Faith Resilient while at University
Contact [email protected] for assistance with any of the resources found on this page.
Title: Thankful
Date: 1894
Artist: Tanner, Henry Ossawa, 1859-1937
Notes: Henry Ossawa Tanner was the first internationally acclaimed African American artist. His art reflects the influence of the AME church, his father, and his own views on race and education. In this painting, he counters common African American stereotypes of his day, which often offensively misrepresented African Americans and their belief systems.
While many mainstream churchgoers believed the African American faith to be overly emotional and expressive, this painting stands in stark contrast to those kinds of caricatures. This piece shows an older gentleman with (perhaps) his grandson praying before a meal. In their impoverished state, they have their heads bowed in a dignified pose as they participate in a common daily ritual. It is a simple, yet effective display of two devoted subjects giving thanks for that which they do possess.
The Art Bridges Foundation owns the artwork. See https://artbridgesfoundation.org/search?instant_search%5Bquery%5D=Henry%20Tanner/
Tanner, Henry Ossawa, 1859-1937. Thankful, from Art in the Christian Tradition, a project of the Vanderbilt Divinity Library, Nashville, TN. https://diglib.library.vanderbilt.edu/act-imagelink.pl?RC=56998 [retrieved July 26, 2025]. Original source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_Thankful_Poor,_1894._Henry_Ossawa_Tanner.jpg.