Because of the nature of our work, computer security is ubiquitous here in the Department of the Defense. Coming in to this organization with a solid foundation in security has been a huge help for me. I didn't have to "play catch up" at all, and my practical knowledge of the intricacies of computer security that I learned at Carnegie Mellon help me every day.
Eric Hough, Scholarship for Service (MSISTM, '06)

Scholarship for Service Program

Focused on information assurance education, the Scholarship for Service (SFS) program gives students scholarship funds in exchange for service in the federal government for a period equivalent to the length of their scholarship, typically two years. As a result of the SFS program, federal agencies are able to select from a highly qualified pool of student applicants for internships and permanent positions.

The SFS program is offered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and co-sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Carnegie Mellon offers two programs that meet SFS criteria: The INI's M.S. in Information Security Technology Management (MSISTM) and the Heinz College's M.S. in Information Security Policy and Management (MSISPM).

Admissions Information for the MSISTM. | Admissions Information for the MSISPM.

Obligations to the Federal Government

Recipients of the SFS must:

• Complete the degree program successfully and on time;
• Complete a summer internship with a participating federal agency; and
• Fulfill a one-for-one year commitment post-graduation. (Students in a two-year program must complete 24 months of working for a federal agency.)

If a student fails to complete the period of scholarship or post-academic period of employment, that student must repay a prorated amount equivalent to the length of the period not served. For example, if a student receives funds for two years and serves for one-and-a-half years, he must repay 25% of the funds received. Federal agencies must notify the SFS Program Office immediately when this occurs. That office is responsible for initiating the repayment process.

Learn more about SFS Places to Work.

Benefits to SFS Participants

• Full tuition scholarship ($71,400 for the INI's MSISTM program and $76,000 for Heinz's MSISPM program for students entering in Fall 2008)
• Academic stipend of $1,333* per month for 4 semesters in residence (on internships, students are paid by the agency they work for)

*These monies are taxable at the federal level only. Taxes will automatically be taken out of student payments. Amount per month is approximately $1,333.00. All expenses are to come out of that amount, and there is no additional housing or book allowance.

Learn more about SFS Funding and Costs.

Carnegie Mellon CyLab

As the organization providing oversight of the SFS program on campus, Carnegie Mellon CyLab provides complete details about the scholarship and the sources of guidance available at the university. Please visit the CyLab Web site to learn more.

Additional Contact Information

Additional information and questions can be answered by visiting the SFS Web site or by contacting Kathy Roberson, SFS Program Manager at kathy.roberson@opm.gov or (210) 805-2423.

SFS in the News

GCN: Scholarship program targets need for cybersecurity skills
Carnegie Mellon: SFS Student Enrolls in Forensics Track at the INI and works with CERT