Scholarship for Service Program
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)
Focused on information assurance education, the CyberCorps® 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 three programs that meet SFS criteria: The INI's M.S. in Information Security Technology Management (MSISTM), M.S. in Information Technology - Information Security (MSIT-IS) and the Heinz College's M.S. in Information Security Policy and Management (MSISPM).
Admissions for MSISTM | Admissions for MSIT-IS | Admissions for 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 percent 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
- Academic stipend per academic year (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. 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 website to learn more.
Additional Contact Information
For additional information and questions, visit the SFS website or contact Kathy Roberson, SFS Program Manager, at kathy.roberson@opm.gov or (210) 805-2423.