AHEC SCHOLARS proGRAM
What is the Scholars program?
The Nevada AHEC Scholars Program at High Sierra provides graduate-level students across Northern Nevada with unique educational and clinical opportunities. These include Rural Outreach Clinics (ROCs), an expanded curriculum to enhance knowledge for serving rural and underserved communities, Interprofessional Education (IPE) events, and more.
High Sierra AHEC is committed to offering students hands-on, engaging experiences that deepen their education and strengthen their connection to Northern Nevada communities. By prioritizing scholars who plan to practice in Nevada, we aim to address the state’s healthcare needs.
As funding allows, we offer scholarships to eligible students, empowering them to graduate ready to lead and make a lasting impact. Supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the Nevada AHEC Scholars Program prepares students with the skills and expertise needed to inspire change and improve health outcomes in underserved areas.
Scholars Eligibility
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Health Focused Disciplines: Must be enrolled in a health professions degree program, such as MPH, dental hygiene, MSW, or other health-focused disciplines.
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Commitment to Program Duration: Must commit to completing two years in the program.
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Commitment to Program Hours: Complete a total of 160 program hours within two years:
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80 hours of didactic (classroom or canvas modules learning)
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80 hours of experiential (hands-on community or clinical work)
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Dedication to Service: Passionate about using education to make a meaningful impact on diverse populations across Nevada.
High Sierra AHEC will work with program participants to ensure they have opportunities to complete the required hours.
Empowering Future Healthcare Leaders
For over two decades, High Sierra AHEC has proudly supported graduate students across Northern Nevada. Recognized nationally, this prestigious program offers a blend of didactic and experiential learning opportunities that prepare students for impactful careers in healthcare.
The program prioritizes students committed to staying in Nevada, addressing critical workforce shortages in rural and underserved areas. Scholars benefit from exclusive opportunities to enhance their connection to local communities.
Scholars benefit from exclusive opportunities to enhance their connection to local communities. Additionally, eligible participants may receive scholarships to help ease the financial burden of education, ensuring greater accessibility for aspiring professionals.
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KEY FEATURES OF THE PROGRAM
This two-year program covers eight core topics through a variety of educational and training activities designed to develop well-rounded, compassionate healthcare professionals. Engage in both classroom-based and hands-on experiences, creating a holistic and practical foundation for their careers:
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Interprofessional Education
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Behavioral Health Integration
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Connecting Communities and Supporting Health Professionals
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Virtual Learning and Telehealth
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Social Determinants of Health
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Cultural Competency
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Practice Transformation
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Current and Emerging Health Issues
By participating in this program, you'll not only advance your education but also contribute to the health and well-being of nevada's communities. As a graduate, you will emerge as a leader in service and innovation, equipped to address the challenges of modern healthcare with confidence and compassion.
Being a High Sierra AHEC Scholar was invaluable in shaping my approach as a health professional and contributing to my success as a Clinical Therapist. The most impactful part was the opportunity to continue learning while collaborating with diverse healthcare professionals. Gaining insight into how they think, what they prioritize, and how to work seamlessly together elevated my ability to build stronger therapeutic relationships and develop more holistic strategies that support the overall well-being of my clients.
Trent Mahler, LCSW