RiverHawks Scholar Program FAQs
How will students be selected?
Students will submit an application form (pdf). Complete application forms will be reviewed by the RiverHawks Scholar Application Committee. See (link) for complete guidelines per the application information.
Students are encouraged to re-apply for the next academic year if not accepted for the current year. Dates for next application period will be available soon.
What type of housing will be available?
RiverHawks Scholar Program students will be located in campus housing, our newest housing choice.
What class choices will be available to RiverHawks Scholar Program students?
Freshman Year First Semester
- Two course catalog courses, beneficial for all NSU freshman: University Strategies and Personal Health
- One RiverHawks Scholar Program class: Transition to College
Freshman Year Second Semester
- Two classes from course catalog or select from continuing education classes
- One RiverHawks Scholar Program class: This session will focus on enhancing independent living and academic success such as writing fundamentals, personal finance, etc. Specific class TBD based on first cohort.
Time limited job sampling to be introduced.
Remaining Three Years/Each Semester
- Two course catalog or mix of course catalog and continuing education classes
- One RiverHawks Scholar Program class
Time limited job sampling and internship opportunities will be included in each semester.
Students in the RiverHawks Scholar Program will participate in developing their own path plan based on Person Centered Planning. By the end of their sophomore year, students will be required to select an Area of Focus. This Area of Focus is similar to a major. Courses and internships after this point will be related to students chosen Area of Focus.
Who will be peer mentors?
Social and fitness mentors will be Northeastern State University students that will share similar interests and help enhance the social skills of the students in the RiverHawks Scholar Program.
What is the credential RiverHawks Scholar Program students will earn upon completion?
Upon graduation from the RiverHawks Scholar Program, students will earn a Certificate of Integrated Community Studies. The RiverHawks Scholar Program is a non-degree Certificate Program. However, students can choose to take For Credit classes. If students desire to enroll in For Credit classes, they must meet standard admission criteria per NSU admission guidelines. For Credit coursework will not be modified, and students will be expected to meet the same standards as other students taking the class.
What is the cost of the program?
Cost for the program for the is:
$23,500; Includes Academic Tuition, Fees and Housing with meal plan
These costs are subject to change. Projected costs do not include books or individual
housing supplies (towels, sheets, clothing, computers, etc.)
Is Financial aid available?
RiverHawks Scholar Program is an approved Comprehensive Transition Program through the U.S. Department of Education. Our students can fill out the FAFSA and apply for federal financial assistance.
Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services will pay up to $6,000 per school year, or $3,000 per semester for qualifying students in the RiverHawks Scholar Program. To qualify for assistance through DRS the student must have an assigned Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor.
Is there a specific person to direct the application to, if a signature upon delivery is preferred?
Applicants that are interested in designating they receive a signature upon receipt at NSU need to add: ATTN: Applications Committee c/o Pam Riggs.