ASPPH/CDC Tribal Health Department Fellowship 2026-2027: Benefits, Eligibility & Application Guide
Are you a recent public health graduate eager to work in Tribal communities? The ASPPH/CDC Tribal Health Department Fellowship 2026-2027 offers a paid chance to gain real-world experience. This one-year program places fellows in Tribal Health Departments to tackle public health projects.
Program Overview
The ASPPH/CDC Tribal Health Department Fellowship Program started in 2025. It comes from a partnership between the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The goal is to build skills in Tribal Health Departments.
Fellows work on projects chosen by the departments. They get hands-on training and mentorship from Tribal public health leaders. The program includes professional development sessions. By the end, fellows build strong skills and help improve Tribal health systems.
Key Benefits
This fellowship provides several strong perks for participants.
Hands-On Experience
Fellows get field-based work in Tribal communities. This goes beyond classroom learning and lets them apply skills right away.
Expert Mentorship
Each fellow pairs with a Tribal public health mentor. The mentor offers guidance all year long.
Real Impact
Projects focus on improving health in Tribal areas. Fellows see their work make a difference.
Specialized Training
Workshops cover Tribal public health and cultural awareness. They build key competencies.
Financial Support
Fellows receive a $50,000 annual stipend. It also covers health insurance, training, and travel costs.
Fellowship Structure
The program runs from September 1, 2026, to July 31, 2027. It requires full-time work, mostly in person. Some sites allow hybrid or remote options. Relocation costs are not covered. Top performers may extend for another year if funding allows.
Placement Locations
Fellows can pick up to three sites. Choices include:
- Norman, Oklahoma
- Pueblo of Jemez, New Mexico
- Pembroke, North Carolina
- Box Elder, Montana
- Siletz, Oregon
- Winnebago, Nebraska
Each location has projects tied to local health needs.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must meet these rules:
- Hold a graduate degree in public health from a CEPH-accredited ASPPH member school.
- Finish your degree between May 2021 and August 2026.
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Application Process
Submit through the ASPPH Applied Learning & Training Portal. Needed items include:
- Resume
- Two letters of recommendation on official letterhead
- One essay for each placement you choose
- Proof of graduation date
- Academic transcript (official or unofficial)
You can update your application before the deadline.
Application Timeline
- March 25, 2026: Applications open
- April 30, 2026 (11:59 PM PT): Deadline
- May 1-5, 2026: Check eligibility
- May 6-14, 2026: Sites review applications
- May 18-27, 2026: Interviews
- May 28 – June 12, 2026: Select fellows
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ASPPH/CDC Tribal Health Department Fellowship?
It’s a one-year paid program that places public health graduates in Tribal Health Departments to work on real projects with mentorship and training.
What are the eligibility requirements?
You need a graduate degree in public health from a CEPH-accredited ASPPH member school, completed between May 2021 and August 2026, and be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
What benefits does the fellowship offer?
Fellows get a $50,000 stipend, health insurance, training, travel support, hands-on experience, mentorship, and chances to make real health impacts in Tribal communities.
When is the application deadline and how do I apply?
Applications open March 25, 2026, and close April 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM PT; submit via the ASPPH portal with resume, recommendations, essays, transcript, and proof of graduation.