The Trinity Fellows Program at Marquette University is a prestigious 21-month graduate fellowship created to shape leaders who are passionate about social and economic justice. The program blends full-time master’s degree studies with impactful community service in Milwaukee-based nonprofit organizations.
Applications for the 2026 fellowship cohort close on January 15, 2026, and interested students are encouraged to apply early.
About the Trinity Fellows Program
The Trinity Fellows Program was founded to promote Marquette University’s long-standing values of service, justice, and faith. It supports future leaders who want to create meaningful change in their communities, especially through nonprofit work, civic engagement, and social innovation.
Fellows pursue a master’s degree in one of 16 approved academic fields, while simultaneously working with Milwaukee nonprofits on projects that strengthen communities and address urban challenges.
Academic Structure (21-Month Program)
Trinity Fellows are full-time graduate students who complete their master’s degree within two years. Participants must take three core Trinity courses, each focused on major urban and social justice issues:
- Social Innovation & Systems Change
- Urban Policy, Cities, and Governance
- Social Justice and Activism
Eligible Master’s Degree Fields Include:
Accounting, Applied Economics, Applied Psychology (Data Analytics), Business Administration, Civil & Environmental Engineering, Communication, Corporate Communication, Criminal Justice (Data Analytics), Educational Leadership, English, History, International Affairs, Philosophy (Social & Applied), Political Science, Public Service, Theology (Society specialization).
Also Apply For: The Caine Prize for African Writing 2026 (£10,000 Prize)
Nonprofit Placement in Milwaukee
Alongside academics, Fellows work with local nonprofits:
- 18 hours weekly during the academic year
- 40 hours weekly during the summer
These placements allow students to gain hands-on experience in community development, policy work, social services, and nonprofit management.
Benefits of the 2026 Trinity Fellowship
Financial Support
Fellows receive an exceptional support package:
- Full tuition scholarship
- Living stipend of $37,812.90 (paid bi-weekly)
- $800 professional development fund
- Health insurance reimbursement of $375 per semester
Participation Fees
Each Fellow contributes a $625 fee per semester, totaling $2,500 across the entire fellowship.
This fee may be paid using AmeriCorps vouchers, Peace Corps readjustment funds, or similar programs.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, or DACA recipient
- Meet Marquette University’s graduate admission requirements
- Have completed a full-time service program (e.g., Peace Corps, Jesuit Volunteer Corps, Teach for America, AmeriCorps) OR have at least 2 years of nonprofit work experience
- Commit to serving Milwaukee communities during the fellowship
Note: Service experiences affected by federal funding cuts after January 2025 are still considered. Applicants should include an explanation in the service section of their application.
Fellowship Term
- Program duration: August 2026 – May 31, 2028
- Number of fellowships: Up to 12 students will be selected
Who Should Apply?
This fellowship is ideal for individuals who:
- Are dedicated to social and economic justice
- Want to grow as ethical, accountable leaders
- Enjoy community service and nonprofit work
- Value self-reflection, lifelong learning, and purpose-driven careers
- Want to support Milwaukee’s nonprofits and contribute to a more just community
- Represent underrepresented groups in graduate education (strongly encouraged)
What Makes a Strong Applicant?
The selection committee reviews the applicant holistically. Competitive candidates usually:
- Show leadership potential
- Demonstrate a clear commitment to service
- Have strong academic readiness
- Possess nonprofit or community engagement experience
- Display curiosity, empathy, and personal accountability
Application Process (Deadline: January 15, 2026)
To apply:
- Apply to Marquette University Graduate School for your chosen master’s program.
- When prompted, select “YES” to indicate you are applying for the Trinity Fellows Program.
- Submit all Trinity Fellows requirements, including service experience details and recommendation letters.
The Trinity application deadline overrides your graduate program’s regular deadline.
Fellows who are selected must be ready to participate in program activities, community engagements, and in-person or online events throughout the fellowship term.
For more information, visit the Trinity Fellows Program.
