The American Psychological Foundation (APF) provides financial support for innovative research and programs that enhance the power of psychology to elevate the human condition and advance human potential both now and in generations to come.

The APF Annette Urso Rickel Foundation Dissertation Award for Public Policy supports dissertation research on public policy that the potential to improve services for children and families facing psychosocial issues. Examples of eligible topics include but are not limited to issues with at-risk populations, prevention of child abuse, services for youth in the criminal justice system, effectiveness of school programs for children with psychological issues, using psychology in public policy to improve math and science education, and promoting healthy parenting.

Amount:
The scholarship amount is $1,000. 

Goals of the Program: 

• Encourage talented psychology students to focus on public policy issues 

• Encourage work that has the potential to improve children and family services

Eligibility:
Applicants must be graduate students in psychology enrolled full time and in good standing in a graduate program in psychology at a regionally-accredited university or college located in the United States or Canada. Applicants must also have: 

• Approval of dissertation proposal by the dissertation committee prior to application; 

• No record of having received either an APA or APF dissertation award

APF encourages applications from individuals who represent diversity in race, ethnicity, gender, age, and sexual orientation.

To Apply:
Submit a Dissertation summary, including a brief description of the research design and budget (three-page limit, font size no smaller than 11); letter of recommendation from a faculty advisor and current CV online on the APF Web Form by November 1, 2010.  For more information, visit the APF webpage.

Questions about this program should be directed to Kim Rowsome, Program Officer.