2025 applications are now open – book a free consultation today to get yours started! If you are applying for an undergraduate degree, please add our buzzword “UKApplication17” to your UCAS application; instructions can be found here.
This special scholarship is named in honour of AFL-CIO President Emeritus John J. Sweeney, the son of Irish immigrants, who dedicated his life to advancing the well-being of working people, making outstanding contributions to working people both in the US and internationally which will live on for years to come.
Value
The John J Sweeney Scholarship has a value of $20,000 and that is used towards the Scholar’s tuition fees for an MSc or LLM at Ulster University.
This scholarship is generously supported by funds raised by the AFL-CIO, the American Labor community, business and civic organisations, and individuals.
*Any balance remaining may be used to purchase study materials/equipment, support course-related activities and/or in support of the Scholar’s living expenses and travel costs.
Eligibility Criteria
The John J Sweeney Scholarship supports US students enrolled to study full-time on the following MSc or LLM at Ulster University:
MSc Peace and Conflict Studies
MSc Social Policy
LLM Human Rights Law and Transitional Justice
LLM Gender, Conflict and Human Rights
LLM Access to Justice
MSc Construction Management
MSc Management and Corporate Governance
MSc Manufacturing Management
MSc Business Development and Innovation
The Scholarship will be open to all US citizens who:
Have been offered a full-time place on one of the above MSc or LLM and have made a firm commitment to Ulster University during the admissions phase;
Are a US union member; or;
Have a familial connection to a US union member (mother, father, sibling, aunt, uncle, grandparent); or;
Can provide a reference letter from a union sponsor.
September 2025 applications now open. Deadline for submission is 30 April 2025.
We will be in touch within 24 hours to arrange your initial consultation at your nearest SI-UK office. If you are unable to visit us in person, consultations can also be arranged over Skype.