Queen’s University Belfast is looking for local Donegal students to apply for scholarship opportunities to study healthcare and innovative healthcare technologies. 

The Optum Healthcare Regional Scholarship Program aims to invest in a 21st-century health workforce and, crucially, promotes diversity in higher education by supporting young people from Donegal from less advantaged and non-traditional backgrounds. 

The Programme provides a dedicated scholarship to Queen’s valued at €25,000 for the term of the undergraduate course. 

Speaking about the scholarship, Director of Alumni Engagement and Philanthropy at Queen’s, Eddie Friel said: “The support provided from Optum to young people in Donegal opens doors to incredible opportunities. It not only eases the financial burden of education but also provides invaluable academic support for young people who may otherwise not have the access or opportunity to go on to third level education.  

Queen’s is committed to continuing to work with organisations to provide opportunities which benefit our young people and their futures.” 

Pharmaceutical Biotechnology student Aisling McFadden from Gaoth Dobhair, who was awarded this year's scholarship, said: "The scholarship has had a huge impact on my studies. The opportunities as an Optum scholar are endless and the financial benefits of the scholarship mean I can live comfortably without having to worry about money or having to repay a student loan in the future.

It has also affected my studies positively as I no longer have to worry about working long hours and due to this, I have more time to study and focus on my academic work. The support from Optum and the academic staff in Queen's is amazing and they are constantly making sure everything is running smoothly. I feel extremely lucky to be an Optum Scholar and would highly recommend all eligible students to apply as it is an amazing opportunity." 

“Optum Ireland is committed to helping cultivate a modern, diverse health workforce in Ireland,” said Erin Schmuker, Managing Director of Optum Ireland and UK. “We are honoured to launch this year’s scholarship program with our partners in Queen’s University.” 

Find out more about the scholarship here