Michigan State University is launching the Spartan Teacher Promise, a forgivable loan program designed to reduce financial barriers for students pursuing careers in education. A collaboration between MSU’s College of Education and College of Natural Science, the initiative provides funding to support future teachers while addressing the growing demand for educators in Michigan.

Beginning in Fall 2025, the inaugural cohort of 20 students will include transfer students from other universities and MSU, as well as those enrolled in the Integrated Secondary Science Education program. The deadline to apply is May 16, 2025.

Students accepted into the program will receive up to two years of financial assistance covering tuition and fees for their junior and senior years, with the loan fully forgiven if they commit to teaching in a Michigan school for four years. Those who choose to teach in high-need districts or subject areas will have an accelerated loan forgiveness schedule.

“The State of Michigan is facing a crisis with regards to the number of highly qualified science teachers in our public schools. The number of students applying to our Secondary Science Teaching program at MSU has been in decline for more than 10 years,” said Gabriel Ording, director of the Center for Integrative Studies in General Sciences, a collaborating unit between the College of Natural Science and College of Education. “The program will work alongside existing state and federal financial aid to make teacher preparation more accessible. Recognizing that the early years of teaching can be particularly challenging, the program will also provide ongoing support and mentorship to ensure new educators are equipped for long-term success in the classroom.”

The Spartan Teacher Promise grew out of conversations held nearly two years ago between leaders from the College of Natural Science and College of Education, who were seeking solutions to declining enrollment in secondary science teaching programs. Supported by nearly $500,000 in initial funding from CISGS and matched by the College of Education, the goal is to demonstrate proof of concept and ultimately attract donors to help establish a permanent endowment.

“The Spartan Teacher Promise reflects our commitment to removing financial barriers and investing in the next generation of educators,” said Jerlando F. L. Jackson, dean of the College of Education and MSU Research Foundation Professor of Education. “By working together across colleges and with support from generous partners, we are building a model that will strengthen Michigan’s teacher workforce and create lasting impact in our schools.”

For more information on eligibility, requirements, and the application process, visit this page.

This story originally appeared on the College of Education website.