The Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP) is proud to announce the launch of the Rural Healthcare Student Awards, an expanded program recognizing Alberta students who are committed to improving healthcare in rural and remote communities.
Building on the success of the former Rural Medical Student Awards, this refreshed program now includes ten annual awards valued at $5,000 each, available to both medical students and students in other healthcare disciplines such as nursing, midwifery, pharmacy, and physiotherapy.
“By expanding eligibility beyond medicine, we’re recognizing that high-quality healthcare in rural Alberta depends on a team,” says Tracy Sopkow, CEO of RhPAP. “These awards reflect our commitment to supporting the full spectrum of healthcare professionals who help keep healthcare close to home.”
The Rural Healthcare Student Awards aim to encourage students with rural roots or a demonstrated interest in practising in rural Alberta by supporting their early education and strengthening their connection to rural practice. The awards are designed to reduce financial barriers, inspire students to explore rural placements, and build relationships with rural mentors and communities. Through this program, RhPAP hopes to nurture the next generation of healthcare professionals who understand the unique rewards and challenges of delivering care in rural settings.
Up to four awards will be offered to first- and second-year medical students enrolled at the University of Alberta (including the Northern Alberta Medical Program) and the University of Calgary.
Up to six awards will be offered to first- and second-year healthcare students enrolled full-time in Alberta programs at least two years in length and leading to accreditation in a patient-facing, regulated health discipline.
Applications open October 31, 2025, and close February 1, 2026.
“Rural communities thrive when people who understand the unique opportunities and challenges of rural practice return to serve,” says Emily Johnson, program lead at RhPAP. “These awards not only reduce financial barriers for students but also strengthen the connection between rural communities and Alberta’s future healthcare workforce.”
The new awards reflect RhPAP’s broader mission to support health professionals and communities throughout the healthcare career journey, from high school to practice.
For eligibility criteria and to apply, visit RhPAP.ca/RHSA.
Media Contacts:
Emily Rachel
Advisor, Marketing & Communications
Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP)
Tel: 587-321-0652
emily.rachel@rhpap.ca
Emily Johnson
Grants Associate, Strategy & Stakeholders
Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP)
Emily.Johnson@rhpap.ca