Online degree candidates may apply for scholarships

Online degree candidates may apply for scholarships

Marriott, the United Negro College Fund and the Hispanic College Fund have opened the application process for scholarships for students studying hospitality at any accredited on-campus or online college or university.

Eligible students who are enrolled in or entering their first year in a hospitality-related degree programs may apply for the Marriot Scholars Program, which awards $9,000 scholarships to students of diverse backgrounds.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens seeking a degree in fields such as hospitality, hotel management, culinary arts or food and beverage services. Candidates must also have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Awardees who maintain their eligibility may be able to renew the awards for up to four years.

Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of the United Negro College Fund, said the scholarships aim to help prospective professionals "prepare for careers in the fast-growing hospitality industry and produce the college-educated professionals that the industry needs to grow and to contribute to the communities it serves."

Qualified students who will be enrolled in similar campus-based or online degree programs may apply for the awards through February 16, 2010, on either of the foundations' websites.