Minority Fellowship PROGRAM 
Behavioral health and public policy program (BHPP)

ABOUT BHPP

The Behavioral Health and Public Policy program (BHPP) is a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to build policy leadership within the behavioral health workforce. In partnership with Bowie State University (BSU), BHPP prepares students, trainees, and practitioners to take an active role in shaping behavioral health policy.



Through intensive study and hands-on learning with educators at BSU, BHPP participants gain the tools they need to advance behavioral health at the policy level. Fellows complete the program with a deeper understanding of the policy implications—and solutions—to the behavioral health challenges underserved communities are facing.

AT A Glance

Format/Location: The program began with a two-day symposium, in which participants met with faculty members and identified topics for their capstone projects. Participants will continue their studies throughout Summer 2025 and complete their capstone project by Summer 2026.

Who Can Participate: Current Minority Fellowship Program fellows, IMFP fellows, and fellows from MFP sister programs can participate.

Program Components 

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In-Person
Symposium

Participants meet their peers, collaborate with faculty, and begin shaping their capstone project at the two-day symposium. 

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Public Policy Coursework 

All BHPP participants will complete intensive study in public policy topics, including policy analysis, planning, and evaluation. 

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Capstone Project
and Group Thesis

Participants are assigned to teams to identify and draft policy solutions to a behavioral health challenge.