Here’s another headline to add to the almost never-ending news stories about Google and the Associated Press. But this time, instead of bickering over licensing agreements and the like, the two companies have decided to team up and help student digital journalists. They just announced the AP-Google Journalism and Technology Scholarship, a new national scholarship program “targeted to individual students creating innovative projects that further the ideals of digital journalism.”

Six $20,000 scholarships will be awarded to college sophomores, juniors, seniors and  graduate students for the 2012-13 academic year. The Online News Association will monitor the program and the scholars will be selected in Spring 2012.

“AP has long recognized how important and powerful new digital tools and knowledge can be in the hands of journalists,” Sue Cross, AP senior vice president for the Americas, said in the press release. “The scholarship program, part of our ongoing relationship with Google, will help build these vital skills in a new generation of journalists.”

“So many students have new ideas for news, and with the right encouragement they will become leaders showcasing what’s possible through digital journalism,” added Nilka Thomas, manager of Global Diversity and Talent Inclusion, Google. “We hope this program with the AP and ONA encourages innovation at the grassroots level while also furthering the opportunities available for women and minorities considering the fields of computing, technology, and journalism.”

Interested in applying? Applications are now open but just remember, a mandatory part of the submission is a project or concept that explains how your strategy will move digital journalism forward. It’s not too early to start thinking of ideas — the deadline is Jan. 27, 2012.

Read the full release.