Tuition Reimbursement

Tuition Reimbursement
Monica Castaneda
Comm/105
January 06, 2009
Rosemary Lodato

Tuition Reimbursement
Why take out student loans when you could earn a degree for free? You may be able to save thousands of dollars by asking your employer to pay for your education through a tuition reimbursement program.
Employers have a vested interest in making sure employees have the knowledge and skills that will help them succeed at work. By earning a degree in a field related to your job, you can become a better employee. Additionally, employees are more likely to stick with a company when they are relying on their employer to fund their education. Employers often see less turn-around and more employee loyalty when they provide tuition reimbursement for education. Many employers know that education is the key to on-the-job success. Thousands of companies offer tuition assistance programs. Even if your employer does not have a tuition program in place, you may be able to convince him or her to pay for your schooling if you can present a compelling case.
If your company already has a tuition reimbursement program or business-college partnership in place, visit the human resources department to learn more. If your company does not have a tuition reimbursement program, you will need to convince your employer to design a personal program.
First, decide what classes you would like to take or what degree you would like to obtain. Second, create a list of ways your education will benefit the company. For example:
• Your new skills will make you more productive at work.
• You will be able to take on additional assignments.
• You will be able to be a leader in the workplace.
• Your degree will improve the company’s professional image when you work with clients.
Third, anticipate your employer’s possible concerns. Make a list of problems your employer may raise, and think of solutions to each. For example:
Problem: Your studies will take time away from work....