August 11, 2006

Back to school: MGH's tuition assistance program

When September arrives, many MGH employees will return to school to advance their skills or pursue a college degree. Among the concerns of many returning students is how to finance their education. As an advocate for career growth and education, the MGH aims to help employees who are current or aspiring students meet educational costs through its tuition assistance program.

For Rose Sanon, RN, of Blake 13, the MGH tuition assistance program was exactly the type of opportunity she had hoped for when she left Haiti for the United States in 1988 seeking a better life. Sponsored by her sister, who was already living in the United States, Sanon says she arrived with the goal to pursue an education. She already has graduated from Roxbury Community College's nursing program and will start the University of Massachusetts's bachelor's degree in nursing program in September.

Sanon spoke about the benefits that the MGH tuition reimbursement program offered her and her family at a time when college tuition was out of reach. "It would be very difficult for my husband and me to support our two boys while I am in school," says Sanon. "The program was very helpful to my family and me. I encourage anyone who needs assistance to apply."

To be eligible for this program, employees must work at least 20 hours per week and have completed six months of continuous service at the time of application. Applicants must be enrolled in a basic education, certificate, undergraduate or master's degree program. Employees are reimbursed upon the successful completion of their course. Reimbursable expenses include tuition, academic and laboratory fees. Books, nonacademic fees and equipment are not reimbursable. The allotment of tuition reimbursement funds depends on the type of program the employee is enrolled in and his or her employment status. Full-time employees are eligible to receive up to $750 for certificate programs and $2,000 for degree programs. Employees should submit applications for tuition assistance well in advance of the first day of class.

To apply, submit a completed application, a copy of the official letter of acceptance into the program (one time only), a course description and documentation indicating cost per credit from the current school catalog. To receive reimbursement, employees must submit grades and proof of payment within 60 days of completion of the course or semester.

For more information or to download an application, visit is.partners.org/hr/New_Web/mgh/mgh_training.htm.