How to start the tuition assistance conversation with your employer

Pursuing a graduate degree can help you develop specialized skills and expertise that advance your career. However, returning to school requires a significant investment of both time and financial resources. For prospective students, concerns about financing tuition and related expenses are common. 

Fortunately, a variety of funding options can help offset the cost of graduate education. While scholarships and student loans are well-known resources, some prospective students overlook a critical opportunity: employer tuition assistance programs. Many students enrolled at the University of Washington (UW) Master of Science in Information Management (MSIM) take advantage of employer-sponsored benefits to support their return to the classroom. This article offers a practical guide to initiating a conversation with your employer about tuition assistance.  

Why it’s worth asking

Businesses typically view tuition assistance as a strategic investment in talent development, and for good reason: tuition assistance programs offer employers significant benefits, including improved employee recruitment and retention. Employers also realize tax benefits from tuition assistance programs. When you request this benefit, you aren’t asking for a favor; you are helping your employer invest in its future success.

The UW MSIM program is designed with working professionals in mind. Its focus on job-ready skills, in-demand specializations, ability to schedule classes around your work hours, and the option to earn your degree fully online lend weight to the case for employer-provided tuition assistance.

Preparing your request

Thorough research is key to helping you prepare a compelling tuition assistance request. Look into the following before starting the conversation with your employer: 

• Your company’s tuition assistance policy: Check your employee portal or connect with your HR department to determine the type of assistance your employer offers and the criteria you’ll have to meet to qualify.  
• Program information: Gather program materials, including curriculum highlights, tuition and fees and potential career outcomes.
• How the MSIM aligns with your current job: Consider how the MSIM aligns with your current role, or how it will prepare you for a more senior position at your current employer. 

How to make the case to your employer

Once you’ve done your research and are ready to approach your employer, draft a concise and professional proposal that outlines the details of the MSIM and makes the case for employer support. 

Creating a written proposal for your manager or HR team, in the form of a one-pager or slide deck, is a strategy that has succeeded for many prospective students. A formal proposal demonstrates initiative and indicates your level of commitment to contributing long-term value.

Your proposal should include:

• A program overview and timeline to acquire your degree.
• Program costs and support requested (both in terms of tuition reimbursement and scheduling accommodations). 
• A summary of how the degree will improve your job performance and broaden your organizational impact.
• Post-degree commitments, including an offer to remain with your employer for a prescribed length of time after earning your degree, to ensure your employer gets value from their investment. Note: Some employers require such a commitment as a condition of tuition reimbursement.

Other resources and next steps

In addition to employer tuition assistance, UW MSIM students benefit from MSIM scholarships, federal loans and external scholarships offered by private companies and other organizations. Many students combine financial support from multiple sources to cover the cost of their advanced degrees. 

Conclusion: Your growth is worth supporting

Seeking tuition assistance from your employer is a smart and strategic move that can save you money, bolster your skill set, and signal to your employer your ambition to augment your capabilities and advance professionally. Earning a Master of Science in Information Management from the University of Washington equips students with the skills to harness data and information to drive innovation and address complex organizational challenges.

Are you ready to take the next step? Start your application today or schedule a walkthrough to learn more about the online and residential learning experiences as well as the tuition assistance options available.