Graduate study enhances advanced skills and knowledge that employers value, often leading to higher-responsibility, higher-paying jobs. However, earning a graduate degree requires a significant investment of time, effort, and financial resources. For many working professionals, the monetary commitment can feel like an obstacle.
Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Scholarships, grants, and loans all reduce or defray expenses. Employer-sponsored tuition assistance offers yet another appealing option. Nearly half of all American employers—and 80% of all large employers—offer some form of tuition assistance benefits.
This article discusses how employer tuition benefits work, how to ask your employer about them, and what additional financial aid options are available through Boston College.
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How Employer Tuition Benefits Work
Tuition assistance programs benefit both employees and employers; the latter gain from workers’ enhanced skills and improved morale as well as higher employee retention rates. The benefits are understandably popular, explaining why so many employers offer them.
Tuition assistance or reimbursement programs typically work in one of two ways:
- Tuition assistance: The employer pays the school directly, sometimes through a formal partnership.
- Tuition reimbursement: The employee pays upfront, and the employer reimburses the cost after coursework is completed, often contingent on meeting performance or grade requirements.
If you’re unsure whether your organization offers tuition support, check with your HR department. You may have access to funding you weren’t aware of.
Many Boston College Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) students already use employer education benefits to help fund their degrees. Perhaps you could, too.
Making the Case to Your Employer
The first step is to understand the available benefits. Ask your HR representative these questions:
- What are the eligibility requirements? Do they vary depending on your job title, tenure, or the type of degree program?
- How much financial support is available? Is there a cap per course, term, or year?
- What costs are covered? Does the benefit apply only to tuition, or does it include books, fees, and other expenses?
- How is the funding distributed? Will the payment go directly to the school, or will you be reimbursed? If reimbursed, what’s the timeline?
- Will you be required to remain with the company for a certain period after completing your degree?
Next, prepare a clear, well-organized proposal to share with your employer. Your request for tuition support should include:
- An overview of BC Woods Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) program, emphasizing its credibility and relevance
- An explanation of how the program supports your professional development and long-term career goals
- A clear enumeration of benefits to your employer: how your new skills and knowledge will enhance your current role, contribute to future responsibilities, or support broader organizational goals
- A detailed cost breakdown, including tuition, fees, books, and materials, along with the amount of financial assistance you’re requesting
- Information about any additional funding sources or scholarships you’ve received or plan to apply for
This approach demonstrates initiative, aligns your goals with your organization’s priorities, and increases your chances of securing employer support for your MHA at BC Woods.
Using Employer Tuition Benefits at Boston College
Because most tuition reimbursement plans require upfront payment, BC Woods offers flexible payment plans to help students spread costs over time, bridging the gap while awaiting reimbursement.
Prospective students should:
- Confirm their tuition benefit details with their HR team
- Ask about any restrictions, such as reimbursement caps, grade requirements, or work commitments
Other Financial Aid Options
If your employer’s tuition benefit doesn’t cover the full cost of your degree, consider these common funding options:
- External scholarships and grants
- Federal financial aid
- Personal savings or investments
You must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to qualify for federal aid. Your FAFSA application is used to determine your eligibility for need-based assistance.
Why It’s Worth the Investment
The Boston College online MHA is designed for working professionals who balance careers, life, and academics. With seven-week courses, flexible scheduling, and no application fee, the program delivers expertise and a valuable credential without interrupting professional advancement. Coursework covers:
- Health systems and service delivery
- Emerging technologies in healthcare
- Public policy and health advocacy
- Economics and financial management
- Strategic planning and leadership development
- Quality improvement and patient safety
- Legal, regulatory, and ethical frameworks
Earn your MHA in one to two years and develop leadership-ready skills for a fast-changing healthcare industry.
Take the Next Step with Confidence
Graduate school is a big investment. It is natural to consider the time and financial investment it requires.
Many BC MHA students initially felt that way. But with help from employer tuition benefits, federal aid, and flexible payment plans, they found a way forward. So can you.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule a program overview and begin this journey. You will be supported every step of the way from the admission process through graduation.