Today@Dal

Education is often considered the cornerstone of personal and professional growth. Recognizing this, Dalhousie University offers an Employee Tuition Waiver Program aimed at fostering continuous learning and development among its staff members. This initiative not only supports the university's commitment to lifelong learning but also enhances the skills and knowledge base of its workforce.

Eligibility and coverage

The Employee Tuition Waiver Program is available to employees affiliated with Dalhousie Faculty Association (DFA), Dalhousie Professional and Managerial Group (DPMG), Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union (NSGEU), as well as eligible retirees. While eligibility criteria may vary depending on the employment contract or staff group, the program generally extends to any credit course offered by Dalhousie University's faculties.

Employees can enroll in both job-related and non-job-related credit courses, with tuition assistance being provided upfront. However, it's important to note that if the course is not job-related, the tuition assistance is considered a taxable benefit. Additionally, non-credit courses offered through the Faculty of Open Learning and Career Development are eligible if they are job-related. Courses equivalent to 0.5 credits (3 credit hours) each are also covered under the program.

For clarity on course eligibility, employees are encouraged to reach out to the benefits department at Dalhousie University for guidance.

Application process

To take advantage of the tuition waiver benefit, employees are required to follow a straightforward application process:

1. Consultation and Approval: Discuss the intended course of study with your supervisor and obtain approval.
2. Registration: Enroll in your desired program or course.
3. Completion of Application Form: Fill out the Employee Tuition Waiver Form, ensuring one form is submitted per course for each term.
4. Payment of Remaining Fees: While tuition fees are waived upfront, any remaining fees such as differential fees or student union fees are the responsibility of the employee.
5. Submission of Application: Submit the completed application form to Human Resources either in person or via email. Electronic signatures are accepted, provided they are from the official Dalhousie email address.

It's recommended that applications be submitted at least four (4) weeks prior to the course start date to avoid late fees. Late submissions may incur additional charges that will not be covered by the waiver.

Maximum Coverage

Each eligible employee can apply for a tuition waiver for a maximum of 12 credit hours (equivalent to 2 full credits) per academic year, ending on August 31st. This yearly maximum ensures equitable distribution of the benefit among staff members while still allowing ample opportunity for professional development and academic pursuits. To learn more about the tuition waiver program visit the tuition assistance on HR Development website.

Courses beginning soon

The Faculty of Open Learning and Career Development has a wide selection of certificates, courses and microcredentials that fit any career journey. Here are some of the courses starting soon…

Adult Education

• Theories of Adult Learning, starts March 1
• Evaluating Learning, starts March 1

EDIA

• Inclusive Communications in the Workplace, starts March 1
• Optimizing Diverse Team Performance, starts March 1
• Strategies for Implementing EDI Initiatives, starts March 8

Project Management

• Strategies for Effectively Leading Through Change, starts March 6
• Tracking and Forecasting Progress: Budgets, Baselines and Timelines, starts March 19     
• Project Procurement and Contract Management, starts March 21
• Engaging Stakeholders: Communication Strategies for Managing Expectations, starts March 27