Unlock your educational potential with UNC Charlotte’s tuition benefit programs

UNC Charlotte is committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development. Through a variety of tuition benefit programs, employees can pursue higher education, enhance their skills and achieve personal and career goals — often at little to no cost.

Tuition Waiver Program: Learn While You Work
UNC Charlotte’s Tuition Waiver program is available to employees in permanent positions who work at least 30 hours per week for nine months or more. This benefit allows eligible employees to enroll in up to three courses per academic year — spring, summer and fall semesters — at any of the 17 institutions within the UNC System, with tuition costs waived.

For Pariss Coleman, an instructional designer in the Center for Teaching and Learning, the program was a game-changer.

“I always knew that I wanted to pursue another degree,” said Coleman. “The tuition waiver benefit made it happen for me, and I’m very grateful. I chose to pursue a Ph.D. in educational leadership, because I knew it would be a great fit for my career goals.”

Jules Keith-Le, academic technology support analyst for the Office of OneIT and associate graduate faculty member, echoed that sentiment.

“The tuition waiver program made it both practically and financially possible to pursue my Ph.D. in educational leadership while continuing my career,” she said. “It was a unique opportunity to grow professionally within an organization that truly invests in its employees’ development.”

Keith-Le also earned a graduate certificate in instructional systems technology while working on a doctorate.

“I had already been working in that field for over a decade and wanted my academic credentials to align with my professional experience,” she added.

Lauren Pickard, senior student billing and receivable tech in the Office of the Bursar, hadn’t initially planned to return to school.

“Enrolling in classes was not originally on my mind when I accepted employment with the University,” said Pickard. “However, given the opportunity to complete my bachelor’s degree with an institution I’m proud to be part of, and at a reduced cost, changed my thinking.” She expects to graduate in May.

As of Sept. 16, the tuition waiver process has moved to a new system. While the steps remain the same, employees are encouraged to check out these helpful resources.

• FAQs About Tuition Waiver
• Tuition Waiver Guide
• Tuition Waiver Policies
• UNC Program and Degree Finder

Academic assistance: Tuition reimbursement for work-related courses

The UNC System offers Academic Assistance, a tuition reimbursement program for work-related courses. If approved and funds are available, departments may reimburse employees for academic costs, directly related to their roles, upon successful course completion. This applies to courses taken at accredited institutions via:

Traditional classroom instruction
Video-based learning
Distance learning
Web-based and eLearning platforms
Certain correspondence courses

Janet B. Royster Memorial Staff Scholarship Fund

Staff members may apply for the Janet B. Royster Memorial Staff Scholarship Fund, established in 2011 by the UNC Staff Assembly in memory of UNC-TV employee Janet B. Royster. This scholarship supports staff pursuing higher education across the UNC System.

Professional development: Start where you are

Not ready to commit to a full degree? That’s okay.

Keith-Le encourages employees to explore courses that spark their curiosity.

“Once you’re back in the classroom, learning new things, the next step will become clear,” she said. “I often wish I hadn’t waited my first four years at Charlotte before using my waivers — every course was a step toward the career and life I have now.”

Pickard also urges colleagues to take advantage of the resources available: “Using your educational benefits is a mutual investment that directly supports yours and the University’s success.”

Whether you’re pursuing a degree, sharpening your skills or simply exploring new interests, UNC Charlotte’s tuition benefits are here to help you thrive. Visit the professional development webpage to explore workshops, certifications, and more.