VCOM Institutional Policy and Procedure Manual

VCOM Policies and Procedures

Policy #U003

1.

PURPOSE The purpose of the VCOM Employee Educational Aid Policy is to outline a program designed to provide opportunities for eligible employees at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) to advance their education. This program is intended to benefit both the employees and the institution by providing access to educational opportunities that enhance job performance, promote professional growth, and further the mission of the College. The program was established for reimbursed coursework to be completed through VCOM’s partner institutions (Virginia Tech, Auburn University, the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM), Bluefield University, and the Appalachian College of Pharmacy). The program enables employees to pursue individual courses or degree programs aligned with their current role or future career opportunities within the College. By encouraging continued learning and development, the Employee Educational Aid Program reflects VCOM’s ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of academic excellence, institutional advancement, and personal growth among its employees. OVERVIEW OF THE EDUCATIONAL AID PROGRAM The Employee Educational Aid Program is designed to support the professional development and continued education of eligible employees by offering reimbursement for approved coursework related to their current role or career advancement within VCOM. Under this program, employees may receive financial reimbursement for tuition and required course related fees upon successful completion of pre-approved academic courses from an accredited institution of higher education. Participation in the program must directly benefit the mission of the college and the coursework must be directly related to the employee’s job duties or align with a potential career path within the organization. Approval must be obtained in advance from the employee’s immediate Direct Supervisor, Division Officer, and the President. Key Features: • Covered Expenses: Tuition and required course-related fees from an accredited institution of higher education. All additional fees and costs beyond tuition and required course-related fees (e.g. books, travel, and supplies) are the responsibility of the employee. • Reimbursement Amount (pending approval and subject to budget availability): o One three-credit hour course per semester, not to exceed three courses or nine credit hours per academic year. 2. o Undergraduate tuition will be reimbursed up to $300 per credit hour. o Graduate tuition will be reimbursed up to $500 per credit hour. • Course Approval: All coursework must be approved in writing prior to enrollment. • Grade Requirement: Employees must achieve a course grade of B- or higher to qualify for reimbursement. As part of the Employee Educational Aid Program, employees who receive tuition and fee reimbursement are required to sign an Educational Aid Agreement (Appendix B). This agreement outlines the conditions under which educational assistance is provided and the employees’ obligations following reimbursement. Under the terms of the Educational Aid Agreement, employees enter into a service agreement and agree to remain continually employed at VCOM for a minimum of three (3) years following the completion of the last course for which they received reimbursement. The minimum period may be extended based on

VCOM Employee Educational Aid Program Policy and Procedures

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