At WellSpan Health, we believe in investing in our people. Education is one of the most powerful ways to grow your career, expand your skills, and strengthen our entire organization. That’s why we’re proud to offer two programs to support your educational goals: Tuition Reimbursement and the Education Forgivable Loan.
While both programs provide financial support, they work in different ways. Here’s how they compare —and a firsthand story from one of our own team members.
How They’re Alike
Eligibility: Both are available to Full-time, part-time, and PRN employees who’ve completed their 90-day introductory period.
Supervisor Approval: Both require supervisor approval and review of your performance record.
Commitment to Learning: You must be actively employed when starting your course and provide proof of completion within 30 days.
Financial Support: Each program helps with tuition costs, up to $5,250 per year.
How They Differ
Tuition Reimbursement
Reimburses Tuition Only: Covers tuition for college credit courses, academic degrees, or technical training related to WellSpan positions. Books and fees are not included.
Flexibility: You can take classes toward your current role or future WellSpan positions.
No Long-Term Commitment: Once reimbursement is received, you aren’t required to remain at WellSpan beyond the program requirements.
Process: Submit the Tuition Reimbursement Application, include your course invoice, and send it to Employee Programs within 30 days of course completion.
Education Forgivable Loan
Covers More Than Tuition: Provides 100% tuition plus certain eligible fees (excluding books, parking, or resource fees).
Targeted Degree Paths: Supports high-demand degrees such as Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, Imaging, Advanced Practice Provider, and others.
Employment Commitment: Participants agree to remain employed at WellSpan after graduation, based on the investment provided.
Process: Submit the Forgivable Loan Application and supervisor recommendation. Applications are reviewed by HR and the Recruitment Committee (approval takes 3–4 weeks).
Spotlight: Zenaida’s Experience
Zenaida Kutz
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Q:How did you first learn about tuition reimbursement and what steps helped you get started?
A:
I first learned about tuition reimbursement when my Physician Practice Manager, Marie McCune, shared her own experience and showed me where to find the information on the WellSpan intranet. She even guided me through the initial steps, making sure I had the right documentation, which made the process easy and efficient.
Q:What has been your overall experience using WellSpan’s tuition reimbursement program?
A:
I’m currently completing my Post-Master’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate, and I’m nearing the finish line. Tuition reimbursement has been a tremendous benefit — it met my expectations and significantly eased the financial burden of continuing my studies. I truly could not have pursued or completed this program without the support of WellSpan’s education benefits. I would absolutely use tuition reimbursement again.
Next Steps
Visit https://www.joinwellspan.org/benefits/ and navigate down to Educational Assistance. Or reach out to careers@wellspan.org.
At WellSpan, your growth is our growth. Whether you take just a few courses to strengthen your skills or commit to a full degree program in a clinical field, we’re here to help you take the next step.