Fostering Excellence: Continuous Learning and Educational Assistance for MSU Support Staff

Written by Sharri Margraves, EdD, SHRM-SCP, Director of HR and Organization and Professional Development

Michigan State University stands as a beacon of educational excellence, not only for its students but also for its dedicated support staff. At the heart of MSU’s commitment to fostering a culture of growth and development is the twin approach of continuous learning and educational assistance benefits tailored for support staff.

Continuous learning is a cornerstone of personal and professional development, and MSU recognizes its transformative power. For support staff, engaging in ongoing education and using it on the job brings many benefits to the individual and helps create a dynamic and adaptable workforce that contributes significantly to the university’s success.

Career Advancement: Continuous learning helps us open doors to career advancement opportunities. MSU staff have access to many professional development opportunities, from workshops to specialized training sessions, allowing us to enhance our skills in preparation for future positions. Educational Assistance is available for non-credit opportunities such as conferences, seminars, and credit opportunities for those interested.
Enhanced Job Performance: Staying current with industry trends and best practices is essential for optimal job performance. MSU’s commitment to continuous learning ensures that staff are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills, directly impacting their ability to excel in their roles and contribute to the university’s operational excellence. Individuals can chart their own path using educational assistance or elevateU, the free on-demand source for technical and essential skill development and certification prep.
Increased Engagement: Continuous learning fosters a sense of achievement and personal satisfaction with a person’s job, and while resources are always slim—supporting continuous learning is essential for supervisors. Staff who feel supported in their educational pursuits are more likely to experience higher engagement, leading to a positive work environment and a deepened commitment to MSU’s mission.
Adaptability to Change: Adaptability is a key attribute in the ever-evolving professional landscape. Continuous learning instills resilience and the ability to navigate change effectively. Those empowered to participate in ongoing education will be well-positioned to embrace new challenges and contribute to the university’s culture of innovation.

Educational Assistance Programs

MSU exemplifies its commitment to the educational journey of support staff through robust educational assistance programs designed to remove financial barriers to learning. Please review your employee contract for specific details.

Tuition Assistance Programs:
- The Tuition Assistance Program at MSU is a testament to the university’s commitment to making education accessible. Staff can pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees with financial support, aligning their educational aspirations with their career goals. Attending MSU credit-granting programs means you will receive a waiver upfront on the cost of tuition.
- Tuition for non-MSU degree programs provides reimbursement according to your contract.
Non-Credit Assistance:
- Each employee group can take programs offered by HR’s Organization and Professional Development or IT Services, non-credit programs, seminars, and conferences. Most staff employee groups have $800 or$900 available annually for non-credit programs. APA members can utilize this amount toward credit classes.

How to access:

Log into the EBS Portal, select My Career and Training from the top navigation, and then select the tile for Courses for Employees at MSU (HR or IT Services classes), elevateU, or Educational Assistance System.

Programs run on an academic calendar in general, adjusting for variances in start/stop dates.
Beginning January 2024, APA and APSA employees are eligible for these benefits at the time of hire.

For more information:

MSU’s unwavering commitment to continuous learning and educational assistance for staff reflects a dedication to fostering a community of excellence. By investing in the growth and development of its employees, MSU not only enriches individual lives but also ensures the continued success and vibrancy of the entire university. Through continuous learning and educational assistance, MSU empowers its staff to excel in their roles, contribute meaningfully to the institution, and embark on a journey of lifelong learning.

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Photo by David Tett via Centre for Ageing Better