The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith has launched a Corporate Partner Program that will allow employees of participating school districts to receive a 50% tuition discount toward a Master of Education degree, with Fort Smith Public Schools serving as the program’s first partner.

“Our mission statement refers to robust community partnerships as we know that when we all work together, we all move forward. UAFS is committed to helping our community grow and be successful,” said Dr. Ray Green, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. “Launching this program with educators in the River Valley benefits everyone, as our K-12 teachers set the foundation for all that is to follow for our students. Through this agreement, our teachers get to further hone their skills, update their knowledge, and pursue ideas that excite them in the classroom. Students in our area school districts benefit as teachers bring new ideas and practices to the classroom. And finally, our regional employers know that those students will arrive at their businesses stronger and ready to thrive.”

The program is designed to help educators continue their education while reducing the cost of earning a graduate degree. The discount represents approximately $6,000 in savings across the degree program.

Employees must work for the partner school district and enroll in at least three credit hours (one course) each term to qualify.

UAFS’s Master of Education is a 30-credit-hour program, with core courses offered in a hybrid format, while concentration courses – in either English or curriculum and instruction – are delivered fully online.

“Our Master of Education program is crafted to meet educators where they are, allowing working teachers to personalize their graduate experience around the needs of their own classrooms, students, and professional goals,” said Dr. Kendra Able, Executive Director of the UAFS School of Education. “What our master’s students learn can be put into practice immediately, creating meaningful opportunities for professional growth while positively impacting student learning.”

Employees of participating districts can also receive a complimentary review of previously earned credit hours to determine how those credits may apply toward the degree.

Participating school districts do not pay to join the program, with the university both funding and administering the tuition discount.

Additional information about the degree, including course requirements, is available on the Master of Education program page.

Educators who want to enroll will apply to UAFS graduate school and select their school district on the application. UAFS will confirm eligibility with the selected employer.

Participating school districts do not pay to join the program, with the university both funding and administering the tuition discount. Districts interested in becoming partners may complete the Corporate Partner Interest Form to begin a conversation with UAFS