Eligible staff members can enroll in courses that contribute towards their undergraduate or advanced degree in any field of study.

• Employees must apply to the Graduate School and be accepted.
• Degree candidates must adhere to the guidelines and requirements of the Graduate School for degree programs and must notify the Graduate School and Academic Advisors of any impending interruption in course work.
• Once registered for course(s), employees must email melissa_cote@brown.edu, Administrative Coordinator, to request that the Graduate Student Activity (access to all Graduate Student Council (GSC) social events) and Graduate Recreation Fees (access to the Nelson Fitness Center) be waived, otherwise they will continue to receive a bill and will be responsible for payment.

Employees can choose courses that are directly related to their current position at Brown. These courses help employees maintain or enhance the skills required for their role, and may be necessary either by law or by Brown's requirements. 

• The Benefits Office determines whether a course is job-related.
• Upon notification of EEP approval from the Benefits Office, registration information will be forwarded prior to the start of the semester with information on the registration process. Those enrolling in job-related courses will be allowed to enroll on a space available basis and will be required to obtain approval from the professor.
• Courses must fall under Brown's accreditation, as well as offer a grade and/or credit.

Important Dates

• Wednesday, January 24, 2024  - Classes begin
• Tuesday, February 6, 2024 - Last day to add a course without a fee (not covered by the EEP)
• Friday, March 8, 2024 - Last day to change a grade option
• Saturday, March 9, 2024 - (mid-semester) – Last day to drop a course without an EEP penalty

In September 2023, the EEP introduced a pilot program to include non-degree courses offered by Brown’s School of Professional Studies. This expansion provides employees with even more opportunities to broaden their knowledge and skills. There are no admission requirements for most programs and participants will earn a certificate of completion and a Credly badge.

Employees should submit the appropriate EEP application to educational_benefits@brown.edu. Please include EEP in the email subject line. Once approved, employees will receive instructions on how to register for their selected courses.

Learn more about the courses offered on the School of Professional Studies website or by emailing execeducation@brown.edu for more information.

Brown University is allowed to provide $5,250 in tax-free educational assistance per calendar year. Employees enrolled in graduate degree programs or non-degree courses through the School of Professional Studies will be taxed on any tuition that exceeds the IRS limit to be in compliance with IRS regulations.