Walmart College Program in 2023: Your Complete Guide to Earning a Degree Debt-Free
Are you a Walmart employee looking to earn a college degree? If so, you’re in luck! Walmart’s Live Better U (LBU) program offers associates the incredible opportunity to graduate debt-free.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about Walmart’s tuition benefits. You’ll learn about the schools, programs, application process, and tips for balancing work and earning your degree. Let’s get started!
An Overview of Walmart‘s Tuition Assistance Program
Walmart recently expanded its LBU program to cover 100% of tuition and books for over 1.5 million U.S. Walmart and Sam’s Club associates. This investment in employees’ education totals nearly $$1 billion over the next five years.
Previously, Walmart offered associate’s degrees for just $1 per day in fees. By eliminating any costs, they’ve removed financial barriers and provided access to higher education opportunities employees may not have otherwise had.
Why is Walmart making this significant investment in its workforce? Research shows that employees who take advantage of tuition reimbursement programs typically stay with companies longer. Walmart wants to retain and develop talent within the organization.
Offering debt-free college also attracts new hires in a competitive labor market. And a more educated workforce results in higher productivity and promotion rates down the road.
In other words, Walmart still saves money even after spending $1 billion on tuition! The cost of employee turnover is far greater than the investment in developing talent.
What‘s Included in Walmart‘s Live Better U Program
The LBU program, administered through a partnership with Guild Education, offers more than just free tuition. Here’s an overview of the education benefits available:
✔️ 100% tuition coverage at any of the 10 LBU partner schools
✔️ Free textbooks
✔️ Options to complete high school, earn a college prep credential, pursue associate‘s or bachelor‘s degrees, and gain professional certificates
✔️ Access to academic coaches who assist with everything from choosing a program to applying for graduation!
Walmart College Program Eligibility: Who Can Participate?
The program is available to all Walmart associates in the U.S. regardless of full-time or part-time status. You’re eligible starting on day one of employment – there are no tenure requirements.
LBU is primarily open to Walmart’s hourly store associates. Some salaried associates are also invited to join, like field facility workers.
Unfortunately, temporary or seasonal associates are not eligible for the program. And if you already have an associate‘s or bachelor‘s degree, you cannot earn a second degree through LBU.
Exploring Walmart‘s Partner Schools and Degree Options
Walmart partners with the following 10 accredited non-profit schools to deliver the LBU programs. All were chosen for their robust online offerings catered to working adult learners:
| School | Program Options |
|---|---|
| Johnson & Wales University | Associate‘s and Bachelor‘s Degrees in Business Administration – Retail Management |
| The University of Arizona | 30+ Online Bachelor‘s Programs including Supply Chain Management and Health Sciences |
| The University of Denver | Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration |
| Pathstream | Skills training programs in fields like computer programming, cybersecurity, data analysis and medical billing |
| Brandman University | Bachelor‘s Degrees in Business, Computing, Arts, and Sciences |
| Penn Foster | Career certificates, diplomas, and associate‘s degrees in fields like automotive repair, veterinary studies, culinary arts, and more |
| Purdue University Global | Associate‘s and Bachelor‘s Degrees in Business, IT, Healthcare, Criminal Justice, and Early Childhood Development |
| Southern New Hampshire University | 200+ Online Associates and Bachelor‘s Degrees and Certificate programs |
| Wilmington University | Bachelor‘s Degrees in Management, Accounting, Human Resources Management, Organizational Leadership and more |
| Voxy EnGen | Interactive English language learning platform |
As you can see, there are tons of options for earning a career-oriented degree or gaining skills for advancement. Programs cover hot fields like business management, supply chain, IT, healthcare, manufacturing, and more.
Most programs are entirely online with flexible schedules catered to working adults. And you can attend part-time if needed to accommodate your work schedule.
How to Enroll in Walmart‘s College Program
Ready to get started? You can enroll in Live Better U through the Guild Education platform.
The enrollment process includes:
Browsing the available programs at partner schools
Submitting an application
Providing your Walmart employee ID
Completing any entrance assessments required by your chosen school
Pro Tip: Take time crafting your personal statement for stronger applications. Emphasize how earning this degree will help you advance your career goals.
Once accepted, an academic coach from Guild will walk you through orientation, registering for classes, and getting started on your educational journey!
Tips for Balancing Work, School, and Life
Earning a degree while working full-time is challenging. Here are some tips to balance your many responsibilities:
Get organized. Use a planner to block out study time well in advance of due dates.
Find time pockets. Use small blocks of time between shifts or during lunch for reading, assignments, or discussion posts.
Set alerts. Use phone reminders for assignment due dates, online class times, etc.
Get support. Talk to family and friends about helping more with household tasks during this busy season of life.
Designate study spaces. Choose quiet spots conducive to learning like a library or spare bedroom.
Prioritize self-care. Make time for healthy habits like exercise, nutritious eating, and relaxing activities. Don‘t burn out!
You’ve got this! Stay focused on your education goals and use all the resources available to you through Guild and your chosen university.
Conclusion: Earn Your Degree Debt-Free with Walmart‘s College Program
Walmart‘s investment in its workforce through the LBU program provides life-changing opportunities for employees to graduate college debt-free.
With 100% tuition coverage, a variety of programs to choose from, and academic support along the way, this benefit makes earning a degree incredibly accessible.
If you want to advance your career, increase earning potential, and avoid student loans, be sure to take advantage of this amazing program!
Feel free to reach out with any other questions about getting started with Live Better U. Congratulations on investing in your education and future!
