Can I request time off to pursue professional development opportunities?
Yes, all full-time benefits-eligible employees are eligible for at least 16 hours of paid release time annually to pursue professional development. Release time is prorated if you work less than full time. Supervisors may approve more than 16 hours of paid time at their discretion. You must request approval from your supervisor before using release time for professional development.
What can I do if my supervisor is unwilling to release me to attend professional development opportunities?
Seek to understand your supervisor's concerns and offer solutions to address them. You may need to plan your professional development activities for a less disruptive time. Be prepared to show how the professional development would contribute to departmental objectives and enhance your value to the University.
I am an ancillary employee. Can I request paid time to pursue professional development opportunities?
The Continuing Professional Development policy applies only to full-benefits-eligible employees. However, supervisors have the discretion to support non-benefits-eligible employees in their pursuit of professional development. Discuss the matter with your supervisor, and be prepared to show how the professional development would contribute to departmental objectives and enhance your value to the University.
My supervisor says the department cannot afford to pay conference or professional development fees. Can the department really ask me to pay my own way?
Yes. Departments are encouraged to fund professional development activities that enhance employees' contributions to the University, but fees are not automatically reimbursed.
I am an appointed employee. Does the professional development policy apply to me?
Yes. The University's commitment to continuous learning and innovation applies to all full-benefits-eligible employees.