Did you know that working for the City of Philadelphia can help you go back to school, earn professional certifications, and reduce your student debt? 

City employees enjoy access to a wide range of higher education benefits, designed to support lifelong learning, career growth and financial wellness. Whether you are finishing your degree, exploring graduate school, or looking for help managing student loans, here’s how the City can support your journey.  

Tuition discounts through the Mayor’s Returning to Learning Partnership 

City of Philadelphia employees (and in many cases, their spouses, domestic partners, and dependents) can access tuition discounts of 10% to 50% or more, at more than a dozen local colleges and universities, including: 

  • Community College of Philadelphia – 25% off each degree or certificate course 
  • Drexel University – 10 to 54% off online programs (over 150 programs eligible) 
  • Temple University – 20% off most programs, plus an extra 5% if you are an alum 
  • University of Pennsylvania’s Fels Institute of Government – 25% off Master of Public Administration programs 
  • Harrisburg University, La Salle, Chestnut Hill, Eastern, Holy Family, Immaculata, Neumann, Rosemont, Saint Joseph’s, Widener, Lincoln University, and more 

These discounts cover undergraduate, graduate, adult learning, and online programs.  Each partner has its own eligibility rules and contacts.  Check out the full Returning to Learning info sheet for details! 

Student Loan Forgiveness 

The City of Philadelphia is also a qualifying employer for the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF), which means: 

  • If you work full-time for the City and make 120 qualifying payments under an income-driven repayment plan, you may be eligible to have the remainder of your federal student loans forgiven. 

Learn more about the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. 

Earn while you learn with the City College for Municipal Employment 

The City College for Municipal Employment (CCME), in partnership with the Community College of Philadelphia, is the first program of its kind that provides free workforce training and a pathway to City jobs.  It helps Philadelphians who may lack the necessary education or certifications while also offering upskilling opportunities for current employees. 

Highlights of CCME include: 

  • Career training in high-demand fields: skilled trades, healthcare, technology, business and administration, public safety, and STEM 
  • Wraparound services and support: career counseling, tutoring, internships, job shadowing, and access to financial and legal resources 
  • Strong partnerships with the Community College of Philadelphia, the School District of Philadelphia, Philadelphia Works, and others 
  • Direct pipeline into City employment with well-paying jobs that include healthcare, retirement, and opportunities for career growth 

For residents and employees alike, CCME is more than training, it is an opportunity to build a lasting career in public service. 

Build your future with the City 

City careers offer more than just a paycheck, they offer opportunity.  Whether you are just starting out, planning a career shift, or looking to grow, the City’s higher education benefits can help you take the next step! 

Explore open positions and learn more about working for the City!