Major League Soccer Players Association Announces New Tuition Assistance Program With Bellevue University
MLSPA partners with Bellevue University, a leader in adult learning, to offer up to $5,250 a year in tuition assistance to players
The Major League Soccer Players Association (MLSPA) has announced it is investing in its most valuable asset: its players, by providing funding for higher education. The MLSPA represents over 800 Major League Soccer (MLS) athletes with a mission of bettering their lives on and off the field.
Active and former MLS players will be eligible for up to $5,250 in tuition assistance per year when they earn their degrees from Bellevue University, a recognized national leader in helping motivated working adults earn a college degree.
“We are incredibly excited to continue to expand our educational investment for our players by partnering with Bellevue University,” said MLSPA Players Programs Director Connor Ford. “At the MLSPA, we believe in the importance of providing opportunities for our members to improve personally and professionally – pursuing a higher education is a crucial foundation for this. Bellevue’s strong reputation for helping people reach their educational goals through their various programs will be a great asset for the MLSPA moving forward.”
Active and former MLS players can choose from more than 50 bachelor’s degrees and 30 master’s degrees, all offered online. In addition to tuition assistance, players can take advantage of a generous credit transfer policy that honors associate’s degrees in full. Learners also benefit from a variety of support services, including academic advising, online tutoring, a writing center, and ongoing professional development webinars.
“We hope to be part of the success of the MLSPA in expanding opportunities for the players, their families, and employees who want to earn a degree,” said Dr. Mary Hawkins, President of Bellevue University.
“There are many paths on the way to bachelor’s and master’s degrees,” she said, “and Bellevue University understands that flexibility is key and that college has to fit into already busy lives. We are really excited to partner with the MLSPA!”
About the MLSPA
The MLSPA serves as the labor union and exclusive bargaining representative for all Major League Soccer (MLS) players, ensuring the protection of their bargained-for rights. Established in 2003, the MLSPA serves to promote players' collective best interests, amplify their voices, and represent them in their group commercial and licensing activities. The MLSPA is a democratic organization, run by and for players. To learn more please visit www.mlsplayers.org
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 60,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 80 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).