How does the ACU and Caris Life Sciences partnership work?
In addition to the Caris Life Sciences Tuition Reimbursement program, you are eligible for a 10% discount on tuition (discount is not applied to the resource fee) across all ACU online programs. Additionally, our standard $50 application fee will be waived when you apply. All new online students are eligible for a variety of scholarship opportunities. Because tuition varies by program, you should connect with an admissions advisor to discuss tuition and additional resources available to fund your education. Learn more at acu.edu/caris.
What support will I receive as a student?
You are assigned a dedicated graduation team composed of an admissions advisor, student services advisor, financial specialist, and an academic coach who will walk alongside you through graduation. Additionally, you will have academic resources such as 24/7 tutoring, 24/7 tech support, subscription access to Grammarly.com, TimelyMD (24/7 telehealth services), Microsoft suite, Adobe programs, and RightNow Media.
How many hours will I spend on coursework?
You should expect to spend 15 to 20 hours per week on coursework when taking a seven-week class.
Do I need to be affiliated with a specific religion to attend ACU?
You do not need to be affiliated with a specific religious denomination to attend ACU.
How do I apply?
The ACU Online admissions team is ready to make sure all of your questions are answered and can even walk you through the application process. Contact one of our dedicated advisors or start your student profile now.
What are the admission requirements?
To be considered for admission, you must:
- Complete the online program application.
- Submit official transcripts showing earned bachelor’s from a regionally accredited college or university or the equivalent.
- Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above, probationary status may be granted for those with a 2.5 to 2.99 GPA.
- Write a purpose statement addressing career goals and fit with the program.
- Submit a current resume.
How does Caris Tuition Reimbursement work?
For students enrolled in ACU’s online Precision Medicine graduate programs:
- There is no annual limit. Reimbursement will be based on the grades you receive, up to 100% reimbursement. Reimbursement will be tax-free, up to $5,250 annually. However, any additional reimbursement will be considered taxable income.
- Caris will reimburse tuition for the following grades:
- A = 100% reimbursement
- B = 90% reimbursement
- C = 80% reimbursement
- D/F = 0% reimbursement
For students enrolled in other ACU online programs:
- Undergraduate courses will have a maximum reimbursement of $3,000 per calendar year.
- Graduate and Doctoral courses will have a maximum reimbursement of $5,000 per calendar year.
- Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral level reimbursement per semester is as follows for completed coursework:
- A = 100% reimbursement
- B = 75% reimbursement
- C = 50% reimbursement
- D/F = 0% reimbursement
- For non-letter grades: Pass = 100% and Fail = 0%
For all programs:
- Reimbursement is for tuition charges only. Fees are not included.
- Prior to every course, you must complete the tuition reimbursement sheet on Sharepoint.
- Before beginning the program, you must complete ACU’s Employer Assistance form, which is completed jointly by the student and a Caris HR representative.
How do I know if I qualify for tuition reimbursement with Caris?
- Eligibility begins after 6 months of employment.
- Please contact a Caris HR team member at clshrhelpline@carisls.com for more questions.
What am I financially responsible for once enrolled at ACU?
- Once admitted, you are responsible for a resource fee for every seven-week course you are enrolled in.
- Resource fees are not applicable in Research Application classes in the Master of Science in Precision Medicine program.
- Any tuition amount not reimbursed by Caris is due 60 days after the course start date. A schedule of these tuition reimbursement payment deadlines can be requested from ACU’s Student Financial Services department.
How do I access documents that I need to submit for Caris for tuition reimbursement?
- You will receive an invoice showing their tuition expenses.
- You can access your grades on the student portal at my.acu.edu, and then navigate to Degree Works in the menu bar at the top.