Policy Title: Continuing Professional Development

 

Effective Date: July 1, 2000
Approved By: President Likins
Contact: Executive Director for Human Resources

 

Policy Statement

 

An institutional commitment to continuous learning and innovation will enhance the University of Arizona's ability to fulfill its mission of teaching, research and service. In support of that commitment, all benefit-eligible employees shall be provided at least 16 hours of paid release time annually to pursue professional development opportunities. Release time shall be prorated for those with less than full-time appointments.

 

The focus and means of an employee's professional development activity should be guided by departmental objectives, available resources and the employee's career goals. Conferences, university-sponsored educational programs, academic coursework, internships and time for research or intensive reading are but a few of the ways members of our community may pursue professional development. While departments are encouraged to fund professional development activities that will enhance the employee's contribution to the university, fees for professional development programming are not automatically reimbursed.

 

Employees must receive approval from their supervisors before using release time for professional development. If an employee chooses to participate in professional development activities on his or her own time, the time spent is not considered as time worked and will not be considered for overtime or compensatory time.