Franklin University is marketing a new set of master's degree programs directly to Dublin-area employers, offering workers a path to a graduate degree in data analytics, information technology or cybersecurity for no more than $5,250 a year in tuition.

The Columbus-based nonprofit university announced its Earn + Learn Master's Degree Program on Aug. 16, through the Dublin Chamber of Commerce website. The program launches in 2027 and is built around a three-year completion timeline, with textbooks included in the tuition cap.

Why $5,250?

That number isn't arbitrary. Under IRS Section 127, employers can provide up to $5,250 per employee per calendar year in educational assistance tax-free. Franklin structured the program so workers whose companies offer the full tuition benefit could finish a master's degree with little to no out-of-pocket cost.

For Dublin, where major employers like Cardinal Health and OCLC maintain corporate headquarters and the I-270 west corridor hosts a concentration of tech and life-sciences firms, the pitch is straightforward: upskill your workforce without pulling people out of their jobs full-time.

What's included

Each Earn + Learn student gets an express application process, a dedicated cohort advisor, automatic course scheduling and personalized support throughout the program. No GRE or GMAT is required. Courses can be completed online.

Workers whose employers don't offer tuition assistance can still enroll at the discounted rate and combine it with financial aid, according to the announcement.

Info sessions in September

Franklin will host virtual information sessions on Sept. 1 and Sept. 10, each at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Registrants who can't attend live will receive a recording.

Interested employees or employers can contact Franklin at [email protected].