By Scott Harvey
Commerce – The proposed increase in designated tuition at Texas A&M University-Commerce was one of the topics addressed at Tuesday's final University Community Update for the semester.
A&M-Commerce President Dan Jones, Interim Provost Gary Peer, and Vice President for Student Access and Success Mary Hendrix addressed faculty, staff and students Tuesday regarding an assortment of projects pertinent to the university community.
Earlier this year, the university held public hearings regarding the proposed increase, which was then projected to be between $2.50 and $25 per semester per credit hour. Officials now think that range may be between $11.50 and $13.50 per semester per credit hour. The actual increase will be dependent on legislative funding, and then considered for approval at the A&M System Board of Regents May meeting.
The university is also considering eliminating course fees for students.
According to figures released during two days of public hearings in February, 20% of any tuition increase is required to go toward financial assistance for students. The University's plan would allocate 45% of the proposed increase toward financial aid. The remainder to go toward replacing the current course fee structure; providing additional funds for the increased cost of operations, additional funding for minimum wage increases to state employees and support faculty/staff salary merit increases.
The proposed increase stems from rising costs, and shrinking state support.
The fall 2008 average tuition at A&M-Commerce ranked second lowest within the A&M System at $2,585, and the lowest among area competing universities. The average tuition cost for competing institutions is above $3,000.
Other topics addressed during Tuesday's University Community Update can be heard by visiting www.ketr.org/podcasts, and clicking on KETR Special Events.