Board Increases Tuition and Fees to Help Offset $6.4 Million Shortfall

During a specially-called meeting Monday, March 28, the Midwestern State University Board of Regents unanimously approved a 4-percent increase in tuition and fees beginning with the Fall 2011 semester. The increase allows the university to maintain its commitment to its students that, apart from student-approved fees, it will not increase tuition and fees more than 5 percent in any academic year.

 "One of MSU's ongoing goals has been to set the total cost to students at or below the state average. It is in the university's best interest and that of our students to offer a quality education at a reasonable cost.  The 4-percent increase will allow us to do this," stated MSU President Jesse W. Rogers.

The university anticipates a $6.4 million dollar shortfall in state funding for the upcoming biennium.  In addition to the 4-percent increase, the university will also make reductions in its operating budget. Regents reviewed a draft proposal that will eliminate an estimated $4 million from the budget over the next two years.  Regents will approve a final budget for the 2011-2012 school year during their August board meeting.

Below is a breakdown of tuition and fees for the Fall 2011 semester:

         Designated tuition will increase $4.35 per semester credit hour (from the current $96.55 per semester credit hour to $100.90 per semester credit hour).

         An energy surcharge fee will increase by $1 per semester credit hour (from the current $8 per semester credit hour to $9 per semester credit hour).

         The library fee will increase by $1 per semester credit hour (from the current $7 per semester credit hour to $8 per semester credit hour).

         A student approved intercollegiate athletics fee will increase by $1 per semester credit hour (from the current $9 per semester credit hour to $10 per semester credit hour). The athletic fee is capped at $120 per semester per student.