DECEMBER 1, 2004

Mesa State College's Tuition to Remain Low

Grand Junction, CO - In contrast to the substantial tuition boosts requested by Colorado's flagship institutions, Mesa State College anticipates a tuition increase lower than the 5.5 percent proposed by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education.

"For the 2005-2006 academic year, we're looking at a more reasonable increase that will certainly be less than 5.5 percent," said Tim Foster, president of Mesa State College. "We're a student-focused institution, and, as such, we want to maintain affordability and accessibility for all people who have higher education aspirations."

The presidents of Colorado's public colleges and universities met with the Joint Budget Committee on Nov. 29 to discuss the current state of higher education funding. In light of ongoing budget cuts, Colorado State University chancellor Larry Penley asked for a 21 percent tuition increase and University of Colorado system president Betsy Hoffman requested a 13 percent average tuition boost.

"Over the past five years, Mesa State's tuition has increased by an average annual rate of 3.5 percent - not the double digit increases seen elsewhere," said Foster. "This type of small increase is necessary for us to maintain quality and to keep up with rising insurance, utility and maintenance expenses; however, we're still going to be sensitive to what college costs mean to the average family."

Mesa State's small tuition increase will also be used to retain and attract talented faculty members. Due to budget constrictions, the college's faculty members have gone five years with very modest raises. During that same time, Mesa State's enrollment has increased from 4,898 students in fall 1999 to a record enrollment of 6,181 students in fall 2004. This increase of 1,283 students has made the college one of the fastest-growing four-year institutions in the state. To accommodate the increased enrollment while still maintaining small class sizes, Mesa State College has added additional sections of high demand classes.

For more information on Mesa State College, contact the publicity coordinator at 970.248.1371.

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