Fort Hays State University proposes tuition increase of $94 per semester

Fort Hays State University is proposing a modest increase in tuition for the upcoming academic year, a decision reached through a collaborative process involving faculty, staff, and student representatives. The proposed changes, which were discussed during a recent Board of Regents meeting, aim to address the university's financial health while remaining mindful of student concerns.

The recommendation includes a $6.27 increase per credit hour for resident undergraduate students, translating to approximately $94 more per semester. Graduate resident students would see a slightly higher increase of $9.37 per credit hour, totaling just over $100 per semester. For online students, the increase would be $7.72 per credit hour, reflecting a 3% rise. This adjustment is part of the university's effort to align online tuition rates more closely with those of on-campus courses, which have been notably lower compared to regional and national averages.

The university's tuition recommendation committee, revitalized this year, played a crucial role in evaluating these changes. The committee, which includes senior leaders from various campus sectors, provided a recommendation that was accepted by the university president. This collaborative approach underscores the university's commitment to shared leadership and transparency in decision-making.

In addition to the tuition increase, the university is proposing no changes to its fees, resulting in an overall increase of 3.2% when tuition and fees are combined. This adjustment is seen as consistent with conservative estimates of inflation, and the university anticipates generating approximately $1.4 million in additional revenue before accounting for any changes in enrollment.

As Fort Hays State University moves forward with these proposals, the focus remains on balancing financial sustainability with the needs and concerns of its student body. The discussions reflect a broader commitment to ensuring that the university can continue to provide quality education while adapting to economic realities.