Posted on April 19, 2007
The James Madison University Board of Visitors approved a recommendation by the University’s executive management to increase tuition by almost 6 percent for the 2007-08 academic year.
The decision, made at the March 30 meeting, is the second stage in a six-year funding model developed by JMU to determine yearly need. The model, which involves estimates of total revenue and expenditure for the year based on University and state-wide higher education goals, is currently in the process of being updated to coordinate with the state’s budget process.
“The funding model is used as a strategic planning tool and can be adjusted and revised by annual needs of the University,” said Assistant VP for Budget Management Diane Stamp.
This year’s adjustment calls for tuition to rise to over $3,330 a semester for in-state students enrolled in 12 or more credit hours. For the same credit hours, out-of-state students will pay almost $17,400 for the year, according to the JMU web site. The newest increase is in addition to last year’s increase of more than $200 per semester.
For many students, these increases seem natural.
“Prices for everything go up every year, it seems,” junior Heather Caldwell said. “I don’t think there is really anything else they can do.”
Most of the factors influencing the current model are not under JMU’s control. These include changes in enrollment, state funding and mandates, energy and utility costs, facilities costs for more than 100 buildings on campus and other additional external market costs, according to Stamp. The University must also take into consideration salary increases and benefit rates for over 1,000 full- and part-time faculty members.
“A lot goes into the University, which could end up increasing expenditures,” graduate student Sabrina Clore said.
Tuition includes academic, institutional and personal support for students. This support includes places such as the Counseling and Student Development Center, the Wilson Learning Center, the seventeen general computer labs, and other resources.
“They have to fit the need,” Caldwell said. “I’m sure most schools do it.”
The Board of Visitors approval follows a similar decision by the Virginia Community College system to increase its tuition by 6 percent as well.
“With the cost of living today, and additional students each year, it’s no surprise that the funds have to come from somewhere,” Clore said.
