Resident tuition at the state’s two-year colleges will rise about 12 percent for full-time students and 11 percent for those taking classes part-time starting this fall.
Full-time students at Centralia College will pay about $458 more, for a total bill of about $4,000 yearly.
Students attending the state’s public four-year universities will face at least a 16 percent increase.
“It is unfortunate that we have increased the burden on students because those who will be impacted are those who in the long run will more likely be in position to stimulate and strengthen the economy,” said Jim Walton, president of Centralia College.
The Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges voted to allow the 12 percent increase at all two-year colleges.
The state Legislature authorized the tuition hike that follows a 12 percent increase levied last year. However, legislators did increase funding for students who receive State Need Grants to cover the new rates.
“Our budget has been cut so drastically over the last four years that the legislators knew our ability to serve students would be severely impacted if they cut us again this year. They chose not to do that and allowed for the tuition increase so we could continue to serve our students without further reduction in service,” Walton said.
Last year, the Legislature adopted a two-year budget that cut $110 million from the community and technical college system, but authorized tuition increases to help make up for the reductions.
The reduction in funding has caused colleges like Centralia’s to not fill all vacant positions, reduce course offerings and increase class sizes.
Centralia College is adopting measures to help students save money like an online library that offers more affordable textbooks and programs that allow them to move through school and into work more quickly.
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Amy Nile: (360) 807-8235
