If you had to pull 15 percent less from your pocket to take a class this summer, would you be interested? UNM Associate Provost for Academic Affairs Wynn Goering is looking to draw more students into the classroom during summer term, and he thinks a price break (based on fall 2006 tuition), is a great way to do it.
“We have extensive survey data that shows students are especially sensitive to tuition costs in the summer,” Goering said, noting that little scholarship aid is available then. “Students told us pretty clearly that even a modest price break would make a difference.”
Course availability is another key factor, so the university increased operational support for summer classes by nine percent.
“We’re doing everything we can to help students make progress during the summer term,” Goering said.
Summer enrollment has become increasingly important for a number of reasons, according to Goering. From the university’s standpoint, it’s a cost-effective way to make use of laboratories, classrooms and other facilities that otherwise go unused. Earning a few credits over the summer can save students money by quickening their route to graduation.
“The more college costs rise, the more critical it is that students finish their studies in a timely fashion,” he said.
This is an experiment for the university, which will have to attract more summer students to make the discount worthwhile. But Goering believes it’s a chance worth taking.
“We like to say we’re committed to student success. Making summer more affordable is a good way to prove we mean what we say.”
Media Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627; e-mail: kwent2@unm.edu
Posted by scarr at May 8, 2006 01:00 PM