There are two pathways for the future of student tuition at the University of Wyoming; the adoption of block tuition and, or, a 4% increase in tuition.
The Board of Trustees is said to put the two propositions to a vote on September 14-16, with Associated Student of UW creating Addendum A in approval for both.
According to Addendum A, “Adoption of a block tuition model will provide a great step forward in clearing up the question around cost of a degree.”
The title also highlights “15 to Graduate” or the idea that “the normalization and expectation that 15 credits hours per semester is a successful path to graduating in four years.”
Still, it is in my personal experience that “15 to Graduate” is not applicable to the student majority.
Although Addendum A provides that students who take at least 15 credit hours per semester have a higher GPA and also graduate “on time, if not earlier,” this does not take into account that these students are likely dedicated to school full-time.
For students who maintain a part-time job, are raising a family, or even performing basic life duties, enrolling in and successfully completing 15 credit hours per semester can be a hassle.
Especially when one considers that for every credit hour taken in college is another hour of study time.
While the idea of a “flat rate” for tuition could help students financially, I believe the recommended number of credit hours should be lowered.
This suggestion is based on my personal experience in that I am enrolled in school full-time at 13 credit hours and still work two part-time jobs in order to afford my tuition costs, with little to no time dedicated to extracurriculars and life necessities.
I do not believe my situation is unique, and that I speak on the behalf of students who may experience similar financial distress. Those who would frown upon the idea that a minimum of 15 credit hours is what it would take to reduce financial stress, but simultaneously perpetuate academic stress.
Although ASUW Addendum A does provide exceptions and appeals to the block tuition process, such as maintaining an internship or being a graduating senior who needs less than 15 hours to complete the academic year, I think the proposed minimum of credit hours will perpetuate increased enrollments equal to increased drops of classes moving forward.
On the other hand, a possible 4% tuition increase could be applied to all in-state and out-of-state undergraduate and graduate programs.
Programs exempt from this increase include only the Law School, Pharmacy Tuition for non-residents, and a series of graduate programs listed in Addendum A.
This means that the cost per credit hour, according to Addendum A, would be $166 per credit hour for in-state, undergraduate tuition. Other numbers correspond to $692 to out-of-state undergraduates, and $323 and $967 for resident and non-resident graduate education respectively.
The revenue from the increase would be split evenly between student success programs approved
by ASUW and salary raises, particularly for faculty.
Of the two propositions, it is my understanding and belief that although a 4% tuition increase will have a greater financial toll on students, it will lower their stress levels overall in comparison to the adoption of block tuition.
