Ivy Tech increases tuition rates

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Ivy Tech Community College is increasing its in-state tuition rate by 4.9 percent, or about $5 more per credit hour.  The technology fee will also increase to $50 per semester.  Chancellor David Bathe said the cost for full-time students will go up about $150 a year.

"$150 over the course of a year may seem like a lot of money to them, but if we look at the education requiring skills and the ability to succeed either in a 2 year degree or transfer, in the long run an increase in their learning potential and earning potential is so great this will be a very minimal number," said Bathe.

Bathe said Ivy Tech still offers the lowest college tuition in the state, at less than $3,000 a year.  Students seem to think even with the increase, the education they receive is worth the price.

"On a GPA level I could go to a university but I can't afford it. Through Ivy Tech I'm able to do a lot of things financially that I wouldn't be able to going to a university," said Chris Salinas, Ivy Tech student.

"Education is education, so you have to make your sacrifices," said Miranda Baugh, Ivy Tech student.

Bathe said money from the higher tuition and fees is needed to support the increased enrollment numbers.  "Our growth and our ability to serve is really based on increasing the tuition," he said.

Bathe said the additional revenue will be used to hire additional faculty and student support staff.