NAU brings predictability to education costs with guaranteed tuition proposal

FLAGSTAFF-Northern Arizona University (NAU) is proposing a tuition plan for new undergraduates that would bring predictability to the cost of attending the university.

NAU President John Haeger announced a pilot "block tuition" proposal that would guarantee first-time, fulltime freshmen and transfer students the same tuition rate for eight semesters.

Beginning with the fall 2008 semester, new in-state freshmen and transfer students would pay an annual tuition of $5,145, which is 12 percent more than current in-state tuition. That tuition rate would remain the same for the following three years. New out-of-state freshmen and transfer students would pay $16,243 per year, which is 14 percent more than current out-of-state tuition. The out-of-state tuition rate is also guaranteed for the next three years.

"Our survey research indicates parents are very concerned about education costs," said David Bousquet, NAU vice president for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. "This proposal directly addresses that concern and will allow parents and students to plan without fear of sudden spikes in tuition costs."

In addition to bringing predictability to planning for college expenses, Haeger said the block tuition proposal provides an incentive for students to stay at Northern Arizona University and graduate.

Public participation sought

The Arizona Board of Regents will host public tuition hearings for the three state universities via interactive television from 5 to 7 p.m., Nov. 29. The NAU locations will be: Flagstaff: Adel Math, room 137; Yuma: Academic Complex (Yuma), room AC 126; and the North Valley: 15601 N. 28th Ave., room 134, Phoenix.

Individuals who cannot attend the hearing may send their comments to Stella Galaviz of the Arizona Board of Regents: via e-mail at stella.galaviz@azregents.edu; by regular mail to: Arizona Board of Regents, 2020 N. Central Avenue, Suite 230, Phoenix, AZ 85004; or by fax at (602) 229-2555.

All comments received prior to Dec. 5 will be shared with the Board of Regents in advance of the Dec. 6-7 board meeting and vote on tuition and mandatory fees.