College approves tuition increase

The Flathead Valley Community College Board of Trustees raised tuition Monday by $3.75 a credit or $52.50 a semester for full-time students effective in fall 2006.

President Jane Karas said the increase was recommended by the college budget committee. It equals a 6 percent rise over 2005-06.

Tuition for out-of-district students increased $6.10 a credit, while out-of-state tuition jumped by $15.30 a credit. These students' per-semester costs increased by $85.40 and $214.20 for full time.

Trustees also approved these increases in fees per credit hour recommended by the committee:

-25 cents for grounds and maintenance,

-$2 for buildings,

-$1 for technology.

Karas said that the building fee had not increased since the 1980s. She said that the community college still represents one of the best bargains in Montana for two-years of college education.

Karas said a forum was held to receive comments from students last week. Karas and Sheila Gestring, chief financial officer, fielded questions.

Karas said students understood the need to increase tuition to cover rising costs of operating the college.

The cost per semester in 2006 with mandatory fees included is:

-Full-time, in-district students: $1,174.15

-Full-time, out-of-district students: $1,732.75

-Full-time, out-of-state students: $3,877.55

After the meeting, Karas said the increase in tuition shouldn't keep anyone from attending the college, which offers a range of financial assistance.

She also said that it wasn't informative to compare percentage increases with those of four-year institutions. Although their percentage increases may be lower, the dollar increase is much larger because their tuitions can be double that of the community college.

Also at the meeting, Karas informally announced that spring semester enrollment continued the pattern of more students on campus taking fewer classes.

The college will compile a final report after enrollment figures come in from late-starting classes such as online courses.

As of Monday, the Kalispell and Lincoln County campuses had 103 more students enroll compared to spring 2005. However, full-time-equivalent students were down 90.

Historically, Flathead Valley Community College enrollment correlates to employment. In times of full employment, more students hold down jobs while taking classes part time.

Reporter Candace Chase may be reached at 758-4436 or by e-mail at cchase@dailyinterlake.com.