MSU raises tuition for 2010-11

By Scott Pohl, WKAR

DETROIT, MI –

DETROIT, MI (WKAR) Michigan State University will raise undergraduate tuition by 2.5% next year.

The undergrad tuition increase is lower than what was expected. It's half as big as what was called for in the university's two-year budget plan adopted last year.

Graduate students and non-residents will pay 5% more for tuition.

MSU Trustees have also approved a 10% increase in financial aid for the 2010-2011 academic year.

The Trustees met in Detroit for the first time ever. The board also also voted to reduce campus health care costs by 10%. Faculty and all collective-bargaining employees will forego pay raises this year.

Because of the uncertainty surrounding state appropriations for higher education, the board granted President Lou Anna Simon the power to raise tuition and fees if needed. If MSU gets more than expected from the state, Simon could put the money into reserve to address future shortfalls.