WJACTV.COM: Corbett Says Funding Cuts Not Responsible for Tuition Increases

Gov. Tom Corbett (Commonwealth Media Services)

JOHNSTOWN – Penn State’s tuition has skyrocketed in the past decade, but Pennsylvania’s governor said its not because of funding cuts.

When Gov. Tom Corbett unveiled his proposed budget last week, it indicated state-owned universities could see a 30 percent cut in funding. That means a loss of $41 million for Pitt, $42 million for Temple and $62 million for Penn State.

Penn State’s tuition has increased steadily steadily over the years. In 2001, the yearly tuition bill for a freshman at Penn State’s University Park campus was $7,000. In 2006 it jumped 41.8 percent to $10,000. And last year, it was up 51.1 percent to more than $15,000.

With Corbett’s proposed funding cut of 30 percent, many expect tuition to rise once again.

When asked on Thursday of the response he’s had from alumni, Corbett told reporters he hasn’t seen much. In fact, he said, communication to his office is down considerably this year, compared to last. But from the alumni he has talked with, Corbett said 8 out of 10 agree with his proposal, saying that universities need to learn how to control their costs.

For the full article, check out Gant news partner WJACTV.com.

Exit mobile version