The Newman University Board of Trustees has approved a 6 percent tuition increase for the 2016-2017 school year. Tuition rates will remain the same for the Advanced Standing program. With the exception of a parking increase of $15 per semester, there will not be any rate increase in student fees. A 6 percent increase in room rates and a 3 percent increase in board rates were also approved by the Board.
The recently announced upcoming renovations to Eck Hall and building of the new Bishop Gerber Science Center do not play a role in the increases. Those projects will be paid entirely though private fundraising efforts.
Newman President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D., said the increase is important to the university’s continued commitment to students.
“While news of an increase in education costs is not welcomed for students or administration, I want to share with you why the increases are necessary for next year. Central to the increase is our continued commitment to academic excellence. Attracting and retaining top faculty is a priority. This past year our deserving faculty and staff received a well-deserved salary boost, which impacts our budget moving forward,” Carrocci said.
The increases are needed to cover costs in other areas such as technology, utilities and health insurance. The university will also continue to invest in students with significant support through academic scholarships and financial aid.
“We hear from students often that they appreciate the investment the university makes in the quality of their education because they know it will help them be successful in their future careers,” Carrocci said. “Challenging coursework, an outstanding faculty and our culture, which inspires and expands the educational experience beyond the classroom, make the Newman experience one of a kind.”
Carrocci added, “I hope every Newman student is experiencing first hand our faculty helping them discover their passion and preparing them well for the next steps in their journey.”
Ninety-four percent of Newman University students are employed or attending the graduate schools of their choice within a year of commencement. Nursing and allied health graduates approach 100 percent employment, with many receiving job offers before they graduate.
“It’s a credit to our students and their hard work that Newman graduates are sought after in most fields. They will be uniquely prepared to make a difference. Our positive student outcomes speak volumes about why families make the investment to send their students to our school,” Carrocci said.
Under the direction of Vice President for Finance and Administration Jennifer Gantz, Newman University makes it a goal to enhance affordability and keep tuition increases minimal.
“While next year’s increase is 6 percent, Newman’s overall undergraduate tuition of $26,415 is still significantly under the national average of $32,405,” Gantz said. “According to the Department of Education College Scorecard, 12 of the 18 Kansas Independent College Association (KICA) institutions had a higher average cost than we did last year.”
Looking toward the future, Newman University believes the incoming freshman class numbers will grow, building on last year’s positive trend. With an anticipated increase in the number of majors in the sciences and health sciences when the Bishop Gerber Science Center opens in fall 2017, administration believes the future is promising.
If students have any questions, concerns or clarifications, Gantz invites them to contact her at 316-942-4291, ext. 2170 or at [email protected].
