EMU Regents approve $263 million budget, 7.7 percent tuition increase

SEVEN UP: Eastern Michigan University students, including these three seen recently studying in front of Starkweather Hall, will pay 7.7 percent more in tuition this year. Of that total, 6.8 percent is for tuition and fees, and another 0.9 percent to reinvest in building improvements.

The Eastern Michigan University Board of Regents approved a University budget for fiscal year 2008-09 of $262.7 million with a 7.7 percent increase in tuition and fees. Of that increase, 6.8 percent is designated for operations and 0.9 percent to reinvest in building improvements. The Regents also approved housing and dining rate increases averaging 5.15 percent for 2008-2009, and reinvested in students with $23.6 million in student financial aid, an increase of 10.3 percent compared with the previous fiscal year.

“EMU believes in reinvestment in Michigan through our talent base that we provide that will rebuild Michigan’s economy and future. Our students come from Michigan, graduate and stay in Michigan. An investment in EMU is an investment in Michigan’s future. This is why we felt it was extremely important to increase student financial aid, especially in this economic environment,” said Susan Martin, president of Eastern Michigan University. “We’re pleased that we will be able to offer a 10-percent increase or nearly $24 million in financial aid for our students.”

The $262.7 million budget represents an increase of $9.6 million (3.8 percent) and reflects a 1-percent increase in state appropriations. This year’s budget was developed with input from the EMU Budget Council, a 28-member group made up of representatives from faculty and staff.

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