STATE CUTS FORCE LCCC TO INCREASE TUITION

A reduction of $3.2 million in the State Share of Instruction (SSI) to Lorain County Community College this year coupled with expected reductions in the new fiscal year beginning in July 2012 has forced the college to raise current tuition about 3.5 percent – or $3.40 per credit hour – beginning with summer semester 2012.

Tuition will increase from the current $97 per credit hour to $100.40 per credit hour. The College Board of Trustees approved this increase Thursday, January 19.

“The SSI accounts for about 36 percent of our annual budget and it’s imperative that we have the necessary funds to serve our students who are doing all they can to prepare themselves for careers in this new era,” said LCCC President Dr. Roy A. Church.  “The continued decline in state funding has regrettably put us in a position where we have to ask students to pay more.” 

Summer classes begin May 21 and registration for summer starts March 19. 

This new tuition rate still ensures that LCCC students will be paying one of the lowest tuition rates in Ohio. Average full-time tuition for the state-assisted two-year colleges in Ohio is about $3,600 per year.  Lorain County residents who are enrolled full-time will pay $100.40 per credit hour for tuition. Full-time tuition per semester will be $1,305.20 and $2,610.40 annually.

“Our goal continues to be providing students with the services necessary to successfully complete their degree,” Church said.

During the past two years the College has instituted belt-tightening strategies to address state funding reductions to higher education. These strategies have resulted in $5.1 million in cost savings and include freezing or eliminating positions, combining positions, implementing new energy and utility management initiatives and reducing printing costs among others.

“We are continuing to look at all areas of the college to see where we may reduce our costs even further,” Church said. This includes working with faculty and staff to review other areas of the budget that focus on class sizes and operational expenses at the organizational unit level. The College also continues to aggressively pursue federal and state grants to offset operational costs.

LCCC students can save more by participating in the College’s innovative blanket tuition plan. This offers a significant value and discount by providing students with the opportunity to sign up for up to 18 credit hours and pay for only 13 credit hours per semester, resulting in a savings up to $502 each semester.

Additionally, Federal Pell Grants to assist those with the most financial need with their tuition is available.  LCCC also offers significant scholarships and grants through the LCCC Foundation.  Students can contact the Financial Service Center at 440-366-4034 or visit online at www.lorainccc.edu/financialaid for assistance.