Harper tuition to remain unchanged for third consecutive year amid pandemic

Recognizing the pandemic’s significant financial impact, Harper College approved leaving tuition unchanged for the third consecutive year coupled with other measures aimed at keeping costs down for students.

“We recognize that students are still struggling with the impact of the ongoing pandemic,” said Dr. Avis Proctor, Harper College president. “We are committed to doing all we can to removing barriers and supporting students so they’re better positioned to prioritize their education.”

Effective this summer, Harper’s in-district tuition for the 2022-23 academic year will remain $133.50 per credit hour, or $152.50 per credit hour including the universal fee. Out-of-district, out-of-state and international student tuition rates also will not increase. The Board of Trustees unanimously approved a resolution at the February 23 board meeting leaving tuition unchanged for Fiscal Year 2023.

In addition, the board approved the following tuition-related measures:

• Suspension of differential tuition for certain health care programs: The board approved continuing the temporary suspension of all differential tuition charges through the spring 2023 semester. Students in certain health care programs are charged differential tuition (i.e. double tuition) because the courses are more expensive to offer. It is estimated this suspension will reduce tuition revenue by $1.4 million, which will be offset by the Student Success Initiatives Reserve Fund.
• Tuition for Online Health Information Technology Classes: Students enrolled in the college’s online Health Information Technology program, which launched in fall 2021, will continue to pay in-district tuition regardless of residency through spring 2023. The college is making this program affordable and accessible to all, as an all-online version of this program is not available in many Illinois community college districts.

“As we enter the third year of the pandemic, we must continue to ensure our community can access Harper’s quality and affordable education,” Board Chair Pat Stack said. “The college has worked to carefully manage its resources, and I am pleased this fiscal responsibility has positioned us to provide some relief to students.”