MS public college tuitions to increase

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) - Member of the state College Board voted Thursday to accept preliminary tuition increases for the state's eight public universities. The board will take a final vote on the numbers May 7.

Tuition could increase by as much as 10 percent at some schools, with larger increases for out-of-state students. The increases would average about $450 per year for in-state students, with the potential for additional increases if the universities don't receive requested funding from the Legislature.

Officials say Mississippi public university tuition would remain competitive compared to peer institutions. Over a two-year period, tuition could increase by nearly $1,000 for in-state students and nearly $2,000 for out-of-state students.

College Board members say the increases are necessary to maintain educational quality while compensating for inflation and less state funding.