University decides to set low tuition fees (From News Shopper)

University decides to set low tuition fees

9:54am Tuesday 22nd March 2005 in Education News By Glenn Ebrey

HARD-UP students are raising a glass to lower tuition fees.

The University of Greenwich has decided to set its fees below the £3,000 threshold set by the Government.

This makes it one of only eight universities in the UK to opt for lower fees.

From September 2006, the university will charge £2,500 for honours degrees and £1,500 for foundation degrees and HNDs.

University chiefs took the views of students into account when setting the fees.

President of the University of Greenwich Students' Union Farrah Chandia, 23, says she is happy with the end result.

She said: "I welcome the change. It offers greater value for money.

"This will give a greater range of educational opportunities to more people and mean more students from poorer backgrounds can go to university.

"The National Union of Students as a whole campaigned against top-up fees and though I supported them, I am very happy with the stance our university has taken."

Lower fees are just one of a range of financial measures which were announced by the university.

Mature students on low incomes will qualify for an annual cash bursary of £500, while high achievers will receive a £500 scholarship.

The university is also expanding its hardship fund, which supports students in financial difficulties during their studies.

University bosses say the new fees aim to strike a balance between maintaining opportunities for students and improving standards.

The money will be spent on extra teaching staff and creating better student support services.

Vice-Chancellor Baroness Tessa Blackstone said: "Our aim is to attract students from a wide range of backgrounds, invest in their education and help them into good jobs after graduation.

"We will offer high-quality education at an affordable price."