[ROSEMONT, IL] – Northwestern College, the second oldest private, two-year college in Illinois, announced that its Board of Directors this past quarter voted not to increase tuition for the 2013-2014 academic year. This is the second year in a row that the Board has chosen not to increase tuition, despite a challenging economic climate. Consequently, the costs per credit hour in the upcoming year will remain the same as those assessed two years ago during the 2011-2012 academic year. Speaking on behalf of its Board of Directors, Northwestern College President Lawrence Schumacher explained that the Board continues to be sensitive to the state of the economy and the fact that so many of its students continue to struggle to make ends meet, with little sign of relief in the near future. He confirmed the fact that costs for the college have again increased this year – just as they did last year – but that the Board held firm on its belief that an increase in tuition would be an extreme burden for their students. President Schumacher further noted that students have had to be extra patient awaiting the issuance of MAP grants from the State of Illinois, grants dedicated exclusively to tuition and fees, with the wait creating even further hardship on students. “Northwestern College is well aware that many of our students continue to struggle financially,” stated Schumacher. “But getting a college degree and obtaining the necessary workforce skills to compete in a troubled economy remain a top priority. If we can ease some of their anxiety by holding the line on tuition, it just might provide them the necessary reprieve to enable them to complete their education.” Founded in 1902, Northwestern College is a family-owned higher education institution in the Chicagoland area with a 110 year history of providing relevant and future-focused programs that target the nation’s fastest growing careers. About Northwestern College: Northwestern College (NC) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, http://www.ncahlc.org. The college offers focused career-oriented associate degree and certificate programs with flexible schedules and a supportive faculty. Day, evening, weekend, online classes and online programs are available. More information can be found at www.northwesterncollege.edu or by calling toll-free (888) 205-2283.
