Cape Breton University budget hikes tuition by 5.9 per cent

Cape Breton University is once again raising tuition.

CBU’S board of governors granted a $57.3-million operating budget last week, which featured a $2-million long-term deficit.

For the third year in a row the university has raised tuition by 5.9 per cent, although officials maintain that tuition costs remain below the provincial average.

Students will now pay $7,805 for five full-year undergraduate courses this fall, although Nova Scotia students receive rebates than bring that amount down to $6,522.

Students living on campus can also expect a two per cent increase in their residence fees.

CBU’S board of governors issued a mandate for the creation of its first strategic plan since 2001. The proposal includes a series of special events to foster open discussion on the university’s future.

David Dingwall, the former Liberal cabinet minister who stepped into the president’s role earlier this month, said working groups are now setting up strategy parameters.

The university has hired a consultant, Bonnie Patterson, who is the former president and chief executive officer of the Council of Ontario Universities.

CBU investment priorities are aimed at fostering a better student environment, creating growth within its Unama’ki College and adding supports for student aid and increased community outreach initiatives.

Nova Scotia universities face the added challenge of having funding grants cut in recent years as the province looks to rein in spending. Enrolment figures show an accelerated decline in local students attending the university, while there is also a rapid growth in international students, particularly pupils from India.