In the past, many University of Memphis students found that despite living in the Memphis metropolitan area, they still paid more than $13,000 for a single year in out-of-state tuition.
"I can't see how anyone who lives so close to our University could pay so much," said Austin Russell, psychology major.
That is all about to change for several out-of-state students hailing from the neighboring counties in Mississippi and Arkansas.
The Tennessee Board of Regents voted Friday to allow students from Crittenden County, Ark., and Desoto, Marshall, Tate and Tunica counties in Mississippi to attend The U of M at the in-state rate.
The decision was made at the board's quarterly meeting at The Volunteer State College in Gallatin, Tenn.
"This is a major step forward for The University of Memphis, but especially for the people who live in the five counties," said Shirley Raines, president of The U of M. "They can now take advantage of the education available to them from a comprehensive University that is geographically close to their homes."
The program will apply to qualified students attending The U of M during the Fall 2005 semester.
"With tuition rates going up all the time, maybe more students from across the river will want to come here now that they can come at a cheaper price," Russell said.
There are currently more than 600 students from the five neighboring counties attending The University of Memphis.
The five counties selected to receive the in-state tuition rates have a combined population of more than 254,000, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. These statistics include around 2,400 high school seniors and 2,800 high school juniors.
"I think it will help out The University a lot," said education major Adrienne Brogdon. "Maybe now more people will choose to stay closer to home and see what we have to offer here."
Indeed there are hopes that the new program will increase graduate numbers and ease the high demand for college graduates in the local Memphis work force.
Local businesses near The University were also large supporters of the resolution.
University officials estimated that the local economy should see an increase by up to $13 million as the program matures and student spending power increases.
Though the increase in revenue to the area would be a major boost, the main benefit of the proposal will be seen by the students, Russell said.
"If you really think about it, a few miles shouldn't matter when it comes to paying for a college education," Russell said.
