As state lawmakers debate cost-cutting measures during budget hearings, Tennessee’s higher education leaders are recommending one of the smallest tuition hikes in years. Executive Director Richard Rhoda of the Tennessee High Education Commission has recommended Governor Bredesen only increase tuition by five-percent in 2010. Officials with the University of Tennessee system say the hike is “minimal” due to a cushion created by federal stimulus money. On top of more expensive tuition, state students also face larger class sizes and loss of flexibility in scheduling courses.
