Prestigious College Ends Free Tuition After More Than 100 Years

 

After more than 100 years, Cooper Union (one of the last tuition-free colleges in the United States,) will charge tuition to it’s incoming undergraduate class. Cooper Union, which opened it’s doors in 1859, was devoted to educating the working-class of New Yorkers — at no cost. However, due to incredibly severe financial hardships which include operating at a $12 million dollar annual deficit, and paying $10 million dollars yearly on a $175 million dollar loan, the faculty at Cooper Union has decided that it would be best for the school’s future to charge it’s students for tuition. Originally, Cooper Union attempted to solve their budget crisis through other means (such as closing one of Cooper Union’s three schools, and cutting scholarships by 50 percent.) Although this change has made many students incredibly unhappy and unsure about their futures, Cooper Union hopes that by doing this, it will ensure a successful future for their establishment.