Regents Greenlight Budget and Tuition Hike to Enhance Quality and Accessibility of Education

The University of Nebraska’s Board of Regents recently approved a 5% tuition hike and additional budget cuts for the 2025-26 fiscal year. This decision, according to NU President Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, is crucial for maintaining the university’s quality and accessibility.

During the board meeting, Dr. Gold emphasized the importance of being responsible with resources. He mentioned the need to provide a valuable and affordable education for all students in Nebraska and beyond. “These choices aren’t taken lightly,” he said, referencing his own journey as a first-generation college student. However, he insists these changes are necessary to uphold the standards that Nebraskans expect.

Along with the tuition increase, the budget plan includes over $20 million in cuts. This decision comes after the state legislature provided modest funding, which hasn’t kept up with inflation and rising costs. Despite the adjustments, Dr. Gold highlighted that the University of Nebraska will still be among the most affordable options in the Big Ten and its peers nationwide.

Dr. Gold also shared some positive developments within the university system. For instance, over 7,000 degrees were awarded this spring, supporting Nebraska’s workforce needs. The new Catalyst building in Omaha aims to enhance health care and biomedical research. Moreover, the University of Nebraska at Omaha is expanding its Biomechanics Research Building, reinforcing Nebraska’s leadership in health science.

Notably, the university is making strides in athletics as well, with student-athletes achieving conference titles while also excelling academically. Dr. Gold pointed out the appointment of Neal Schnoor, PhD, as the priority candidate for chancellor at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

These achievements align with the university’s new five-pillar strategic plan focused on teaching, research, engagement, culture, and stewardship. Dr. Gold noted that the university is continuously striving for excellence, even while facing financial challenges.

He reaffirmed that all budget decisions would support the strategic plan. The university is looking to enhance operations, improve efficiency, and adapt academic programs to meet student and workforce needs, including proposals for new degrees in robotics engineering and multidisciplinary studies.

In recent trends, education funding and tuition rates have become hot topics on social media, with many students sharing their concerns. A recent survey showed that 62% of students worry about rising education costs, highlighting the importance of transparency and communication between institutions and students.

Looking ahead, the Board of Regents also approved the establishment of the Diabetes Center of Excellence and the introduction of new undergraduate programs in Robotics Engineering and Multidisciplinary Studies, enhancing educational opportunities for future students.

With careful planning and a clear mission, Dr. Gold remains optimistic about the university’s future. “I believe the University of Nebraska will continue to thrive and stand as one of our state’s greatest assets.”



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