Editorial:
Finding a cheaper ticket to Rider

As tuition prices soar to new heights at Rider and financial aid assistance is tight, students are left having to choose just how much an education is worth. It is unfortunate that price tag has become such a critical factor in a decision with far-reaching implications for a generation who will one day be the leaders of this nation. Even though this year’s tuition increased only 5.7 percent, still below the national average, the cost to attend Rider is moving toward an Ivy League level.

Beyond the yearly tuition hikes, the astounding disparity between standard tuition for a College of Continuing Studies (CCS) individual compared to the cost for a full-time Rider student highlights the growing financial discord. The cost of completing the usual 120 credits on the path to a bachelor’s degree over a four-year period is disproportionate to the tune of approximately $50,000. That is a serious chunk of change for college students often hard-pressed for pizza money. CCS or non-traditional students typically do not live on campus or take the standard 15-credit course load, thus relieving some of the services a full-time resident student requires.

In all fairness, full-time residents pay various fees for the resources and facilities at their disposal that a part-time CCS student does not have access to. Students who take advantage of the Bronc Buffets, Bronc Bingo and other programs, rightfully contribute to the Student Activities Fee in addition to the cost of tuition. Depending on a part-time or full-time status, students are also charged a varying technology fee. Being a resident also adds the additional charges for room and board and a meal plan. Consequently, this does in fact compensate for the difference in the tuition rate. After all, a CCS student does not participate in programs or utilize the amenities on campus, such as the Student Recreation Center.

This financial discrepancy, is surprising because the idea of attending Rider as a CCS student is not highlighted as a plausible alternative by the University. Whether it is kept under wraps intentionally or not, students need to take the initiative and explore this viable option for making a college education more affordable. On the other hand, students should also realize the drawbacks to being in CCS. Completing a bachelor’s program may take a little longer than the usual four years. Most of all, not living on campus and non-involvement in campus activities can dramatically change the college experience. There must be some better way the University can slow the yearly rise in tuition and provide full-time students with much-needed relief.

Meanwhile, students are juggling part-time jobs on or off campus, internships, extracurricular involvement and an intense academic course load. Despite the mounting financial burden, today’s competitive job market virtually necessitates a college education.
Let’s face it, though. The price of acquiring an education is only going in one direction – upward with no end in sight. Perhaps students will realize just how much that degree is worth on graduation day as they walk across the stage with families, who undertook the cost, applauding their older, wiser and poorer graduate heading off into the real world.