HIGHER EDUCATION FUNDING IN ARIZONA
Since 2008, the State of Arizona has had some of largest cuts to state higher education funding in the nation; matched with some of the highest increases to tuition and fees. Causing many Arizona students to take on multiple jobs, take out large amounts of student loans, or be priced out of college all together. While we have achieved many victories in restoring funding to higher education over the last couple of years; incorporating inflation and overall increased enrollment at our universities and community colleges we are still falling short in per student funding. We must maintain current funding levels while continuing to invest additional dollars into ensuring all Arizonans have access to a higher education that is "As Nearly Free As Possible" just as our state constitution requires.
ASA is currently engaging in advocacy efforts with local, state & national elected and appointed officials on solutions to the higher education funding crisis in Arizona & DC.
As the graph above shows, the state of Arizona has continued to invest in the Department of Corrections at higher rates than higher education. It is time for Arizona to invest in Education Not Incarceration!
ASA is currently engaging in advocacy efforts with local, state & national elected and appointed officials on solutions to the higher education funding crisis in Arizona & DC.
As the graph above shows, the state of Arizona has continued to invest in the Department of Corrections at higher rates than higher education. It is time for Arizona to invest in Education Not Incarceration!
2009 |
2022 |
HIGHER EDUCATION INVESTMENT VICTORIES IN FY24
- Increases funding for rural and tribal community colleges. Adds $14 million in one-time funding is provided beyond the funding formula requirements.
- Funds Pima Community College operating aid. Maricopa and Pima community college districts were removed from the state operating funding formula. The new budget provides $2 million in one-time funding for Pima Community College, while Maricopa County Community College District remains unfunded.
- Invests in career and technical education workforce training at Arizona Western College. $15 million for workforce training at Arizona Western Community College (Yuma).
- Doubles the Promise program. Funding for the Promise program, which offers scholarships to Arizona high school graduates, has increased from $20 million to $40 million.
- Increases funding for future teachers. An additional $15 million is allocated to fund the Teachers Academy at state universities, bringing the total funding to $30 million.