NNMC News: 

ESPAÑOLA —Northern New Mexico College’s Board of Regents approved a new tuition discount program Dec. 7 for students age 55+.

Starting Spring 2019 semester, the “55+ Tuition Discount Program” allows students who are age 55 and older to take one 3- or 4-credit non-art course per semester for $150, all fees included.

The $150 tuition rate will apply to the first non-art course that a 55+ student enrolls in each semester. This amounts to a 75 percent discount from regular in-state tuition and fees, which for 3- or 4-credit classes are $624.91 and $832.46 respectively. Even the state-mandated $5 per credit hour tuition for students age 65 and older amounts to over $200 when student fees are included.

The 55+ Tuition Discount Program is designed to encourage elder community members, including parents or other relatives of existing college students, to explore and enjoy college classes at Northern for themselves, and to help remove financial barriers to doing so.

“I am proud of our Board for taking this leap of faith with us,” Northern President Richard J. Bailey said. “The 55+ Tuition Discount Program is a great opportunity to welcome more community members to the College, and to encourage family members to experience higher education endeavors together. Ultimately, this initiative is being made to strengthen the culture of education in Northern New Mexico. We look forward to seeing you all in the spring!”

Northern also offers a special Community Rate for art classes of $100 per credit hour, or $300 for a typical art class, all fees included. Initiated in 2014, the Community Rate for art classes is designed for non-degree students of any age who are taking 6 credits or less.

Northern New Mexico College is a minority-serving institution, offering bachelor’s, associate, and certificate programs.

The College primarily serves rural communities within a 40-mile radius of its campus in Española, within one of the most underserved regions in the state.