Contributed Report

Monroeville, AL- Many registered for classes Wednesday at Alabama Southern’s Demopolis campus.

What they may not have realized is that they registered for a world-class education, class to home at an affordable price.

“Alabama Southern Community College will continue to offer affordable tuition for students in Southwest Alabama,” said Dr. John Johnson, President of Alabama Southern Community College. “We want our students to understand that they are receiving a quality education at an affordable price. Their education at Alabama Southern will place them in a position to not only give back to the communities of Southwest Alabama but wherever their lives may take them.”

The Alabama College System, which includes Alabama Southern, other community and technical colleges and Athens State University, will not increase tuition this year. Tuition and fees at community and technical colleges is $90 per credit hour. Total tuition and fees for a full-time student at one of Alabama’s public two-year colleges is just 59% of the average at state four-year institutions.

“Community colleges exist to give more people access to higher education. Families need options that make college affordable. We are committed to providing those options and opening doors for students,” said Roy Johnson, Chancellor of The Alabama College System.

The STARS agreement guarantees the transfer of credit from community colleges to four-year colleges. That guarantee and low tuition mean students can complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree at just a little more than half the cost of a state university. Pell grants, scholarships and other financial aid make community colleges even more affordable.

The location of colleges, flexible class schedules and increasing options for distance learning make it possible for many to earn college credit while living and working in their own communities. This allows students to save on housing and transportation costs, as well as tuition.

The mission of The Alabama College System is to provide accessible, quality educational programs that support economic growth and the quality of life of the people of Alabama. The Department of Postsecondary Education operates The Alabama College System under the governance of the State Board of education.

Alabama Southern Community College is a rural, multi-campus, comprehensive community college serving an approximate 5,000 square mile area of Southwest Alabama. The college has campuses located in Monroeville, Thomasville, Gilbertown, Jackson and Demopolis. The College’s guarantees of quality and accountability have brought distinction both locally and nationally, with its latest distinction being the National Bellwether Award for outstanding achievement in teaching and learning initiatives. Its innovative, dynamic spirit provides the catalyst for improvements in quality of life and economic vitality for Southwest Alabama.

For more information, contact: Stephanie P. Etheredge, Director of Public Information, (251) 575-3156, ext: 265.