Kent State University Approves Updated College Completion Plan and Sets Fall Tuition Rates

Enhancing Student Success and Accessibility at Kent State University

Kent State University in Ohio continues to emphasize its commitment to expanding access to higher education and improving student outcomes. Recently, the university’s Board of Trustees approved an updated Complete College Ohio Campus Completion Plan alongside new tuition rates for the upcoming fall semester. These strategic actions reflect Kent State’s dedication to fostering student success, ensuring affordability, and aligning institutional goals with statewide educational priorities.

Understanding Kent State University’s College Completion Strategy

As part of its mission to provide accessible education, Kent State University has developed a comprehensive college completion plan aimed at increasing graduation rates and supporting student retention. The 2024 update builds on progress made since 2014, highlighting key achievements such as a rise in retention rates and targeted initiatives to reduce attrition.

The plan aligns with the university’s broader Strategic Roadmap for a Distinctive Kent State, emphasizing student success as a core priority. Strategies like implementing support programs, fostering a sense of belonging, and reducing barriers to degree completion are central to these efforts.

Progress in Student Retention and Graduation Rates

• The retention rate on the Kent Campus has recovered from pandemic disruptions, now standing at 79.7%, exceeding the initial goal of 77.6%.
• Regional campuses experienced a gradual recovery in retention, reaching 56.6% in 2022, up from 53% during the pandemic.
• The six-year graduation rate for first-time, full-time students on the Kent Campus reached 65.9%, a noteworthy indicator of student success.

Upcoming Goals for Student Retention and Persistence

Looking ahead, Kent State plans to:

• Implement targeted student success tactics outlined in its strategic plans, such as The Golden Road to Student Success.
• Pilot initiatives like Belonging Champions across regional campuses to improve course outcomes and foster community integration.
• Coordinate efforts across departments to optimize retention and streamline student support initiatives, eliminating redundancies.

Setting Fall 2024 Tuition and Fees

Alongside its academic planning, Kent State trustees approved tuition, room, and meal plan rates for the fall 2024 cohort under a Tuition Guarantee Model. This model aims to provide predictability and affordability for students and their families, aligning with state policies to control college costs.

Tuition Rates and Fee Structure

• Resident undergraduate students will pay $6,526.80 per semester, representing a modest 3% increase ($190.10) from fall 2023.
• The double room rate will be $4,030 per semester, a 1.51% rise ($60).
• The popular Blue meal plan will cost $2,690 per semester, up 5.49% ($140).

These rates will be frozen for four years for students entering in fall 2024, providing financial stability over their college journey.

Differences for Continuing Students and Non-Undergraduate Fees

For continuing students not under the guarantee, tuition increases are aligned with the state’s efforts to maintain affordability. The full-time annual undergraduate tuition for these students is among the lowest across Ohio public universities, signifying Kent State’s commitment to accessible education.

Graduate tuition and non-resident surcharges will also see adjustments in line with university policies, supporting the growth of graduate programs and research excellence.

Maintaining Financial Sustainability and Strategic Investments

The university’s fiscal plan includes a balanced budget of over $703 million for FY2025, supporting strategic investments in academic programs, student services, and campus facilities. Key revenue sources such as state funding, tuition, auxiliary enterprises, and private investments will be carefully managed to sustain quality and affordability.

Budget allocations will prioritize funding scholarships, staff compensation, healthcare benefits, and campus infrastructure projects, reinforcing Kent State’s mission to serve Ohio and beyond.

Important Facility and Program Developments

Additional investments include renovating student support spaces, expanding athletic and research facilities, and enhancing technological infrastructure. Notably, the university approved multiple naming actions recognizing generous donors who support various programs, including construction management, literary arts, and entrepreneurship initiatives.

Strategic Vendor and Program Decisions

The Board also approved vendor contracts for essential services such as healthcare for student-athletes, library serials subscriptions, residence hall furniture, and dining operations. These decisions aim to enhance campus life, support academic excellence, and ensure operational efficiency.

Real Estate and Program Adjustments

• Disposal of surplus land in Franklin Township and Salem underscores efforts to optimize campus real estate assets.
• Inactivation of under-enrolled programs in applied studies reflects a data-driven approach to academic planning.

Looking Forward: Opportunities for Prospective and Current Students

Kent State University’s recent initiatives demonstrate a proactive stance toward fostering student success and maintaining affordability amidst changing economic conditions. Students considering enrollment can benefit from the predictable tuition rates and the university’s ongoing commitment to enhancing campus resources.

If you are interested in exploring academic programs, financial aid opportunities, or campus support services, consider submitting your application today or scheduling a consultation with Kent State’s admissions team. Visit Kent State’s application portal here.

For current students, upcoming campus renovations and program adjustments aim to provide a better learning environment and improved student services in the year ahead.

Conclusion

By updating its college completion plan and setting transparent, stable tuition rates, Kent State University reaffirms its dedication to accessible, high-quality education. These strategic measures are designed to support student achievement, enhance campus facilities, and uphold fiscal responsibility — all vital components of a thriving academic community.

Stay informed about Kent State’s latest developments by visiting their official website, and take the next step toward your educational goals today.