U of I president says schools could help students get out in 3 years to save money

[March 12, 2010]  CHAMPAIGN (AP) -- The University of Illinois will look into ways to help students graduate in three years as it tries to save money and cut students' costs.

Interim President Stanley Ikenberry on Wednesday said university staff should have a report on the idea in about six months. Ikenberry was speaking at a university trustees' meeting.

He said the university's three campuses could make better use of summer programs to cut time and money students spend on bachelor's degrees.

The university is trying to cut costs as it waits for almost $500 million in delinquent payments from state government. The state is falling behind in payments to public universities as it struggles with a budget deficit.

Ikenberry has said tuition will increase next year by up to 20 percent.

[Associated Press]

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