SMCC cuts programs, hikes tuition and fees

SUMMIT — Southwest Mississippi Community College (SMCC) has suspended four athletic programs and raised tuition and fees to deal with anticipated budget reductions from the state.

The McComb Enterprise-Journal reports the two-year school also froze employees salaries.

Officials say they expect a 12 percent reduction in state support.

School trustees voted this week to suspend the men’s and women’s track and the golf and tennis programs for a year, reduce the scholarship funds for cheerleaders and cut other athletic budgets. Officials say the school will save about $452,000.

The basic tuition for full-time students was increased by $125, from $850 to $975 per semester. The tuition increase should generate $487,000 annually.

Fees for part-time students, online classes and other programs also were increased.