August 18, 2005

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and the Legislature upheld the higher education compact when this year’s state budget was approved in July.

The budget agreement provides $235.2 million — an increase of 6.5 percent for 2005-06 — for the 23-campus California State University system and ensures enrollment for an additional 10,000 students.

The 2005-06 budget increases the CSU general fund support by 5.4 percent, as well as provides $134 million in new revenue, the first increase for the system after three years of budget reductions.

“We are very pleased that the budget means increased student enrollment and reinvests in our faculty and staff,” said CSU Chancellor Charles B. Reed. “The governor has been steadfast in his support for higher education, and the California State University appreciates his support.”

The budget includes funding for an employee pay increase, which must be bargained for represented employees.

In addition, it increases financial aid by $23.3 million and provides $26 million in general obligation bond funds for capital renewal programs.

The budget also includes $560,000 to expand graduate nursing programs and $250,000 to increase the number of teacher preparation programs to produce additional K-12 science and math teachers.

As part of the compact for higher education, the CSU increased State University fees by 8 percent for undergraduates and students enrolled in teacher credential programs, and by 10 percent for graduate students.

With the increase and university fees, Cal State Fullerton students enrolled in seven or more units will pay annually: undergraduates, $2,990; credential students, $3,392; and graduate students, $3,572.

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