May 1st is an important date for high school students attending a college or university.

As the date creeps up on them, students face the stress of making the final decision as to where they will be spending their next two or four years. This stress is like no other though: it is not the same feeling that they felt when first applying, wondering if we will be accepted to their dream schools.

They are now faced with the thousands of dollars of debt, all for the hopes that the school they choose will provide them with the education we needed for successful. Over the years, college tuition has drastically risen. Why might ask?

In my research, I encountered several different theories about what contributes to this.

The Rising Cost of Healthcare

One of the most popular theories is healthcare. Healthcare has been a major problem for this this country. Prices have increased and access to it has dwindled. Universities must provide health care so when health care rises by 15-20% and Universities continue to hire personnel the only option is to raise tuition prices.

Faculty Salaries

Over pay is another theory that most people agree with. Faculty at Universities start out low and gradually continue to make more as they climb the ladder like most places of employment. Faculty in their later years make upwards of $150-200 thousand. These high salaries are causing tuition to rise. While these professors are reaping the benefits of years of education and expertise, new college students are investing in their salaries, hoping to find themselves in a similar place in life later on.

Technology and Amenities

Ultimately, fancy amenities and expensive infrastructure have become very popular for colleges and universities. Building new gyms, libraries, sports complexes and computer labs. All with the best technology and materials. As compared to the 50’s and 60’s, buildings are now built out of marble, hardwood paneling and floors, along with flourished landscapes with tons of upkeep. Expanded resources have also become more popular for students. Programs like studying abroad, career services offices and so on are pricey programs for colleges and universities.

Refer to the list below for other relevant articles about the cost of college tuition.

• “Why Is College so Expensive?” Washington Post. The Washington Post, n.d. Web. 28 Apr. 2014.
•  The Wall Street Journal. Dow Jones & Company, n.d. Web. 27 Apr. 2014.