UNC System on the Verge of Losing One or Two Campuses Following Budget Cuts

The University of North Carolina System could lose a few of its campuses following a $135 million cut in funding for the system in the 2013-14 fiscal year proposed by Gov. Pat McCrory, last month.

In addition to shutting down its campuses, the lawmakers are planning to trim down duplicate programs across UNC campuses to cut costs.

UNC President Tom Ross said that 5.4 percent reduction in state funds could possibly lead to grave consequences and restrict the system in providing high-quality education.

"We recognize that we must do more with less and remain accountable to state taxpayers and policymakers," he said. "As outlined in our new strategic plan, we are taking steps to further streamline operations, improve instructional productivity and quality and refine and focus academic missions to meet current and future state needs," Ross said.

McCrory has already warned that the system could face $102.5 million or 4 percent cuts during the 2014-15 fiscal year too.

So, the overall budget cuts in two years comes up to $241 million. Two years ago, the system faced more than $400 million in budget reductions.

Raeann George, a senior at North Carolina State, said she was more worried about the possible tuition hikes for out-of-state students to compensate for the budget cuts.

George said that this might prevent prospective students from other states to enrol at colleges and universities under this system.

Rep. Mickey Michaux, D-Durham, said that if the system experiences frequent budget cuts, it could dampen the quality of education, teaching and research in these institutions.

McCrory's plans to invest $63 million over two years- $19.5 million next fiscal year and $43.6 million during the 2014-15 fiscal year- on the system's Strategic Directions initiatives approved by the UNC Board of Governors, last month.

The Governor wishes to increase enrolment in high-demand fields and align educational needs according to the marketplace.

The strategic plan also features awarding 32 percent degrees to residents aged 18-64, investing in fields of strategic economic importance to the state, expanding online learning opportunities and improving access to military personnel.