Harrisburg University of Science and Technology Interim President Eric Darr has decided to freeze tuition for the 2013-14 academic year.
This comes at a time when higher education costs have driven universities and colleges across the country to increase tuition costs.
The university is maintaining its annual tuition at $23,900 and $19,500 for full-time undergraduates and graduate respectively.
The Harrisburg tuition is $6,000 below the average for Pennsylvania's private universities and more than $8,700 below the national average for private universities.
"The pursuit of a college degree can be financially challenging and our decision to hold the line on college tuition for current or new students is a decidedly bold move in a climate where higher education costs continue to increase. When compared to other private colleges in Pennsylvania, Harrisburg University stands out as an affordable choice for a quality education," said Darr.
Apart from freezing the tuition, the university also offers need-based and merit financial aid, further lessening their burden. Overall, more than 98 percent of students receive some form of financial aid.
However, room rates are increasing to $180 per semester for standard doubles and $130 per semester for standard triple.
Darr said that by taking such brave measures the university is indirectly boosting Pennsylvania's economy and increasing access to an affordable science and technology education.
He also said that the tuition freeze is also helping students who have chosen to build careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) fields.
Nearly half of the university student body is made up of the minority section and women, who are under-represented groups in the science and technology fields.
