DEFIANCE, Ohio — As the cost of a college education seems to be constantly going up, one local school is taking things in another direction.
Defiance College announced the rollout of their "DEFIne Your Future" Program," which will be reducing their annual tuition rate by 25% starting next school year, down from nearly $38,000 a year to $28,500.
Along with helping the college to be more competitive in bringing in new students, it's also expected to help retain current students as well.
"It's called repackaging. We will repackage financial aid for all of our students," said Dr. Richanne Mankey, Defiance College president.
Currently, 100% of Defiance College undergraduate students use financial assistance.
With the lowered tuition rate, school officials hope that more prospective students who weren't considering Defiance College, or college in general, will give DC a chance.
"Decreasing the sticker shock will allow students to explore what Defiance College has more, and see that we are an affordable opportunity for them to get their education," said Dr Jeremy Taylor, V.P. for Enrollment Management at Defiance College.
Along with that tuition reduction, the school is also offering another program called the DC Advantage Plan that will help students pay off their student loans after graduating.
"Guarantees loan repayment for students, graduates who get a job who make less than $45,000 a year," said Mankey.
Between the lowered tuition rate, financial aid repayment assistance and with the college's entry into the NAIA for athletics allowing for athletic scholarships, Defiance College leaders hope they are setting up their current and future students for success after graduation.
"But also are serving in a community way, community leaders, civic stewards, and we want our students to not only have a good profession, but we want them to be community participants and leaders," said Mankey.
MORE LOCAL HEADLINES FROM WTOL: