Cumbria University to charge £8,400 tuition fees

Cumbria University has announced students will be charged £8,400 per year in tuition fees.

The charge will be for UK and EU students starting full-time undergraduate courses in 2012.

University vice chancellor Graham Upton said it was necessary to offset cuts to its teaching grant.

It said it was developing financial support packages to try to ensure students were not put off from applying.

Mr Upton said: "The drive to offer high quality resources to match the already high level of teaching is fundamental to the decision that has been taken.

"Setting our tuition fee at £8,400 is necessary if we are to offset the government's decision to cut our teaching grant and are to be able to invest in facilities and accommodation, as well as learning and teaching resources, to enhance and support the overall quality of the student experience."

The University of Cumbria Students Union (UCSU) said it understood the university's position but was critical of the cuts that had meant it had to make the decision.

UCSU representation sabbatical Martin Dodd said: "Having been included in discussions the union has been able to set clear its position on the provision and support the university must provide to ensure the fee set maintains value for money and provides the best experience for students.

"The union will work with the university to ensure it continues to instil the principles of being a university of and for Cumbria in relation to widening participation within Cumbria, North Lancashire and beyond."