MIAMI, Okla. (AP) — Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College has announced budget cuts that include layoffs and the elimination of one degree program and two certificate programs, plus a proposed tuition increase.
The Miami News-Record reports that NEO President Jeff Hale said Monday the cuts are due the college receiving nearly $1.5 million fewer dollars in state funding than last year.
The Legislature reduced funding to all higher education by 16 percent as lawmakers worked to fill what had been a $1.3 billion shortfall in the state budget.
Hale said the layoffs include 20 staff and seven faculty positions. NEO's Native American Studies program is being eliminated as is the Business Administration Support Option and the Medical Office Assistant Option.
NEO will also seek a nine percent tuition increase and will begin reducing scholarships.