Virginia's General Assembly passed a bill March 15 that, if signed by Gov. Tim Kaine, would add a fee in addition to tuition for students who take more than 125 percent of credits required by a certain program, such as a major or minor, at all Virginia public schools.
The fee will be an extra $6700 a year, or about $224 per credit. The "surcharge," as the fee is called in the bill, does not apply to any of the following: remedial courses, AP or IB credits, dual-enrollment or other college-level classes taken before graduating high school or transfer credits that do not fill general education or degree requirements.
There are also exceptions for students who are ill or disabled or students who are serving active duty in the military.
Typically, only students who take longer than five years to graduate will take more than 125 percent of required credits.
Fourth-year College student Nate Vassar said he thinks the bill is a useful idea.
"I'd say it's a positive incentive for students who otherwise would pull a 'Van Wilder,'" Vassar said.
Vassar also noted a more practical consequence of the bill.
"There is not enough space at universities," Vassar said, citing the many dorm rooms at the University that house three students instead of two.
In Vassar's opinion, the bill would help push students through the system so they graduate in a timely manner, making room for incoming students.
Vassar also said charging a fee for extra credits is a sensible way to snag students' attention.
"The pocketbook is where it's going to hurt the most," Vassar said. "Students are going to pay attention."
Vassar said he could only think of one disadvantage, but overall he believes the bill will be effective.
"It may limit the academic potential of an eager student," Vassar said. "Other than that, I can't think of anything" wrong with the bill.
First-year College student Thrive Grimmer said he thinks the limitations the bill pose are the reason why he does not support the bill.
"The purpose of college is to take classes and further your knowledge," Grimmer said. "It's not fair to punish people for taking the fullest advantage."
Both Grimmer and Vassar said they agreed the bill would not have a big effect on University students because of the four-year limit for undergraduate study here.
But Grimmer said the premise of the bill violates University principles.
"Thomas Jefferson would not be of accord with this bill," Grimmer said. "It doesn't jive with the ideals of the Academical Village. Jefferson would beg you to take more classes."
Although other public Virginia colleges and universities do not have such strict time requirements for graduation, Grimmer said he does not think the bill will even affect other Virginia students.
"Other schools are party schools," Grimmer said. "Who's going to take that many credits?"
Vassar maintained his belief that, because money is involved, students will take notice.
"It will make students take academics seriously," Vassar said.
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