What's Next for Tuition-free Education?

About the Episode: ‍

In this live episode from NACAC 2024, Dr. Ray Lutsky sits down with Fatema Dalal, Director of Admissions for the School of Engineering at the Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in New York City. They discuss Cooper Union’s path toward becoming a 100% tuition-free institution by 2029 and the impact of its recent announcement providing free tuition for current seniors. The conversation also touches on the institution’s rich history, new academic programs, and vision for the future.

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Key Takeaways

• Free tuition announcement: Cooper Union surprised its senior class with full tuition scholarships, marking a significant milestone toward the goal of becoming tuition-free by 2029.
• Commitment to access and equity: Continuing Peter Cooper’s legacy, Cooper Union remains focused on providing equitable access to higher education.
• New computer science major: The institution is launching a new computer science program in Fall 2025, expanding opportunities for future students in technology and engineering fields.

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Episode Summary

What was the impact of Cooper Union’s surprise free tuition announcement for seniors?
Fatema Dalal describes the excitement and energy felt during the institution’s convocation when the announcement was made that all current seniors would receive free tuition. This gesture is part of Cooper Union’s larger commitment to returning to a fully tuition-free model by 2029, a hallmark of the institution’s history. The initiative represents a significant step toward alleviating financial burdens for students and reinforcing the college’s mission of access and equity.

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How does this move align with Cooper Union’s founding principles?
Cooper Union, founded in 1859 by Peter Cooper, has a long history of providing free education and promoting access regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic status. The return to free tuition is a continuation of the institution’s commitment to providing equitable opportunities in higher education. Dalal highlights the institution’s deep roots in social justice, from hosting the first Society for Women Engineers chapter to supporting major historical movements like women’s suffrage and civil rights. This legacy continues to inspire the institution’s modern-day initiatives, including the current push to reduce tuition costs and maintain its inclusive ethos.

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What does the future hold for Cooper Union’s academic offerings?
In addition to its tuition initiatives, Cooper Union is expanding its academic portfolio with the launch of a new computer science major, starting in Fall 2025. This program will offer a small cohort of about 27 students a highly specialized, interdisciplinary education in the heart of New York City. Cooper Union's distinctive blend of art, architecture, and engineering programs, combined with its close-knit community, positions it to remain at the forefront of innovative, interdisciplinary problem-solving, particularly in areas like sustainability and AI.

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Looking ahead, Dalal emphasizes that while Cooper Union is not focused on increasing enrollment, it is committed to remaining responsive to the evolving needs of both New York City and the global community. The institution will continue to offer a tight-knit, collaborative educational experience while staying aligned with emerging fields and challenges.

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Connect With Our Host:

Dr. Ray Lutzky

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