Exceptional tuition increases approved for four programs

The Minister of Advanced Education has approved exceptional tuition increases (ETIs) for four programs at the University of Alberta. The ministry approved ETIs for the Master of Nursing programs for less than what the U of A applied for.

Alberta currently has a two per cent cap on how much universities can increase domestic students’ tuition. However, universities can apply for ETIs for the purpose of improving program quality. The Minister of Advanced Education is responsible for giving ETIs the final approval.

Universities are required to report to student associations on the improvements to the programs subject to ETIs.

In December 2025, the Board of Governors approved the U of A’s proposal to apply for four ETIs. The U of A applied to increase the Master of Education in Educational Psychology tuition by 50 per cent. It also applied to increase both course- and thesis-based tuition for the Master of Nursing program by 75 per cent and the Doctor of Philosophy in nursing program by 20 per cent.

The Minister of Advanced Education approved the ETIs for the Master in Educational Psychology and the Doctor of Philosophy in the nursing program as submitted. 

Master of Nursing approved for a lower increase

The ministry approved only a 20 per cent increase to the Master of Nursing programs. The increases apply to new domestic students beginning their studies this fall. ETIs do not apply to current students.

U of A media relations told The Gateway in an email that the U of A will adjust the scope of its planned improvements to the Master of Nursing programs in light of the reduced ETIs. 

It said that the increases will impact 15 to 25 new Master of Nursing students. 

“We recognize that any tuition increase presents challenges for students,” media relations said. “The university has financial supports in place to help students when needed, and a minimum of 15 per cent of total revenue from ETIs is directed back into centrally managed student financial support.”

“These steps are not taken lightly and are only initiated when a change to a program is needed to improve learning quality and the student experience,” they added.

The improvements to all programs with ETIs include improved student supports, technology upgrades, and Indigenous initiatives.

McDougall said in a written statement to The Gateway that “The Government of Alberta recognizes the importance of nursing education and the need to support high-quality programs, while balancing the financial impact on students.”

He also said that the decision to approve a lower ETI for Master of Nursing programs “reflects our commitment to maintaining quality programs while ensuring tuition remains affordable for students.”

The Nursing Graduate Students’ Association declined to comment on the ETIs in the faculty of nursing. The Graduate Students’ Association did not respond to The Gateway’s request for comment before deadline.

CORRECTION: A correction was issued at 2:05 p.m. to amend that 15 to 25 new Master of Nursing students will be impacted by the increases, not 15 of 25 students.