Research

SHOT: White House Domestic Policy Council Chair Melody Barnes: “This is something that we've been focused on, the high cost of college.” (MSNBC’s “Andrea Mitchell Reports,” 10/26/11)

 CHASER: Obama’s Plan “Only Reaches The Tip Of The Iceberg” While Ignoring The Increasing Costs Of Tuition And Jobs For Graduates.  “Consumer advocates who focus on student lending praised the effort as a first step but were plain that the initiative only reaches the tip of the iceberg. It chips away at student loan bills but does nothing to address soaring tuition costs, and the scores of recent graduates struggling to find jobs even with advanced degrees.” (Stacy Kaper, “Obama Student Loan Relief Is Modest But Could Prove Politically Smart,” National Journal, 10/26/11)

• The Cost Of College Is Currently At “An All Time High.” “Nationally, the cost of a full credit load has passed $8,000, an all-time high. Throw in room and board, and the average list price for a state school now runs more than $17,000 a year, according to the twin annual reports on college costs and student aid published Wednesday by the College Board.” (Justin Poe, “College Prices Up Again As States Slash Budgets,” The Associated Press, 10/26/11)