Michigan’s free community college shuts out rural universities. They want in.

Residents in rural Michigan communities may be deterred from pursuing higher education due to long commutes to nearby community colleges. Northern Michigan University, Lake Superior State University, Michigan Technological University and Ferris State University have long offered associate degrees and certificates to students in these areas.

These four schools are the only public universities out of 15 in Michigan that provide associate degrees. They are advocating for inclusion in the Community College Guarantee, a free tuition program for two-year college students. This would be a costly endeavor as the price per student would likely reach $18 million to $20 million annually.

However, meeting a state goal of having 60% of its residents with a postsecondary credential by 2030 is also proving challenging, with only 52% currently achieving this. The Growing Michigan Together Council, set up by Governor Gretchen Whitmer, recommended providing free college for two years for all residents, regardless of the institution.

Some state lawmakers are considering this expansion, recognizing the geographic barriers and the potential benefits for rural students.