Heads of UC, CSU want big funding increases

By The Associated Press

Berkeley -- The heads of California's public university systems say they need more money from the state -- a lot more.

University of California President Mark Yudof says the 10-campus system needs a $913 million increase in state funding next year. Meanwhile, California State University Chancellor Charles B. Reed is recommending asking for an increase of $884 million for 2010-11.

Both are seeking the approval of their governing boards, which meet this week. 

UC and the 23-campus CSU -- the nation's largest public university system -- have taken deep cuts in state funding. Yudof and Reed say they hope the extra funding would help restore some campus cutbacks and prevent major fee increases. 

On Wednesday, UC's governing Board of Regents will consider raising student fees about 32 percent.

Read more about the cuts to CSU system on Education Now