CARBONDALE — To support students as they pursue a first-class education in academic year 2025-26, Southern Illinois University Carbondale will implement a new mental health fee, at the request of students, and SIU myTextbooks to ensure students have all of the course materials they need on the first day of classes for the lowest possible cost, the SIU Board of Trustees approved Thursday.
“We will continue to provide a high-quality education as a Research 1 institution that offers undergraduate, graduate and professional degree seeking students an excellent value,” said Chancellor Austin A. Lane. “Southern continues to honor its tradition of providing an accessible education to students from throughout the state, nation and world.
“With these initiatives, we are showing our commitment to removing barriers for our students and helping them attain their degrees.”
Paying less for textbooks
Beginning this fall, Lane said, students will pay significantly less for textbooks and other materials. According to the National Center on Educational Statistics, the average cost of textbooks in 2022-23 at public in-state 4-year institutions was $1,220, about $41-$51 per credit hour for a full-time student. Through a partnership with North America’s largest campus retailer, Follett Higher Education, SIU students will pay just $26 per credit hour to obtain all course materials identified by faculty as necessary.
“Not only does SIU myTextbooks help students save up to 60% on their required course materials, but it can also improve academic performance and help students complete their studies, instead of deferring classes due to course material costs and access issues. This leads to higher outcomes and better graduation rates,” said Tena Bennett, assistant vice chancellor for auxiliary enterprises and student affairs.
Studies found that the course completion rate was more than 15% higher for students taking advantage of the offer and the average increase in grade point average was about 2.3%. Researchers also noted that the impact on course completion rates and GPAs was even higher among underrepresented student populations.
“We work hard to meet campus communities where they are, addressing their needs so they can focus on academic success,” said Emmanuel Kolady, chief executive officer of Follett, which has more than 150 years of experience in the education industry and a presence on more than 1,000 campuses in the U.S. and Canada. “We’re honored to join forces with SIU Carbondale to enhance the campus retail operation while also offering Follett Access to help more students excel and succeed in the classroom.
“SIU myTextbooks is a powerful program that enables colleges and universities to deliver all course materials – textbooks, lab kits, supplies, etc. – as part of tuition and fees. With this program, students have what they need on the first day of class, stress-free and effortlessly – which levels the playing field for all students, regardless of economic background or social status.”
SIU myTextbooks is simple and convenient, officials said. Students are automatically enrolled in the digital-first program when they register for classes and can choose to opt out. With the program, they won’t have to worry about sourcing, purchasing or integrating their digital and physical required materials as the campus store – through Follett – will complete the process.
Digital SIU myTextbooks materials are automatically revised as student course selections change. If any physical material changes are needed due to course changes, students will receive an email from the University Bookstore with pickup and shipping information. Campus officials will work with the Office for Access and Accommodations to address any accessibility concerns students may have. Billing is through the student’s bursar’s office statement, and financial aid may cover the cost, just as it does other fees.
The program covers all students and programs, with the exception of nursing; planning is underway for an alternative plan for nursing students.
Through their constituency groups, students have expressed support for a new fee to allow for continued affordable health services while also providing the necessary mental health and wellness support to a diverse student population. The new Salukis Mental Health Fee is $7 per credit hour.
“I thank our students for taking the lead on this issue to support mental health care and ensure they and their peers have all their needs met,” Lane said. “This initiative will play an important role for our students to have success from orientation to graduation.”