Meeting the wishes of students and parents, Eastern Michigan University to again reduce costs for single rooms in residence halls as part of #EMUSafe initiative

A student works at his desk in a dorm room

YPSILANTI – Recognizing the ongoing interest in single rooms among students and their parents, Eastern Michigan University is again offering single rooms at a significantly reduced cost for the Fall 2021 semester (2021-22 academic year).

The University initially launched its single room discount program in Fall 2020 in response to student and parent interest. The single room initiative is part of Eastern’s overall #EMUSafe efforts that have resulted in the University having one of the lowest COVID-19 positive case counts among Michigan’s 15 public universities.

For the 2021-22 academic year, the cost of a single room will only be $1,000 more than students’ cost to live in a double room. In the past, single rooms cost $2,500 more than doubles. The move, approved by the EMU Board of Regents at its regular meeting Thursday, Feb. 18, will lower Eastern’s single room rates in residence halls by 16 - 18 percent, depending on the residence hall.

“We continue to listen closely to our students and parents,” said Eastern Michigan University President James Smith. “We know that some students prefer the roommate experience, and that’s great. Others want more privacy and to live in their own environment. Whatever their choice – students enjoy the benefits of dynamic residential programs and support.”

The new rates also provide for an increase of $180 per academic year, or $22.50 per month, for all double room occupants in the residence halls. Total double room rates will range from $5,450 to $5,980 annually.

Yearly apartment rates will increase from $120, or $15 per month, up to $200 per academic year or $25 per month, depending on the apartment building and type of accommodations. Total apartment rates will range from $4,750 to $8,034 annually.

The price increases and decreases will continue to support the University's ongoing investment in improving the quality of its residential facilities, while at the same time seeking to make housing rates affordable for Eastern Michigan University students and providing for their health and welfare amid the pandemic.

The Regents also approved a 3.0 percent increase in meal plans. The meal plan increase allows for the maintenance of quality food offerings within Eastern’s dining facilities.

The various housing rates represent an overall average increase of just 0.1 percent for EMU residence halls and apartments, compared to the Board-approved rates from academic year 2020-21.

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 16,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and, its graduate school. EMU is regularly recognized by national publications for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website.

February 18, 2021

Written by:
Geoff Larcom

Media Contact:
Geoff Larcom
glarcom@emich.edu
734-487-4400