Purdue online degree to cost half of on-campus education

That equates to a total cost to graduation of $39,600 for a four-year degree, compared to an $80,088 total cost to graduation for students who live and learn on campus.

In addition, in-state graduate students will receive a 10-percent discount on NewU classes, while Purdue employees can earn NewU credits without paying any tuition as long as they maintain a "B" grade point average.

"It's fitting that one of this board's first actions is to approve a major tuition discount for Hoosiers and essentially free continuing education for Purdue employees," Purdue President Mitch Daniels said.

"It reflects Purdue's objective to be affordable for our students and commitment to the growth and development of all our co-workers."

Purdue established NewU in April after purchasing Kaplan's institutional operations and facilities.

The online school will remain distinct from existing Purdue campuses, and rely on tuition payments, not state appropriations, for funding.