State officials want to limit a tuition increase in the Kentucky Community and Technical College system. School officials say they need a higher increase, because they invest far more in equipment and infrastructure than other state schools.

Students planning to attend Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College in the fall spent the day at the Harlan Campus learning about what to expect. One thing they aren't looking forward to a tuition increase.

"Families can't afford college like they used to," said incoming nursing student Fred Williams.

And school officials say they can't afford to offer the same quality education without a 13 percent increase, but the Council on Postsecondary Education recommended to limit the increase at just more than five percent.

"It really is disappointing and it reflects I think a fundamental lack of understanding on the part of CPE about the KCTCS and Southeast Mission," said SKCTC President Dr. Bruce Ayers.

Ayers says it means cuts to several specialized training programs, holding off on new projects, leaving up to 20 positions unfilled, and offering fewer scholarships. Machine tool technology educators say it means less equipment like a $50,000 dollar machine that trains students to be well-paid manufacturers in high demand.

"They have retired off, and there's not as many that went back in to fill the positions, so it's pretty well guaranteed a job," said Associate Professor Michael Carmack.

Some students say they could handle a 13 percent increase on one hundred fifteen dollars per credit hour.

"I think it would be a good investment," said incoming nursing student Brittany Shown.

Others say a smaller increase is necessary to keep college affordable.