大学学费暴涨，什么信号？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising trend of university tuition fees in China, highlighting the shift from affordable education to a more expensive model, which reflects the changing dynamics of higher education and its implications for families and students [4][10][15]. Summary by Sections Tuition Fee Increases - Many universities across China have raised tuition fees, with an average increase of about 10%. Some provincial universities have seen increases between 500 to 2000 yuan, while private institutions have raised fees even more significantly, with some programs costing nearly 50,000 yuan per year [6][10]. Historical Context and Funding Changes - Historically, Chinese universities were heavily subsidized by the government, with tuition fees remaining stable for nearly 20 years. However, since 1999, the number of university students has surged, leading to increased financial pressure on institutions. By 2025, the number of university graduates is expected to reach 12.22 million, up from 1.5 million in 1999, creating a funding gap as government support decreases [7][10]. Financial Strategies of Universities - In response to rising costs, both public and private universities are increasing tuition fees. Private institutions often rely on a model of "expansion + high prices + low costs," while public universities are adopting cost-saving measures such as outsourcing services and monetizing campus resources [14][15]. Economic Implications for Families - The rising tuition fees pose significant financial burdens on families, with the cost of one child's education potentially consuming an entire year's salary for an average worker. The average monthly salary for recent graduates is around 6,050 yuan, which is insufficient to cover the rising costs of education [11][17]. Employment and Degree Value - The article notes a phenomenon of "degree inflation," where the number of graduates is increasing faster than job opportunities, leading to a situation where many graduates are employed in jobs unrelated to their fields of study. This has resulted in a growing number of graduates pursuing further education to avoid immediate employment pressures [17][18]. Socioeconomic Divide - The rising costs of higher education are creating a divide where access to university education is increasingly determined by financial capability rather than merit. This shift raises questions about the value of higher education and its accessibility to all segments of society [15][20].