Overview
The Instructionally Related Activities (IRA) fee was established to support educational experiences and activities that enhance the core academic mission of the institution. Governed by CSU Executive Order 1102, the IRA fee provides critical funding for initiatives that extend learning beyond the classroom. At CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI), increasing the IRA fee will strengthen the university’s ability to deliver a well-rounded educational experience, addressing the growing demand for academic, cultural, and extracurricular opportunities.
Key programs funded by the IRA fee include hands-on research at the Santa Rosa Island Research Center, arts and cultural events such as Art Under the Stars and Noche de Familia, and essential academic support services like the Writing & Multiliteracy Center (WMC) and Learning Resource Center (LRC). These initiatives foster academic success, global awareness, and community engagement, while also aligning with CSUCI's mission as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) to diversify educational pathways and prepare students for future success.
Despite its critical role, the IRA fee has remained unchanged at $60 per semester since Fall 2015. This stagnation has created a gap between available resources and growing programmatic needs, limiting CSUCI’s ability to deliver the high-impact learning practices essential to student success.
Historical Award Summary and Expenditures
2023–2024 IRA Award Cycle
- Total Funding Proposals Submitted: $1.1 million+
- Total Budget Allocated: $725,090
- Total Expended to Date: $712,106
- Top Six Expenditure Categories:
- Student Assistants: $243,881 (34.18%)
- Out-of-State Travel: $136,314 (19.11%)
- In-State Travel: $78,610 (11.02%)
- Conferences & Meetings: $71,988 (10.09%)
- Professional Services: $59,251 (8.30%)
- Honorarium Fees: $41,403 (5.80%)
2024–2025 IRA Award Cycle
- Total Funding Proposals Submitted: $1.1 million+
- Total Budget Allocated: $724,048
Proposed Solution
To address the funding shortfall, an increase in the IRA fee is proposed, effective for the 2025-2026 academic year. This modest adjustment will secure essential funding for existing programs, support new initiatives, and ensure that CSUCI remains competitive and responsive to student needs. To address inflation and rising operational costs, the fee will also be adjusted annually in alignment with the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Pros of Raising the IRA Fee
- Expanded Global Awareness and Cultural Understanding
- Broader opportunities for international studies, cultural exchanges, and global partnerships.
- Support for guest speakers, workshops, and events that promote intercultural competencies.
- Accessible Study Abroad Programs
- Increased financial aid for study abroad, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all students.
- Enhanced Support for Student Research and Creative Activities
- Funding for research opportunities that improve retention and reduce time to graduation.
- Greater alignment with HSI commitments to diversify academic pipelines.
- Improved Academic Support Services
- Enhanced tutoring and coaching resources provided by the WMC and LRC.
- Higher academic performance and skill development for students utilizing these services.
- Sustainable Program Growth
- Investments in seminars, workshops, and recognition programs that enrich the student experience.
- CPI alignment to ensure funding stability and long-term program viability.
- Equity and Inclusion
- Strengthened programs that support diverse student populations, including first-generation and underrepresented students.
Cons of Raising the IRA Fee
- Increased Cost of Attendance: Potential financial burden on students already managing high living costs.
- Risk of Reduced Enrollment: Higher fees could deter low-income prospective students from attending CSUCI.
- Increased Demand for Financial Aid: Potential strain on university resources, limiting funding for other essential programs.
- Equity Concerns: Disproportionate impact on underrepresented and low-income students.
Why This Matters
The proposed IRA fee increase is a vital step in maintaining and enhancing the quality of education and student experience at CSUCI. By supporting diverse learning opportunities, research initiatives, and essential student services, the fee increase will ensure that CSUCI remains a leader in delivering transformative and inclusive education. The modest adjustment will empower students to thrive academically and socially, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for a dynamic and interconnected world.