Arts degrees to cost $50,000 until at least 2027 despite Albanese reform promises, vice-chancellor says

Australia needs critical thinkers who develop ‘philosophy about the world’ by studying the arts, university warns

• Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates

• Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast

Students will be paying $50,000 for arts degrees until at least 2027, says one university vice-chancellor, despite the Albanese government labelling the controversial job-ready graduates scheme (JRG) that included an increase to some fees a “failure” and promising to reform it.

The Morrison government program increased the price of university degrees including arts, humanities and law, while reducing the cost for Stem degrees including mathematics and essential worker degrees including teaching and nursing.