This study investigates public perceptions of postgraduate tuition fees in private universities in Edo State, Nigeria. The research is grounded in the broader context of higher education's role in individual and societal development, referencing key educational policies established by the Federal Government of Nigeria. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data was collected from 50 respondents aged 22 to 60, employing a stratified random sampling method to ensure diverse representation with descriptive statistics, including mean, median, mode, and standard deviation to analyze responses. The findings reveal significant trends in public opinion. Respondents generally disagree with the notion about private universities offer better value for postgraduate education compared to public universities, as indicated by lower mean values for questions related to university location and reputation. However, there is strong agreement on the reasonableness of tuition fees in private universities and the perceived higher quality of education they provide, evidenced by higher mean and median values for these questions. Mixed responses were noted regarding the critical factors influencing the choice of university, such as location and research opportunities. The study concludes that while there is a general positive sentiment towards the quality and value of education in private universities, cost remains a contentious issue. The variability in opinions suggests a need for targeted communication and policy adjustments to address diverse viewpoints. Recommendations include reinforcing policies in areas of strong agreement, investigating causes of dissatisfaction, and conducting further qualitative research to understand the divided opinions better. Overall, the research provides valuable insights into public perceptions of postgraduate tuition fees in private universities, highlighting areas of consensus and contention that can inform future educational policies and university practices
Author(s): Maxwell Scale Uwadia Osagie, Felicia Oare Ehimanre and Nelson Osamudiamen
