CHANGES to the upper limit universities are allowed to charge students will have “profound” effects on university life according to a York vice-chancellor.

The coalition government has announced that universities in England will be able to charge tuition fees of up to £9,000 per year.

Fees will rise to £6,000 – with an upper tier of £9,000, if universities ensure access for poorer students. Universities Minister David Willetts said it was a “progressive” reform.

But Professor David Fleming, York St John University’s vice- chancellor, said: “The implications of the shift of funding from grants to increased fees and a student loan system will be profound for all universities in the sector, including York St John University.

“If the proposals are carried they may well affect what universities provide and how they provide it. However, the value of a university education remains compelling and as a teaching-led institution students are at the heart of all that we do.”

The National Union of Students dubbed the plan, which will mean almost a threefold increase in tuition fees, “an outrage”.

A spokesman for the University of York said: “A strong, well-funded and globally competitive higher education sector is essential to the country’s interests. “The University of York is a world-leading institution which makes a vital contribution to our economy, society and culture.

“We are committed to maintaining the excellence of our academic provision and ensuring that no student is prevented from studying at York because of lack of funds.”