Universities will still be allowed to charge more for certain classes or majors. But such charges would be stated up front, billed as "differential tuition."

Under the proposal, some of the revenue generated would be reserved to cover the costs of students who want to take the more expensive classes, but can't afford the extra fees.

"We thought it was really important that students didn't decide their major based on what it would cost," said Monique Teal, a student from Southern Oregon University who worked on the proposal.

Frohnmayer, a former state Attorney General, told the state board last month that the University of Oregon needs more control over its own financial destiny, in order to maintain quality and attract top-tier faculty and students.

"We absolutely support clarity and transparency in the fees we charge," said Frances Dyke, vice president for finance and administration at the University of Oregon. "But the institutions do need the ability to tailor tuition and fee schedules to their particular programs. One size does not fit all."

Jay Kenton, vice chancellor for finance and administration for the Oregon University System, said the changes should give universities more flexibility in tuition proposals, since fees are off the table. And he said the legislature could have forced a cutback in fee levels, which the new proposal would preclude.

The plan going in front of the higher education board will need to be reviewed by the legislature. That could come when the body meets in February.