Santa Monica College offers core classes at premium

College students have long complained that there are not enough spots for so-called "core courses."

Now, Santa Monica College in Southern California is offering extra sessions of these so-called high-demand classes, but they cost six times the normal rate. The standard fees are $36 per unit, but several math and English courses needed by almost every student will now cost $200 a unit.

Officials say it is necessary because of state funding cuts.