A new law which takes effect Aug. 1 could make it possible for thousands of veterans across the country to attend college. Containing the most comprehensive educational benefits since the original G.I. bill in 1944, the Post 9/11 G.I. Bill will provide for the cost of in-state undergraduate tuition and fees at any of Rhode Island’s public colleges, as well as a housing allowance and up to an annual $1,000 book stipend.

In a related matter, the Rhode Island Board of Governors for Higher Education recently approved a change in policy, which grants in-state tuition to veterans of any branch of the armed forces and any branch of the state’s National Guard. The new policy waives the one-year residency requirement. For more information, visit http://www.ribghe.org/veteranstuition.pdf.

Two years ago, the University of Rhode Island formed the URI Supports Student Veterans Committee to attract, retain, and support student veterans. Web pages with information for veterans were created and remain active on the Admission ( http://www.uri.edu/admission/Veterans.html) and Enrollment Services ( http://www.uri.edu/es/acadinfo/acadyear/veterans.html) Web sites.

The biotechnology manufacturing program at the University of Rhode Island will hold an information session June 16 at 6 p.m. in Room 207 of the Providence campus, 80 Washington St. Free parking is available at the Providence Convention Center.

Beginning in the fall, the curriculum in New England Institute of Technology’s associate degree program in electrical technology will be expanded to include renewable energy generation. Until now, students preparing for the degree had to take six quarters of classes. Now they must take seven. The extra classes will cover various sources of renewable energy from solar electricity and hot water to wind and geo-thermal power.

Former graduates of the college’s electrical technology program can also return to the campus to take the additional 10-week quarter.

Summer classes at the institute begin July 20. Registration will be held July 6. For more information, call 1(800) 736-7744 or (401) 739-5000, or visit www.neit.edu.