(Carbondale, IL)  —  A degree at Southern Illinois University’s main campus could soon cost almost 40-thousand dollars.  SIU-Carbondale leaders yesterday said they’re considering a nearly four-percent tuition increase starting next fall.  The total cost of a degree would be just under 38-thousand dollars if a student can finish in four years.  SIU leaders say the tuition increase would pay for university expenses and is not related to Illinois’ budget crisis.