College cuts have been reduced by extra cash announced in a late change to the Holyrood Budget.
Finance Secretary John Swinney boosted funds by £10 million in the next financial year in a sector which was facing a £34.6 million cut.
The new total college fund of £522 million in 2013-14 will be matched in the following year, raising the level from an expected £471 million.
Mr Swinney announced the changes, which included more money for housing, during the passage of the Scottish Government's Budget Bill, which was agreed by 68 votes to 56.
Labour, Tory and Liberal Democrat MSPs all criticised the spending plan while the National Union of Students (NUS) immediately branded the 2013-14 college cut, which amounts to £24.6 million, "damaging".
Following the vote, Mr Swinney said: "Within the constraints of devolution, our Budget prioritises construction, skills, employment and a green economic stimulus.
"We have taken steps to mitigate the damage being done by Westminster welfare reforms and to make sure our public services are fit for the future.
"Through immediate infrastructure investment we are providing a boost to Scotland's construction sector and wider economy and we are also maintaining the most supportive business environment in the UK.
"This is what we are able to do with the limited powers at our disposal. With the full fiscal and economic powers of independence, the Scottish Government could do even more to strengthen our economy and create jobs."
Mr Swinney pledged an extra £38 million for housing, saying the money will help provide new homes and improve existing stock. The money will be split, with £10 million for "affordable" homes, £4 million to adapt and improve homes and £24 million for green energy schemes.
