Weber State University Plans to Cut 17 Majors Amid Budget Cuts

In a bold move responding to state-imposed budget cuts, Weber State University (WSU) announced its intention to eliminate 17 academic majors, seven certificates, and eight minors. This restructuring is part of a broader initiative, mandated by recent legislation, aimed at reducing redundant programs across Utah's public higher education institutions. The state legislature collectively reduced the higher education budget by a staggering $60.5 million, prompting these schools to reevaluate their program offerings. The legislation, known as HB 265, indicates that schools can reclaim some of these funds if they remove 'low-performing' or 'inefficient' programs. WSU President Brad Mortensen assured current students in the affected programs would be allowed to complete their degrees, while new admissions to these programs will cease. Other institutions in the state are following suit; Utah State University plans to cut 14 academic programs altogether, and Utah Valley University has announced the closure of its Center for Intercultural Engagement due to budget constraints. The widespread nature of these cuts has generated significant concern among students, particularly regarding how these decisions were reached. Students voiced frustration over a perceived lack of transparency and communication in the decision-making process. Furthermore, the ramifications of these cuts extend beyond student concerns. Various positions within the faculty and staff will also be eliminated, translating to a major shake-up in the workforce at these institutions. As schools scramble to develop reinvestment plans by the end of May, many faculty members, especially those tenured, have expressed unease about their future. This situation raises critical questions about the direction of higher education in Utah and what these decisions mean for the students' educational pathways, especially in fields previously deemed essential. Cuts targeting humanities and social sciences amidst a push towards STEM and business degrees signal a shift that may not align with all student career aspirations, provoking discussions on the balance between funding efficiency and academic diversity.