Story perspectives

EMU Restructures Programs, Boosts Enrollment Amid Fundraising Success

9/27/2025

Summary

Story summary

Eastern Mennonite University (EMU) will phase out low-enrollment majors, including chemistry and economics, starting fall 2025, adding criminology and finance.
LovEMU Giving Day raised over $365,000, supporting a $40 million campaign.
The Class of 2029 enrollment rose 10% as EMU restructures divisions and adds two deans.
The pathways curriculum launches Fall 2026 to better align education with market needs.

History

Historical Context

In 2015, the University of California system cut 10% of its majors due to declining enrollment, reflecting a broader trend in higher education. Similarly, Eastern Mennonite University is phasing out low-enrollment programs like chemistry and economics while introducing criminology and finance. This strategic shift aims to align academic offerings with workforce needs, contributing to a 10% growth in the Class of 2029 and a $40 million fundraising campaign.

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Story summary

Eastern Mennonite University (EMU) will phase out low-enrollment majors, including chemistry and economics, starting fall 2025, adding criminology and finance.
LovEMU Giving Day raised over $365,000, supporting a $40 million campaign.
The Class of 2029 enrollment rose 10% as EMU restructures divisions and adds two deans.
The pathways curriculum launches Fall 2026 to better align education with market needs.

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