Full Breakdown
University of North Texas Cuts Over 70 Programs Amid Budget Deficit
3/24/2026, 7:59:21 AM
Overview of Program Cuts
The University of North Texas (UNT) is set to cut or consolidate more than 70 academic programs, minors, and certificates as part of a strategy to address a projected $45 million budget shortfall. This decision includes the phasing out of all linguistics degree programs and the elimination of a master’s program in women’s and gender studies. The university's leadership attributes the deficit primarily to a significant decline in international student enrollment, which typically contributes higher tuition revenue, alongside reduced state funding.
Details of the Cuts
The cuts encompass three master’s programs, one undergraduate major, 25 undergraduate minors, and over 40 certificate programs. Programs affected include women’s and gender studies, LGBTQ studies, Mexican American studies, Africana studies, Asian studies, dance, geology, and special education. Students currently enrolled in these programs will be allowed to complete their degrees, but no new admissions will be accepted. The university plans to merge the linguistics department with the Department of World Languages, Literatures, and Cultures, effective September 1.
Financial Context
UNT's budget deficit has been exacerbated by a drop in international student enrollment, which has been attributed to changes in federal immigration policies that have made it more challenging for these students to enroll and remain in the United States. UNT President Harrison Keller noted that the university had previously experienced growth in international student enrollment, which contributed significantly to its financial stability.
Criticism and Opposition
The decision to cut programs has faced criticism from faculty and students. William Salmon, chair of the linguistics department, expressed that faculty were not consulted prior to the announcement. Grace Youngberg, a third-year linguistics major, voiced her shock and disappointment, stating that the decision felt disrespectful and questioned the university's focus on "time to value" in education, arguing that the value of linguistics extends beyond monetary considerations.
Official Statements
In a message to faculty and staff, Keller and Provost Michael McPherson emphasized the need for the university to adapt to the changing needs of students and employers. They stated, “We must adapt to meet the changing needs of our students, employers and communities across Texas and beyond.” The university has also offered buyouts to faculty with at least 15 years of service as part of its cost-cutting measures.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While UNT officials have not disclosed the expected savings from these cuts or the potential impact on faculty and staff positions, there remains uncertainty about how many faculty members have applied for buyouts and whether layoffs will occur if the desired reductions are not achieved. Additionally, it is unclear how the university determined which programs to eliminate or consolidate.
What's Next
As UNT implements these changes, it plans to shift more lectures online, with over 40 courses transitioning to a model that combines online lectures with smaller in-person discussion groups. The university's ongoing review of its programs and the impact of these cuts on the broader academic landscape in Texas will be closely monitored.
