Rhode Island College Suspends 20 Degree Programs

Categories: College University AthleticsCollege/University NewsEducation

Students engage in activities on the Rhode Island College campus amidst recent program changes.

News Summary

Rhode Island College is suspending 20 degree programs and consolidating 15 others due to low student interest. Despite the changes, the college is committed to supporting current students and does not anticipate faculty layoffs. The decision reflects a growing trend among colleges to reassess offerings in light of financial realities. College President Jack R. Warner emphasized the importance of adapting to student needs while maintaining stable enrollment numbers.

Rhode Island College Makes Big Changes: 20 Degree Programs Suspended!

In a significant shake-up, Rhode Island College has announced the suspension of 20 degree programs and the consolidation of 15 others, a decision spurred by dwindling interest from students. College President Jack R. Warner shared the news through an email to the campus community on April 16, shedding light on the institution’s response to changing academic needs.

What’s Happening?

As part of a careful examination known as the “Program Productivity and Efficiency Process” that took place this past spring, the college has chosen to suspend enrollment in these programs starting this fall. This means that incoming students will no longer have the option to join these particular fields of study.

The decision comes after data revealed a troubling trend: several of the programs were expected to see no graduates this year, with other programs bracing for only a handful of completions. For instance, the art history program is projected to have only six graduates, while some other suspended programs are on track for single-digit completions as well.

The Suspended Programs

So, which programs are being affected? Here’s a list of the 20 that will no longer accept new students:

Art Education BFA
Art Education MA
Art History BA
English MA (Creative Writing)
Gender Studies BA
Global Studies BA
Health Sciences – Respiratory Therapy
Health Sciences – Dental Hygiene
Liberal Studies BA
Elementary Education MED Early Childhood Education
Secondary Education BA General Science
Technology Education BS in Teaching
Technology Education BS in Applied Technology
Music Education MED
Bachelor of Arts in French and Portuguese
Bachelor of Arts in Francophone Studies, Latin American Studies, and Portuguese

Supporting Current Students

The college is mindful of the students already enrolled in these programs and is working on “teach-out plans” to ensure they can finish their degrees. This move shows the commitment to the existing student body, even as the institution pivots to better align with what students are seeking.

No Faculty Cuts

Addressing concerns about faculty jobs, Warner mentioned that there are no expected layoffs linked to these program changes. This is a relief for many, considering how closely institutional changes can impact employment in higher education. Warner pointed out that evaluating low-demand programs should be part of a continuous operational process, underlining the necessity for colleges to stay adaptable.

A Larger Trend?

Rhode Island College isn’t alone in this endeavor. The move aligns with a broader trend that has seen many colleges across the nation reassess their academic offerings due to financial strains and operational costs. As finances tighten, schools are increasingly scrutinizing program efficiency and demand, making tough but necessary decisions.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenging changes, Rhode Island College has experienced a positive trend in the last couple of years. With enrollment numbers stabilizing and surpassing 6,000 students—the highest since 2019—the college is positioned to support its core programs better while navigating financial realities.

In short, while these changes may seem drastic, they reflect a real-time response to the shifting landscape of higher education. Rhode Island College is making sure it remains a strong institution, capable of meeting the needs of its students in the ever-evolving world of academia.