Ohio University Suspends 11 Academic Programs Under New State Law
Athens, Ohio – Ohio University has announced it will suspend 11 academic degree programs following the implementation of Senate Bill 1, a new Ohio law that went into effect on June 27 and reshaped higher education across the state.
The law, widely recognized for restricting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives at public universities, also requires institutions to discontinue programs that graduate fewer than five students annually over a three-year period.
After reviewing its academic offerings, Ohio University found 36 programs that fell below the threshold and confirmed on Wednesday that 11 degrees will be phased out, including:
- Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry*
- Bachelor of Arts in Geological Sciences*
- Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics*
- Bachelor of Arts in Physics*
- Associate of Applied Science in Electronic Media
- Associate of Applied Science in Equine Studies
- Bachelor of Science in Education in Family and Consumer Sciences Education in Teaching
- Associate of Applied Science in Child Development*
- Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Flight Technology*
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interdisciplinary Arts
- Associate of Individualized Studies
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(*Students will still be able to pursue a Bachelor of Science in chemistry, geological sciences, mathematics, and physics.)
University leaders emphasized that currently enrolled students will be able to complete their studies and that no immediate impact on full-time faculty is expected.
Waivers and Program Adjustments
Ohio University has submitted seven waiver requests to the state in hopes of preserving certain unique or workforce-driven programs. Among them are the Bachelor of Science in Economics, Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science, and Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy.
Additionally, 18 other low-enrollment degree programs will not be eliminated outright but will instead be merged into existing majors. These include African American Studies, Religious Studies, multiple Geography tracks, Spanish Education, Art History, Studio Art, Theater, French, and several Music disciplines such as Instrumental Performance, Composition, and Vocal Arts.
Compliance Deadline
All Ohio public universities are required to finalize their degree eliminations or mergers by September 25, 2024. Ohio University said its academic teams are already preparing curricular adjustments to ensure a smooth transition for students.
This move reflects a broader shift in Ohio’s higher education system, with universities being forced to reassess low-enrollment programs under Senate Bill 1 while still balancing student needs and workforce demand.
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