Don't Eliminate, Consolidate!

The financial struggles of small and mid-sized colleges and universities is hardly newsworthy anymore. Especially in rural parts of the United States. These institutions are finding it harder and harder to attract and retain students, and thus continue the academic programs they have offered for years. The New York Times recently highlighted an example of these issues at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, with the article, Students in Rural America Ask, ‘What Is a University Without a History Major?’.

Stevens Point Chancellor Bernie Patterson and Provost Greg Summers have proposed the elimination of academic programs in history, French and German. Students, faculty and staff are understandably upset and concerned about this being a slippery slope, setting the stage for more program elimination in the future.

It’s a tough situation all around. And perhaps some programs simply should not be offered everywhere. But the elimination of history? How can we teach virtually any subject if we do not have a fundamental understanding of where we’ve been and how to learn from our societal mistakes?

Setting aside the argument of the value of a liberal arts education, what’s important to consider here is that it’s possible to do both. It’s possible to continue these academic offerings while also enjoying a cost savings. An institution and its leaders must simply innovate to do so.

There are far too many means of collaboration at the disposal of university administrators today that can help to stave off these painful cuts. From online programs with technology partners to shared programs with neighboring institutions to full-on mergers and consolidations, there are other options. The enrollment and budgetary struggles are real, but so are modern solutions that can pave the way forward for courageous university leaders.

To learn more about opportunities for partnership and collaboration with our experienced team of university consultants, contact us today.