University of Nebraska facing potential reduction of academic programs
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) is embarking on a comprehensive budget reduction process, aiming to cut approximately $27.5 million by the end of 202515. This process includes a thorough review of academic programs for potential elimination or mergers, aimed at streamlining the university and capitalising on its existing strengths1.
At the heart of this process is the Academic Planning Committee (APC), which has been convened to establish a framework for reviewing academic programs1. The APC will work alongside deans and department leaders, using proposed teaching and research metrics as objective measures to analyze academic programs1. These metrics will be combined with qualitative assessments to guide decisions on investment, continuation, or restructuring of programs1.
The criteria for program review and recommendations include teaching metrics such as enrollment and graduation rates, research metrics like scholarly output and external funding, and qualitative factors considering the program’s alignment with UNL’s strategic strengths and institutional mission1. The goal is to emerge from the process with a more streamlined and efficient university, maintaining its profile and impact while addressing fiscal constraints15.
The final budget reduction plan, including recommendations from the APC, is expected to be submitted to the Office of the President by late October 2025 for review and then considered by the Board of Regents in December 20251.
In addition to the budget reduction process, immediate cost-saving measures include extending the existing hiring freeze and offering a Voluntary Separation Incentive Program (VSIP) this fall1.
Chancellor Rodney D. Bennett presented this plan, acknowledging the challenges faced by the university, including their impact on employee morale1. The plan follows the Nebraska Board of Regents's approval of a 5% increase in tuition rates across the system's campuses1.
The university's revenue has not kept pace with its expenses due to downward trends in state appropriations, net tuition, and campus allocations, as well as historically high inflation of health care costs, property and liability premiums, and utilities1. The plan will be proposed to University of Nebraska System President Jeffrey Gold in late October1.
In a post on Monday, Bennett praised his colleagues for their professionalism and commitment to the success of their colleagues and students1. The goal also includes retaining the university's profile and impact, continuing its significant return of investment for the state of Nebraska, and positioning it to move forward toward aspirational goals, including being considered for readmission to the AAU15.
- Due to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) facing a budget deficit, the Academic Planning Committee (APC) has been formed to streamline academic programs, using a combination of teaching and research metrics, and qualitative assessments to guide decisions on investment, continuation, or restructuring of these programs.
- The University of Nebraska–Lincoln's budget reduction process, which includes potential academic program closures and a hiring freeze, aims to address fiscal constraints and maintain the university's profile and impact, while positioning it for future aspirational goals such as being considered for readmission to the AAU.
