Utah to Cut 81 Academic Programs Under State Law

The University of Utah is eliminating 81 academic programs, including those in chemistry teaching, theater, modern dance, mining engineering, and foreign languages, as mandated by a new state law focused on workforce alignment and high-wage career pathways. The cuts mainly affect graduate-level and humanities programs and were approved by the university's Board of Trustees, pending final state approval. These programs have had minimal enrollment or degree conferrals, with most graduating one or no students in the past eight years. The decision is part of a $19.6 million reduction in the university's instructional budget, which itself is part of a broader $60.5 million cut to Utah's public higher education system. Under House Bill 265, institutions must reinvest savings into programs with stronger job prospects, with implementation targets set through 2028. Students currently enrolled in discontinued programs will receive support to complete their degrees or transition to alternative academic paths.