Closing Academic Programs: Pitfalls and Possibilities

As predictable as hand-wringing in difficult financial times, the idea of closing academic programs is back on the table at some institutions. It is clear that program closure has appealed to administrators coping with difficult financial circumstances in years past. However, the strategy is difficult to carry out well in practice; even raising the idea can cause unexpected ripples through the most previously calm campuses. Poorly executed, this strategy can result in votes of no confidence in administrative leaders during times when institutions can ill afford such turmoil. And yet there are times when the step makes sense and, if handled well, can actually improve a campus's focus and mission.