Rhode Island College to Suspend Several Programs Amid Resource Reallocation
Rhode Island College (RIC) has announced the suspension of numerous academic programs, including degrees in Art Education, English (Creative Writing), and Health Sciences, as part of a strategic resource reallocation effort. RIC President, Warner, emphasized that all currently enrolled students in the affected programs will be able to complete their degrees as initially planned. Notably, no faculty positions will be lost due to these changes, aiming instead to enhance the effectiveness of the college’s offerings.
Warner stated that this decision may come as a surprise to some within the RIC community and acknowledged the uncertainty that often accompanies such changes. He framed the review as a necessary part of maintaining the college’s curriculum, which has not been comprehensively evaluated in some time.
The affected programs include Art History, Gender Studies, and multiple concentrations in Education and Modern Languages. Data revealed that ten of these programs are projected to see no graduates this year, with others experiencing minimal enrollment. The English (Creative Writing) and Art History programs are among the few slated to graduate students.
Warner anticipates some disagreement regarding these findings but assures that administrators will engage with program leaders to address concerns. The goal is to create a dynamic array of academic offerings that respond to student demand, a sentiment echoed across higher education institutions nationwide, which have been reassessing programs in light of fluctuating enrollments and budget constraints after federal COVID relief funds have diminished.
Despite these challenges, RIC has stabilized its budget and reported an enrollment peak of over 6,000 students this year, the highest since 2019. Warner concluded that while progress has been made, further efforts are necessary for continued growth and adaptation.
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