Buffalo State University cuts deficit by cutting programs

This seems to be the current trend in colleges and universities. Unfortunately, due to low enrollment numbers, colleges are having to cut programs.

It was only a few weeks ago that we learned that Fredonia had to cut programs due to low enrollment and a significant deficit that needed to be reduced. Today we learned that Buffalo State University will do the same.

Buffalo State University cuts programs

Buff State announced the deactivation and shutdown of 37 programs. They include, but are not limited to, biology, chemistry, early childhood education, etc. The good news is that the programs that will be cut are considered low-performing programs and will only impact 34 students. Additionally, these students will have the opportunity to complete the program if they are already enrolled.

Other programs are under consideration

They continued to mention other programs that are currently under review and being considered for deactivation beginning with the spring 2025 semester. These programs include:

• Applied Mathematics, BS
• Ethics, minor
• Gerontology, minor
• GIS, minor
• Mathematical logic, certificate
• Non-Spanish and Chinese concentrations, certificate
• Engraving, minor
• Etching concentration, BFA and BA concentrations
• Religious studies, minor
• Insurance statistics, certificate

Declining enrollment is the reason for the cuts

One of the main reasons many of these programs are being cut is the lack of new enrollment. According to Spectrum News, the school has seen an enrollment decline of 42 percent over the past 10 years. However, they did see an increase in first-time undergraduate enrollment in fall 2023.