Buffalo State to cut 37 programs due to financial woes

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Buffalo State University is set to cut 37 low-performing programs amid school-wide financial woes, the school announced Thursday.

The cuts affect early childhood education, chemistry and urban studies programs, as well as several foreign language programs, including French, Italian and Spanish. Beyond programs, other reductions include credentials, concentrations, minors and certificates.

Twenty-seven of the 37 programs are being eliminated immediately, while 10 others are still under consideration for deactivation by spring 2025. The school says the cuts will only affect 34 students, or about 0 .6% of the student population. Students currently enrolled in the programs will be able to graduate.

The school’s announced approach aims to eliminate the school’s $16.5 million structural deficit and maximize investment in the SUNY system by Gov. Kathy Hochul’s administration.

The university also said the previously announced 12-month hiring freeze would remain in effect, as would the phased retirement program.

The school has seen an enrollment decrease of 42% over the past decade, but saw an increase in first-time undergraduate enrollment in fall 2023.

To see the full list of removed programs, click here.