Buffalo State to cut 37 programs amid financial woes

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

The cuts affect early childhood education, chemistry and urban studies programs, as well as several in foreign languages, including French, Italian and Spanish. Beyond programs, other cuts include certification titles, concentrations, minors and certificates.

Twenty-seven of the 37 programs are being cut immediately, while another 10 are still under review for deactivation by spring 2025. The school says that the cuts will only affect 34 students, about 0.6% of the student population. Students currently enrolled in the programs will be able to complete their degrees.

The approach announced by the school has a goal to eliminate the school's $16.5 million structural deficit and maximize the investment into the SUNY system by Gov. Kathy Hochul's administration.

The university also stated that the previously announced 12-month hiring freeze will remain in place, as will a phased retirement program.

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

To see a full list of the programs cut, click here.