Students walk across the campus of The Ohio State University
Students walk across the campus of The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio Megan Jelinger/AFP via Getty Images

ATHENS, Ohio (Sept. 4, 2025) — Ohio University plans to suspend admissions to 11 academic programs starting with the 2026–27 academic year, under requirements outlined in the recently enacted Advance Ohio Higher Education Act. The law mandates that public universities eliminate undergraduate programs averaging fewer than five degrees awarded annually over the past three years.

Degrees proposed for suspension include:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry – OHIO will continue to offer a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
  • Bachelor of Arts in Geological Sciences – OHIO will continue to offer a Bachelor of Science in Geological Sciences
  • Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics – OHIO will continue to offer a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
  • Bachelor of Arts in Physics – OHIO will continue to offer a Bachelor of Science in Physics
  • Associate of Applied Science in Electronic Media – The associate degree was offered at select regional campuses. The Athens campus will continue to offer related bachelor's degrees.
  • Associate of Applied Science in Equine Studies
  • Bachelor of Science in Education in Family and Consumer Sciences Education in Teaching
  • Associate of Applied Science in Child Development – OHIO will continue to offer a Bachelor of Early Childhood and Elementary Education
  • Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Flight Technology – OHIO will continue to offer a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Flight
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interdisciplinary Arts – OHIO will continue to offer a minor in Interdisciplinary Arts
  • Associate of Individualized Studies – OHIO will continue to offer a Bachelor of Specialized Studies

Provost Donald J. Leo led consultations with college deans and faculty to determine the appropriate course of action. He confirmed that no full-time faculty positions would immediately be impacted.

Additionally, Ohio University has proposed merging 18 programs with similar offerings, while requesting waivers for seven others deemed unique or aligned with workforce needs. If approved, merged programs will consolidate multiple degrees under broader parent programs, ensuring continuity for students and efficient academic structures.

Current students already enrolled in the affected programs will be allowed to complete their degrees as outlined in the university catalog. The institution emphasizes that the changes aim to fulfill state requirements while supporting student success and academic quality.