FORT SMITH, Ark. — The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith (UAFS) confirmed the elimination of five of its degrees after a board meeting on Wednesday.
Although all the degrees chosen to be taken away were completely eliminated, three will remain as a minor and certificate.
Last month when this decision was being considered, Dr. Terisa Riley, the chancellor of UAFS, said the university wouldn't enroll new students into the programs but that related classes to the degrees will still be taught. Riley also said any students currently enrolled in these programs will be able to complete their degree.
"A lack of enrollment has certainly been the driving factor. We're talking about 100 students total," UAFS Provost Dr. Shadow JQ Robinson said.
The Board of Trustees voted to approve the elimination of the following degrees:
- Computer-aided Design (AAS and related certificates)
- General Technology Automotive Concentration (AAS and related certificates)
- BA in Political Science (Still available for minor and certificate)
- BA in Spanish (Still available for minor and certificate)
- BA in Theatre (Still available for minor and certificate)
"When these programs were identified for possible elimination, we did a deeper dive where we also looked at how many students are seniors, juniors, sophomores, freshmen? What's the enrollment funnel looking like? How many students are applying?" Dr. Robinson said.
The Board of Trustees voted on Wednesday, March 13 to approve the elimination of the majors, with the Spanish, Theatre, and political science programs remaining as minors, a spokesperson with UAFS confirmed.
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