University of North Texas to cut 70+ programs, including LGBTQ Studies

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On March 19, the University of North Texas (UNT) in Denton announced it would cut over 70 courses, including its LGBTQ Studies course, as part of broader budget reductions.

President Harrison Keller and Provost Michael A. McPherson sent a statement detailing the upcoming budget cuts for the fall 2026 semester.

The university plans to eliminate over 70 programs, including courses, minors, and certificates. The cuts are expected to save $45 million. 

The university cited declining enrollment, particularly among international students, as the reason for its significant budget cuts.

The enrollment decline contributed to a $32 million budget deficit for the upcoming fiscal year.

The university will allow currently enrolled students to complete their degree programs. New students will not be able to register for these majors or courses.

The cuts include three master’s programs, one undergraduate major, 25 undergraduate minors, 21 graduate programs, and 21 undergraduate certificates.

UNT ordered a review of its courses last fall as part of the budget planning process.

Some courses, including LGBTQ Studies and Women’s and Gender Studies, were eliminated as part of the budget cuts.

Texas university systems reviewed courses in response to federal directives issued during the Trump administration.

The review was conducted in response to H.B. 229, which recognizes only two genders, male and female. 

UNT has not confirmed whether the law influenced its decision to cut certain programs.

The university also plans to eliminate the Department of Linguistics, citing a “consistent decline.”

UNT said it continues to monitor its strategic budgeting model, which began in fall 2024, amid declining enrollment and sponsored research.

Monitoring the strategic budgeting model has helped identify budgeting issues for the upcoming school year.

The university also has a new strategic plan, Look North UNT 2030.

University officials emphasized the importance of the budget plan in maintaining program quality and financial stability.

Harrison Keller said, “We will continue to make strategic investments for the health of the university. Most importantly, we remain steadfast in our commitment to the long-term success of our students.”

UNT stated it aims to support staff and faculty as part of its long-term planning.

Keller and McPherson added at the end of their letter on March 19 that, “By making these difficult but necessary decisions, we will be able to strengthen the quality and impact of our current academic programs while investing in new areas that help us build momentum for the future.”

Campus Reform has reached out to the university for further comment.