University of Toledo Suspends Multiple Degree Programs Amid Legislative Changes

TOLEDO, Ohio — In response to the passing of Senate Bill 1, which bans diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in higher education, the University of Toledo (UToledo) has announced the suspension of several undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The changes, which will take effect starting with the 2025-2026 academic year, reflect the shifting landscape of higher education in Ohio and other states where similar legislation is being enacted.

The undergraduate programs set to be suspended include a variety of liberal arts and social science disciplines, such as:

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Africana Studies

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Asian Studies

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Data Analytics

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Disability Studies

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Middle East Studies

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Philosophy

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Religious Studies

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Spanish

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Women’s and Gender Studies

Although admissions to these programs will be suspended, UToledo emphasized that these disciplines will remain available as minors. Students currently enrolled in these programs will be able to complete their degrees as planned. Additionally, faculty will continue teaching courses within these fields as part of minors, certificates, and the university’s core curriculum.

“While there may not be significant demand for these specific majors at this time, we are committed to offering students opportunities to engage with these subjects through other avenues,” said Dr. Scott Molitor, interim provost and executive vice president of academic affairs at UToledo.

In addition to the undergraduate suspensions, UToledo also revealed that several graduate programs will be impacted. These include:

• Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) in Organizational Leadership and Management

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Information Administration

• Master of Arts (M.A.) in Philosophy

• Master of Arts (M.A.) in Sociology

• Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Research and Measurement

• Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Technology

• Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Psychology

• Master of Music (M.M.) in Music Performance

• Master of Science (M.S.) in Geology

• Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction: Early Childhood

• Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction: Educational Technology

• Ph.D. in Foundations of Education: Research and Measurement

The university has assured incoming students who were admitted to the suspended programs that they will be contacted to explore alternative academic options. These students will be provided with guidance to help them select programs that align with their academic and career goals.

The decision to suspend these programs is directly linked to Senate Bill 1, which restricts the promotion of DEI initiatives within state-funded higher education institutions. This legislation has been a focal point of debate in Ohio and across the nation, with proponents arguing that it seeks to prevent what they consider to be the politicization of education, while critics warn that it could limit academic diversity and reduce opportunities for underrepresented groups in academia.

As the University of Toledo navigates these changes, it is clear that the impact of Senate Bill 1 will be felt across the state’s higher education system, reshaping how universities approach academic offerings, diversity, and inclusion. UToledo’s leadership has pledged to support students through the transition, ensuring that alternative pathways and academic resources remain available.

The full effects of these legislative changes on the state’s academic landscape will likely unfold in the coming years as other universities evaluate their programs in light of similar legislative restrictions.