University of Toledo Suspends Several Undergraduate Programs Amid New Legislation

TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – The University of Toledo has announced it will suspend multiple undergraduate programs due to new enrollment requirements under the Advance Ohio Higher Education Act. This legislation, recently enacted, includes changes that impact higher education institutions across Ohio.

The Act bans diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices on campuses, prohibits full-time faculty from striking, and mandates professors remain neutral on controversial issues. Additionally, the bill requires each course syllabus to be made publicly available online, necessitates students to pass a civics course, and bans state institutions from accepting donations from China.

According to a statement from the university, the legislation also compels institutions to eliminate programs that award fewer than five degrees annually over any three-year period. Starting in the 2025-2026 academic year, UToledo will suspend admissions to several of these affected undergraduate programs, noting that only 57 students are currently enrolled across the nine suspended majors.

Despite the suspension of admissions, UToledo will maintain these programs as minors. Students currently pursuing degrees in these areas will still be able to finish their studies. “Faculty will continue to teach courses that are part of minors, certificates or concentrations, as well as significant components of our core curriculum,” said Dr. Scott Molitor, interim provost and executive vice president of academic affairs.

UToledo spokespersons indicated that the university will assist incoming freshmen and transfer students affected by the program changes in exploring alternative majors that match their interests and goals.

Further details regarding the programs being suspended, based on annual reviews and recommendations from the Program Reallocation and Investment Committee, will be made available soon.