On October 12, Penn State shared final recommendations from a review of all 403 of its bachelor’s and associate degree programs. It recommended closing 47, citing low student demand, employment opportunity, program realignment and other factors. Nine of the 47 have no enrolled students, and 24 would continue to be offered through another Penn State college. Of 68,390 undergraduates enrolled in spring 2026, 784, about 1.1 percent, are in programs recommended for closure; Penn State says it will develop teach-out plans so they can complete their degrees. The Faculty Senate reviews the recommendations before the provost makes final decisions.
What this means for your student
At Penn State, many of the affected programs are at regional campuses. Before adding a college to the list for a specific major, confirm the major is offered at the campus your student would attend, and ask the admissions office whether it is under review.
Related reading
- States and Universities Cut Hundreds of Academic Programs
- How to Build a College List That Actually Works
Sources: Penn State News (October 12, 2026); Higher Ed Dive.