Job Losses in Higher Education

A recent report indicates a troubling trend in the higher education sector, revealing a loss of over 300 jobs in December alone. This brings the total number of job cuts to more than 9,000 throughout 2025. It’s worth noting that these figures might actually be lower than reality, as many layoffs are likely unreported.

The report, published by Inside Higher Education, highlights multiple contributing factors. These include federal regulations imposed during President Trump’s administration that restricted international student admissions, rising operational costs, and a pervasive uncertainty in federal policies.

The report also states that many layoffs, including those at DePaul University, stemmed from a dramatic drop in international student enrollment, which has affected tuition revenue. In fact, DePaul cut 114 staff positions as a direct consequence of losing hundreds of international students.

Other institutions are similarly impacted. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln plans to eliminate 51 jobs, while Western Wyoming Community College has restructured its staff, cutting 33 positions. Notably, around 30 faculty members at the University of Kansas opted to leave voluntarily.

Moreover, Boston University is grappling with a $30 million budget deficit, having laid off 120 employees and closed an equal number of vacant positions. San Francisco State University anticipates that between 60 and 75 faculty members will take part in a buyout program, further reflecting the financial struggles faced by many institutions.

Bobby King, the communications director for San Francisco State University, mentioned that demographic shifts and changing student preferences necessitate tough decisions about faculty and program offerings. Similarly, Nicole Neily, from the group Defending Education, pointed out that the higher education system has been “bloated” for years, implying that it’s perhaps inevitable to see workforce reductions.

The complexities of the situation are evident. With growing skepticism about the value of a college education—fueled by rising costs and quality concerns—many institutions may need to reevaluate their operations. As Neil Neily concluded, it’s a chance for universities to determine their course moving forward.

White House spokesperson Liz Houston expressed that the administration feels fulfilled in its efforts to prevent wasteful spending on higher education, supporting the perspective that changes in this sector may be both necessary and long overdue.

Comments were sought from various universities affected by these cuts, but responses were not immediately available.