University of Toledo Suspends Nine Majors Under New Ohio Law

The University of Toledo will suspend nine undergraduate majors—including Africana studies, Asian studies, data analytics, disability studies, Middle East studies, philosophy, religious studies, Spanish, and women’s and gender studies—beginning with the 2025-26 school year to comply with Ohio's new Senate Bill 1. The law, taking effect in June, mandates the elimination of degree programs that average fewer than five graduates annually over three years and bans diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices and initiatives at public universities. University officials emphasized that current students may complete their degrees and that these disciplines will remain available as minors. Senate Bill 1 also introduces additional measures such as regulating classroom discussion, prohibiting faculty strikes, and subjecting faculty to post-tenure reviews. Some university officials noted that the decision aligns with ongoing reviews of low-enrollment programs, a common practice, but attributed these specific program cuts directly to the new legislation. The law has sparked controversy and efforts, including petitions, to put its repeal to a public vote.