Lynchburg to cut more programs

By Vannon Lail - Media Writing Student, University of Lynchburg                   3 March 2026

The University announced last fall that they will be cutting 12 undergraduate academic programs, and five graduate programs, including theatre arts and drama, would be discontinued after this year.

Many of the university officials, they say the decision reflects financial and ongoing enrollment challenges. But the announcement has raised concerns among students and faculty who worry on long-term academic opportunities. The latest cut affects both undergraduate and graduate programs, making another shift in its history. Leadership in the university says the reductions are part of a long-term plan to importantly stabilize the institution to be redirected to new and higher demand majors.

Professor of mathematics and Associate Dean at the University of Lynchburg, Dr. Mike Coco, said, “Well, it's unfortunate that some of them were cut. It will help us operate a little more efficiently and make some room for us to create some new, popular, and more programs that have students' interest”.

The decision was difficult but necessary to be able to continue restructuring to position the university for long-term success.

Junior and student commuter Micheal tock said, “I’m losing a whole year of shows and theatre classes because of the cuts. They were announced after my freshman year, and Mr. Wittman (Director) has had to fight every year to keep something available, but for my senior year, there will be nothing left of our department. There are still other performance opportunities thanks to the area, so I will be auditioning with other companies, but it’s really sick to promise an incoming student 4 years of education and opportunities only to take them away after 1”.

His experience is one of many students who say the cuts are disrupting their academic plans and what will soon look like their final years at the university.

For now, the university maintains that the changes are necessary to strengthen its academic future. Although many on campus remain uncertain about what the changes will mean in the long term, the university will be holding meetings throughout the semester to answer questions about the process for current students.

As the campus goes through a round of program changes, the university will continue to gather feedback from students, families, faculty, and alumni. We want to hear from you. Please come on tour on our campus and feel what home is like on campus.

Micheal tock:  (Insta-@tiringwheat4474)

Mike Coco- Email: (Coco@lycnhburg.edu)

Graphic Image credit: Facebook-University of Lynchburg Theatre Department