OKLAHOMA CITY (OBV) — The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education have completed a sweeping review of low-producing degree programs across all public colleges and universities, resulting in targeted cuts, suspensions, and improvement plans designed to better connect academic offerings with the state’s workforce demands.
The year-long evaluation examined 357 programs that failed to meet long-standing State Regents’ productivity standards, which track student enrollment and degrees awarded. Following the review, institutions identified 41 programs for deletion and 21 for suspension. Another 193 programs will continue with formal action plans aimed at raising enrollment and strengthening outcomes through curriculum updates, partnerships with other campuses, and new recruitment strategies.
“Our institutions have shown remarkable leadership throughout the review process,” said State Regents’ chair Courtney Warmington. “This effort underscores the state system’s commitment to aligning academic offerings with workforce demand, elevating student success, and prioritizing responsible stewardship of state resources.”
The final category of reviewed programs includes 102 low-cost or shared-cost degrees—programs that require few resources to operate and therefore remain viable even with smaller student numbers. More than 80% of these programs support critical workforce needs in high-demand areas such as engineering, education, computer science, health professions, and the natural sciences.
Chancellor Sean Burrage emphasized that the review showcases higher education’s adaptability and forward focus.
“This review and the positive response from our public colleges and universities demonstrate our shared commitment to accountability and innovation,” Burrage said. “By phasing out programs that no longer meet student or workforce needs and shielding programs in STEM and other crucial fields, we are ensuring that public higher education remains future-focused and responsive.”
Students and families can explore Oklahoma degree programs, career pathways, and recommended plans of study through the State Regents’ online resource at okhighered.org/state-system/degree-programs/.
