University of Wisconsin campus proposes elimination of majors such as English, history

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The University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point is reportedly discussing a plan to eliminate 13 majors including English, philosophy, history and Spanish.

The campus — one of 11 campuses in the University of Wisconsin system — would instead focus on programs that have "clear career pathways," The Washington Post reported.

Under the proposal, the school would expand areas such as marketing, management, graphic design and computer information systems — areas that "have demonstrated value and demand in the region," according to the school.

The school's administration is framing the idea as a way to increase its declining enrollment and to deal with a multimillion-dollar deficit, according to the Post.

Faculty and students, however, plan a sit-in this week at the campus administration building to oppose the change.

The plan needs to be approved by a campus governance committee and the University of Wisconsin system's chancellor and Board of Regents for it to take effect, according to the Post.

“To fund this future investment, resources would be shifted from programs with lower enrollment, primarily in the traditional humanities and social sciences,” the school said in a statement.

“Although some majors are proposed to be eliminated, courses would continue to be taught in these fields, and minors or certificates will be offered.”

History, who needs history?

quote:

Originally posted by 12131:
History, who needs history?

Everybody does, you just don’t need a degree in it.

What! You mean there is no "clear career pathway" if you have a degree in SJW?

Sure you need history, but you can get that from a good book.

History and English majors often bemoan “oh there is no good job for me, other than being a teacher...”

“No shit? Nothing practical from either of those degrees???” <I’m SHOCKED>

quote:

Originally posted by 12131:
History, who needs history?

As a history minor, there’s a massive gap between History, the knowledge and understanding of the past, how it shaped the present, and how it will impact the future, and the absolute garbage that is packaged as “History” in college.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: reloader-1,

Seems to be a reaction to the fact that high schools graduates are unemployable.

They already have those...They're called 'Technical Schools' or 'Trade Schools'.

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Originally posted by TMats:

quote:

Originally posted by 12131:
History, who needs history?

Everybody does, you just don’t need a degree in it.

Then who teaches history? Some guy or gal who may have read a few books while getting a degree in engineering?

English, philosophy, history and Spanish are legit, IMO. But drama, dance, etc. – no.

I don't see this as a huge problem, since there are still plenty of universities that offer the arts degrees. It would be nice to know some background. Are they facing financial pressure and need to reduce programs? Do they hope to become a more specialized school within the state university system? What are the benefits of advertising higher graduate employment rates and possible lower long-term student debt?

quote:

declining enrollment and to deal with a multimillion-dollar deficit, according to the Post.

On an extension campus with less than 9k student enrollment? Holy crap!

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Originally posted by TMats:

quote:

Originally posted by 12131:
History, who needs history?

Everybody does, you just don’t need a degree in it.

Actually, I think there is a need for History teachers, but not as many History majors as likely are made.

flashguy

Does that mean no more "Women's Studies" degrees?

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Originally posted by Mike the Texan:
I don't see this as a huge problem ....

Really‽ One university decides to concentrate on teaching its students subjects that might help them find jobs after they graduate, and it’s not the end of Western civilization?

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Originally posted by WaterburyBob:
Does that mean no more "Women's Studies" degrees?

you misspelled it I think it is Wymyn's Studies.

quote:

Originally posted by Southflorida-law:

quote:

Originally posted by TMats:

quote:

Originally posted by 12131:
History, who needs history?

Everybody does, you just don’t need a degree in it.

Then who teaches history? Some guy or gal who may have read a few books while getting a degree in engineering?

Not EVERY school will eliminate History (or any other program). I see this as at least one university adapting to the marketplace.

Law is a perfect example... Barry and St. Thomas would be well served to eliminate their Law Schools, whilst UF, Miami, Yale, UVA etc would keep their programs.

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Originally posted by feersum dreadnaught:

quote:

Originally posted by WaterburyBob:
Does that mean no more "Women's Studies" degrees?

you misspelled it I think it is Wymyn's Studies.

Or maybe 'wimmins'.

Sounds like a great idea. Focus on vocations that are needed. This is the way a lot of German trade schools are set up.