On December 5, 2025, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Board of Regents approved a $27.5 million budget reduction plan. The final plan includes the elimination of four academic programs, including Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Educational Administration and Statistics. Four additional academic programs—Entomology, Plant Pathology, Agricultural Economics and Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication—will be realigned into two new schools.
In October 2025, the UNL Center for Science, Mathematics and Computer Education shared the news of the proposal for reducing UNL’s budget. We encouraged individuals who wanted to support the affected units to submit feedback to the university Academic Planning Committee. Although the Board of Regents have voted to move forward with the budget reduction plan and program eliminations, the CSMCE is grateful to those who submitted feedback, particularly in support of the Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Educational Administration and Statistics programs.
As of the Spring 2026 semester, departments are following a UNL process for program elimination, which includes creating degree completion pathways that provide opportunities for current students to finish their course of study. Pathways vary by department and program.
At this time, the CSMCE is uncertain how the elimination of these programs will impact specific teacher professional development opportunities, graduate course offerings for K-12 teachers or events for students. The CSMCE remains committed to advocating for STEM programming for teachers and students throughout Nebraska.
Visit the UNL Budget Process website to learn more about the budget reduction plan and affected programs. See Academic Program Elimination Information for guidance for current and prospective students.