Georgia State University has eliminated its gender studies major, a move that comes amid broader scrutiny of academic programs at public universities across Georgia and the country.
The decision follows a pattern of program reviews and cuts at state institutions, where administrators and governing boards have increasingly questioned the enrollment numbers and workforce alignment of certain humanities and social science programs.
GSU, the largest university in Georgia by enrollment, serves a diverse student body of more than 50,000 students at its Downtown Atlanta campus and satellite locations. The university has not issued a detailed public statement on the reasoning behind the cut.
The elimination of the gender studies major at a major urban research university is likely to draw attention from both critics and defenders of such programs. Supporters argue these programs provide critical analytical skills and attract students interested in law, policy, and social services. Critics contend they draw insufficient enrollment to justify their cost.
It remains unclear how many current students are affected or whether a minor or certificate option will remain available.
