By Jamie Martin
The College of Agriculture at Purdue University has decided to close its Department of Agricultural Sciences Education and Communication in June 2026 because of persistent low enrollment. The decision follows updated state requirements that ask public universities to evaluate programs with limited student participation.
Indiana Code 21-18-9-10.5, amended in the 2025–27 state budget, requires higher education institutions to review academic programs and either restructure or eliminate those with low enrollment and graduation numbers. The college determined that closure was the most appropriate option for this department.
Despite the closure, the Agricultural Education undergraduate program will continue as part of the College of Agriculture. This program remains the only agricultural education major available at a public university in Indiana.
Students currently enrolled in the Agricultural and Natural Resources Communication undergraduate major will receive guidance and assistance to complete their degree requirements. However, the program will no longer be offered to new students. Graduate students currently studying in the department will also be supported through degree completion, though no new graduate admissions will be accepted.
Tenured faculty members will keep their positions within the College of Agriculture, ensuring teaching and academic stability. Staff impacted by the decision will receive assistance according to established human resources policies.
The college has confirmed that no other departments are scheduled to close. Leaders have stated that the transition will be handled carefully, with a strong focus on supporting students, faculty, and staff while maintaining the quality of agricultural education.
Photo Credit: purdue-university
Categories: National