The University of Leicester has begun a major consultation process that could result in course closures and staff reductions, affecting both academic and professional services teams.
A total of 163 roles, representing about 4% of the university’s workforce, are under review as part of a restructuring process prompted by sector-wide financial challenges. The proposed changes include merging the chemistry, geography, geology, and environment departments into a single faculty to streamline operations.
Plans also include halting new student intakes for modern languages and film studies courses from the 2026–27 academic year, though existing students will be supported until they complete their degrees. Courses offered to the general public in modern languages will continue. The history department is also expected to see a reduction in academic staff to reflect lower student demand.
The consultation period runs until the end of February. During this time, the university is offering well-being support and voluntary severance options to affected staff. Meanwhile, members of the University and College Union (UCU) have announced industrial action from 10 to 21 November in response to the proposed changes.
