Parents to sue over Exeter University changes

Angry parents are threatening contract actions against the University of Exeter, in the wake of the school’s decision to close two money-losing departments.  The group, Parents Against Cuts at Exeter (PACE), said, “We have a legal team in place, and we are advised that we would have a case to take to the High Court on the grounds of breach of contract.”

At issue is the vote by the University Senate and Council to shut down the music and chemistry departments, which will eliminate cost about 130 faculty and staff.  The university says it is facing a £ 4.5 million deficit this year.

The plan is to “refocus” the University to emphasize its strengths in biology, given that funding in the UK is increasingly targeted to highly rated depatments.  Some continuing education programs will also be phased out.  The changes were approved by large majorities of the faculty and the governing council.  The school’s news release is here.