New national data show degree ‘‘cold spots’’ emerging as universities cut low-enrollment programs, concentrating certain courses in a handful of cities. HESA figures point to steep declines in language enrollments across the U.K., while programs such as artificial intelligence have surged — prompting institutions to shutter or suspend humanities and language offerings in some regions. In the U.S., state systems and public colleges are also trimming programs and exploring mergers to address financial shortfalls and falling enrollment. Higher-education leaders warn that course closures, mergers and program eliminations risk narrowing access and reshaping local higher-education ecosystems.