UK higher education institutions are drawing scrutiny for reductions in language offerings, with experts warning the changes could weaken social mobility for working-class students. The report points to actions at the University of Exeter, where more than 70 languages academics were told they face potential redundancy as the university seeks to cut 150 full-time posts. It also ties the debate to a proposal by the University of Nottingham to become the first Russell Group university to offer no language degrees. Former education secretaries and language academics argue the loss of language pathways can narrow vocational and educational options that support advancement. For colleges and universities, the controversy centers on the academic and policy consequences of program redesign—particularly how course mix decisions can affect access for students relying on public and elite institutions for upward mobility.