Marshall University’s board approved program changes that include cutting seven academic programs and expanding or improving five others as the institution works to close an estimated $10.2 million deficit for fiscal 2026. The decisions follow the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission’s mandate that state colleges evaluate programs at least once every five years. For programs set to end, Marshall plans to discontinue them after currently enrolled students complete their degrees. Interim Provost Robert Bookwalter presented the plan, which reflects demand, student outcomes, and delivery costs as drivers. The deficit picture has improved: board materials cited a fiscal progress trajectory reducing the gap by nearly 44% from $18.1 million last year, with an expectation to bring the deficit under $3 million next year. Alongside program restructuring, the university plans a fiscal 2027 capital investment blitz funded by $21.8 million from the state to address deferred maintenance.