The University of Exeter plans about 150 academic job cuts, with union claims that humanities and social sciences face disproportionate targeting amid financial pressure and shifting student demand. Exeter says it will target areas “no longer sustainable,” aiming to rely on voluntary measures to reduce compulsory redundancies. The University and College Union (UCU) says 500 staff are at risk and that humanities account for 85% of positions identified. It describes the proposals as an “existential threat” to disciplines including history, English, modern languages, and politics, and signals industrial action and a vote of no confidence in Vice-Chancellor Lisa Roberts if the cuts proceed. Exeter’s defense cites rising costs, real-term declines in tuition fee income, underfunded research, and sustained international student demand changes.