University could close courses and reduce staff

More than 160 jobs are at risk as well as department restructures and course closures

The University of Leicester says it is reviewing 163 staff jobs and will consult on closing a number of courses for future students.

The review covers academic and professional services areas, including chemistry, film studies, geography, geology and the environment, history, modern languages and college operations.

The University and College Union (UCU) previously said its members were planning 10 days of strike action beginning from the week of 10 November and are "determined to fight these plans".

Vice-chancellor, Prof Nishan Canagarajah, said: "The financial challenges in the higher education sector are well documented and we cannot stand still."

The consultation is set to conclude by the end of February and includes a redundancy review of 163 colleagues - which the university said was about 4% of the total workforce.

They added 103 roles were included within the proposed new structure.

University bosses said they were "deeply disappointed" strikes were planned

The university will also consult on halting new entrants for modern languages and film studies courses from 2026-27.

Bosses said all current students on these courses would be supported to complete their studies.

Language courses open to the general public will remain in place.

The academic team within the history department will also be reduced to align with "sustainable levels of student demand" and the university is also proposing to merge chemistry, geography, geology and the environment departments in order to create a new faculty.

Leicester University and College Union (UCU) says it will carry out strike action between 10-21 November.

University bosses said they were "deeply disappointed" strikes were planning to go ahead but added they would remain open.

Professor Canagarajah added: "We know this period will feel unsettling, and we are committed to supporting everyone affected.

"Support will include access to the Employee Assistance Programme, wellbeing services, and opportunities for redeployment within the University.

"Eligible staff may also choose to apply for voluntary severance."