University would be mad to cut course - student

Matthew Brown is studying Politics and International Relations at the University of Northampton and has been told his course is one of those under threat

A second-year university student has described plans to potentially axe his course as "mad".

Matthew Brown is studying Politics and International Relations at the University of Northampton, which has proposed cutting or merging a number of undergraduate courses to address its £19m budget deficit.

Mr Brown said while he would be able to complete his degree, he was concerned that future students may not have the same opportunity.

A spokesperson from the University of Northampton said it "must do what it can to secure its future in these difficult times".

The University of Northampton said there were "pressing challenges" that threatened its financial stability

Almost three quarters of universities in England will face financial problems next year, despite tuition fees increasing, the BBC has been told.

Mr Brown, from the north-east of England, said losing the Politics course would be "a big loss" for students, arguing it was "such an important subject".

He said he chose the University of Northampton because of some of the "perks" on offer, including guaranteed accommodation, a free laptop and a paid trip abroad as part of a module.

He said rumours of course cuts were likely to create "real concern" among prospective students.

Last month, the university announced it was planning a second "voluntary severance" scheme after it received 97 applications in July.

It blamed the move on several factors, including frozen tuition fees and rising energy costs.

The University of Northampton spokesperson added: "We are currently consulting on seven undergraduate courses in regard to possible suspended entry for September 2025 and 15 undergraduate courses are under review for the possibility of merger/consolidation next year.

"But no decision has yet been made and current students will not be affected.

“We will continue to do all we can to support staff through the process and ensure that there is minimum disruption to our students."