University of Leicester outlines next steps in Strategic Review

The University of Leicester has launched a formal consultation on proposals aimed at strengthening its financial sustainability and future success.

The consultation covers academic and Professional Services areas, including Chemistry, Film Studies, Geography, Geology and the Environment, History and Modern Languages; and College Operations.

The review is being implemented in stages, with consultation for the School of Education and Technical and Research Infrastructure Services commencing in January 2026 and the three remaining Professional Services functional areas (IT/Digital Service and Support, Student Support and Programme Administration and Transactional Finance) will be reviewed in Spring 2026, before any decisions are made about potential next steps.

Staff in these areas shared their views earlier this year during pre-change engagement, which has helped to shape some of the proposals now under consultation. The consultation period will run for 90 days and is scheduled to conclude - at the latest - by the end of February. While this involves 163 colleagues in collective consultation (around 4% of our total workforce) it’s important to note that there are 103 roles included within the proposed new structure.

Professor Nishan Canagarajah, Vice-Chancellor, said: “Leicester is a world-leading institution, but the financial challenges in the Higher Education sector are well documented and we cannot stand still. In order to thrive we must focus our resources strategically and invest in our people and infrastructure so that we can continue to deliver excellent research and an outstanding experience for our students.

“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.”

The University remains committed to maintaining continuity in teaching, research and operations throughout the consultation period and will keep students, alumni, and partners updated as the process progresses.

A summary of the proposals is outlined below:

Proposals

The proposed changes are subject to consultation with staff and trade union colleagues, and no decisions have been taken at this stage.

College of Science and Engineering

Chemistry and Geography, Geology and the Environment

To undertake consultation to create a new School of Chemical, Earth and Environmental Sciences that brings together Chemistry and Geography, Geology and the Environment, to focus on global challenges such as climate change and clean energy – areas where demand from students, employers and research funders is growing.

College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities

History

To reshape and reduce the academic team in History to align with sustainable levels of student demand while maintaining a strong core of research active staff through use of the voluntary severance scheme.

Modern Languages

To undertake consultation that all Modern Languages programmes will close to new entrants from 2026/27. All current students would be supported to complete their studies in line with the Student Protection Plan.

The University will continue to provide language learning opportunities for students, staff, and the community through Languages at Leicester, maintaining our cultural contribution and international outlook.

Film Studies

To undertake consultation that all Film Studies programmes will close to new entrants from 2026/27. All current students would be supported to complete their studies in line with the Student Protection Plan.

Professional Services

College Operations

To create an expert, consistent service environment in Colleges which supports outstanding student experience through high quality curriculum and assessment operations. The Service will also provide specialist local Professional Services at College level to underpin the unique operational requirements of individual colleges and Schools to empower academic excellence, coupled with stronger corporate service business partnering in key functions.