St. Cloud State University has proposed a restructuring initiative to strengthen academic offerings for students and ensure future financial sustainability.
The restructuring plan will address a projected $14.5 million budget shortfall for the university over the next two years.
“This proposed realignment is designed to streamline administrative structures, focus leadership on shared goals and make it easier for students to navigate their academic journey,” said SCSU Interim President Larry Dietz. “We are building on the university’s strengths to ensure a bold and vibrant future for St. Cloud State.”
A key phase of this proposed plan is merging the five current colleges into three larger, more integrated colleges.
The College of Business, Engineering and Technology would focus on high-demand, career-oriented programs, strong partnerships with industry and engaged learning.
The College of Arts and Sciences would serve as the heart of the university’s liberal arts mission while supporting strong foundational skills for all students in preparation for advanced study.
The College of Education, Health and Human Services would combine education and health-related programs to emphasize professional preparation and field experiences, aligning directly with workforce needs in our region.
“Merging academic units allows us to streamline operations, foster innovation and enhance our ability to serve students without compromising the quality or distinctiveness of our programs,” said Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Katherina Pattit. “This new structure strengthens our academic foundation and opens the door to new interdisciplinary opportunities that reflect the evolving needs of our students and the workforce.”
The proposed colleges would be established by July 1, 2026, allowing for in-depth conversations and input from the campus community about the best organizational structure and home for academic programs.
Administrative positions will be consolidated in academic and support offices across campus, with functions being strategically redistributed to other units. Any reductions in staff and administration that would result from the mergers would not go into effect until the proposed colleges begin operations.
“This plan is not proposing large-scale layoffs,” Dietz said. “A majority of reductions would be absorbed through existing vacancies, thanks to careful position control over the last year.”
Other proposed operational adjustments include ending on-campus childcare by 2026 and moving academic offerings at SCSU’s Plymouth campus to a community college partner once the Plymouth lease ends in 2027.
These changes would help the university align resources and structures to help serve students well into the future.
“We all want St. Cloud State to remain a strong, vibrant, student-centered university,” Dietz said. “I believe these changes will position us to meet that goal, and I am grateful for the campus and community’s partnership as we move forward together.”
Now that the proposal has been presented to the campus community, leadership will receive feedback before making a decision in the coming weeks.
