We were shocked to learn Friday that the University of the Arts in Philadelphia will close its doors on June 7, 2024.
“I feel like I’m in shock. When I read it, I couldn’t even understand what was going on,” said former student Aaron Foreman.
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education announced it was withdrawing the university’s accreditation. The withdrawal takes effect this Saturday.
UArts said it will not enroll a new class in the fall. In a statement, the university explained that it will work with current students to transfer them to partner schools like Temple University, Drexel University and others.
Schools that lose accreditation have the right to appeal that action, but the commission says it was informed earlier this week by UArts that the school planned to close its doors on Saturday.
The commission said it requested what it called a “additional information report” which was due Wednesday at noon. He also called for a teaching plan by June 7, 2024, which would give students a fair chance to complete their studies.
UArts lost its accreditation because of what was submitted in the supplemental information report, according to MSCHE.
“The University of the Arts is deeply saddened to announce that it will close its doors effective Friday, June 7, 2024. The closure means that the University will not enroll a new class in the fall and will support our continuing students in their progress toward earning a degree by Develop seamless transfer pathways to our partners: Temple University, Drexel University, and Moore College of Art and Design, among others. Like many institutions of higher education, UArts is in a fragile financial situation, with many years of declining enrollment, declining revenue, and increasing expenses. As operations wind down, the University will do everything possible to support our students, faculty and staff,” University of the Arts said in a statement shared with NBC10.
The university said declining enrollment and revenue is what is forcing the school to close its doors due to increased expenses, according to the statement shared by UArts.
“I am deeply disappointed and frustrated by the loss of accreditation and upcoming closure of the University of the Arts. This renowned arts school has been a cornerstone of creativity and culture in Downtown Philadelphia for generations. His loss is a significant setback and not only a devastating blow to our local community, but also a significant setback for the arts and education in our city as a whole,” said Pennsylvania State Representative Ben Waxman , in a press release.
University officials say they will hold public meetings for the school community. Information about these town halls will be shared throughout the weekend.
“We have done everything in our power to address this crisis and avoid the worst possible outcome: an abrupt shutdown. Yet we have achieved this deeply painful outcome, which we know affects our entire community We are grateful for all you are doing to support each other during this most difficult time,” said School Board of Trustees Chairman Judson Aaron. school, Kerry Walk, in a statement.
The university is one of the oldest schools in the country, dating back to the 1870s. It is an institution that was established in Philadelphia and produces artists and musicians from around the world.
“I learned so much from my time there. I’m sad that this time is coming to an end for all of these students,” Foreman said.
If you are a student and have questions about losing university accreditation, click here.
This is a developing story. Check back here for updates.