Cutbacks in Science Education: Bradford Joins Growing List of UK Universities Shutting Departments

Financial Strain Forces University of Bradford to End Chemistry Courses and Apprenticeships

The University of Bradford's announcement to discontinue its chemistry courses from September 2025 signifies a notable setback for the UK’s academic landscape, as it aligns with the growing trend of departmental closures and course cuts across universities. In addition to this decision, the university has also opted to terminate its laboratory scientist degree apprenticeship in chemical sciences, reflecting the persistent financial pressures faced by higher education institutions.

This trend of closures is not isolated to Bradford. Earlier this year, Cardiff University revealed plans to merge its chemistry department with two other schools, resulting in a reduction of five staff members. Similarly, the University of East Anglia proposed cuts impacting 22 positions in its science faculty, while Aston and Hull universities previously decided to close their chemistry courses. Together, these closures highlight the financial struggles challenging the sustainability of science departments across the UK. A spokesperson for the University of Bradford explained that the institution is grappling with significant financial pressures, necessitating savings of at least £13 million. To achieve this, the university is reviewing all areas while striving to preserve student experience and research excellence.

Although the chemistry courses are being closed due to low student numbers, other programmes within the School of Chemistry and Biosciences, such as biomedical sciences, will continue. The spokesperson assured that current students would receive the necessary support to complete their courses, and staff would be assisted in the transition. However, no specific details were shared about the number of staff members affected.

Toby Underwood, head of professional standards at the Royal Society of Chemistry, expressed his disappointment over the decision, emphasising its adverse impact on the chemical sciences and degree apprenticeships. He warned that the closure would reduce the already limited number of apprenticeship providers, creating a geographically unsustainable scenario. Highlighting that degree apprenticeships recently surpassed full-time student enrolments in the department, Underwood underscored the lost opportunity this decision represents.

Underwood also praised Bradford’s legacy of educating students from minority ethnic backgrounds, warning that losing a high-quality chemistry programme could hamper diversity within the sector. He expressed concern over the timing of this closure, particularly when the UK economy needs young talent to drive growth in future industries. Citing the Research for Our Future Workforce and Educational Pathways report, he noted that job growth in the chemistry field is expected to outpace the wider UK workforce by 30% over the next decade. He further stressed the sector’s need for green skills and the importance of attracting young talent through diverse educational pathways.

Although Underwood acknowledged the financial constraints faced by universities, he urged the University of Bradford to reconsider its decision, highlighting the potential long-term negative effects on the economy and society. He argued that closing entire departments deprives the UK of valuable opportunities to foster skilled professionals in critical fields. The closure of Bradford's chemistry department is not merely a local issue but a reflection of the challenges facing the higher education sector. As universities continue to grapple with financial difficulties, the broader implications of such decisions on diversity, innovation, and the UK economy demand careful consideration.

Editor's Note:

The University of Bradford’s decision to close its chemistry courses highlights the challenges facing higher education in the UK, particularly in science fields. With issues like climate change, technological advancements, and the need for green skills, reducing opportunities in chemistry seems unwise. Although financial pressures are a factor, the impact on diversity, research, and future industries is too important to overlook. Bradford’s chemistry department has supported many students from minority ethnic backgrounds, and this legacy is now at risk. The closure of degree apprenticeships also reduces options for young talent, leaving students and employers with fewer choices and forcing some to make difficult sacrifices.

Skoobuzz highlights that this issue goes beyond just one university; it affects the UK’s ability to nurture the scientific talent needed for future progress. Universities need to think about the long-term effects of their decisions. Short-term savings shouldn’t hurt the country’s future growth and resilience.