KSU’s Black Studies Program Cut Sparks Concern Amid Broader DEI Backlash

Community leaders and students say the decision reflects a troubling shift in state and national policy on race and education.

To the disappointment of many people from the Black community, Kennesaw State University (KSU) is discontinuing its Black Studies major. The college cites low enrollment and limited degree output over the last decade, but many in Cobb point to the growing political scrutiny of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in higher education after President Donald Trump threatened cuts to funding for institutions that promote DEI programs.

The Black Studies major, a bachelor’s degree program, allows students to explore African and African diasporic culture, history, and societal structures from a global perspective. According to KSU’s website, the curriculum includes four concentrations: Cultural Production and Expression, Social and Structural Analysis, Historical Investigation, and Community and Professional Engagement.

KSU’s announcement follows Georgia Institute of Technology, who announced plans to dissolve several campus resource centers — including those serving LGBTQ+ and women students — in response to federal and state pressures. During the recent legislative session, Georgia Senate Republicans passed legislation restricting public colleges from endorsing DEI initiatives.

According to a report from the university’s student newspaper, The Sentinel, KSU officials notified students in the program via email, stating that no new students will be admitted starting with the upcoming summer semester.

A KSU spokesperson, Tammy Demel, confirmed that Black Studies is one of three “low producing” programs being deactivated, along with Philosophy and Technical Communication.

Demel said that a two-year teach-out plan will still allow current students to complete their degrees and that the school will continue offering courses in these subject areas as part of minors, general education, and elective options.

According to The Sentinel’s Managing Editor Zaire Breedlove, the Black Studies major has already been removed from OwlExpress, KSU’s internal registration and academic tracking system.

KSU President Dr. Kathy Schwaig acknowledged ongoing discussions with students regarding the impact of these changes, particularly to centers like the LGBTQ+ Resource Center and the Cultural Awareness Resource Center.

At least one lawmaker, State Rep. David Wilkerson (D–Powder Springs) has criticized the broader political climate currently affecting educational programs. Wilkerson said, “It would be extremely difficult for KSU to have a course in Black Studies without mentioning the word ‘Black,’. With Trump’s directive to remove anything related to race, it will only be a matter of time before KSU has to eliminate all similar classes outside of European or American history. The slightest indication that a school embraces racial diversity will result in threats to pull federal grants — which could mean the loss of hundreds of millions of dollars in funding.”