In the wake of shifting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies across higher education, the University of Iowa has announced the closure of its Gender, Women's, and Sexuality Studies department. This move comes as part of a larger restructuring within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS).

The university plans to consolidate several departments, including American Studies and the current Social Justice major, into a new School of Social and Cultural Analysis. This new school will house a new Social and Cultural Analysis major, intended to offer a broader and more integrated curriculum. The affected programs currently have a combined enrollment of fewer than 60 students.

CLAS Dean Sara Sanders expressed enthusiasm for the restructuring, emphasizing the goal of creating more sustainable program structures and fostering innovative curricula. Associate Dean Roland Racevskis highlighted the administrative benefits of consolidating leadership under a single team.

The proposed changes are slated to take effect on July 1, 2025, pending approval from the Board of Regents in February. Associate Dean Cornelia Lang explained that the new major aims to equip students with adaptable skills like analytical thinking and effective communication, preparing them for various career paths or graduate studies.

The University of Iowa's decision follows a national trend of universities reevaluating their DEI programs. The University of Michigan recently removed the requirement for DEI statements in faculty hiring and promotions, and the University of Austin has shifted towards merit-based initiatives. Several states, including Florida, have also implemented funding restrictions for DEI programs in public institutions.