University of Hertfordshire sets out steps to secure long-term sustainability 

The University of Hertfordshire has today [Tuesday, 23 June] announced plans to secure its long-term sustainability in response to sustained financial pressures and significant challenges across the higher education sector.

Operating in one of the most challenging periods the sector has ever faced, the University will need to reduce its cost base by around £20m to protect its financial stability while continuing to invest in its future.

As part of these savings, around 200 posts across the University - spanning academic, professional and technical services - are expected to be impacted, with changes implemented over the 2026/27 academic year.

Professor Anthony Woodman, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hertfordshire, said:

“This is a very difficult moment for our community. Behind every post is a valued colleague who contributes to the life and success of our University, and we do not underestimate the impact of these proposals or take them lightly.

“However, the challenges facing our sector are significant and ongoing, and we are not immune to them. To remain financially sustainable and to continue delivering the high-quality education and opportunities our students expect, we must take action now.”

Financial pressures have been driven above all by changes to immigration policy affecting international student demand, compounded by ongoing recruitment challenges, stagnant home tuition fees in real terms, and rising costs across utilities, estates and national insurance.

In response, the University has already reduced non‑essential spending, tightened controls on travel and identified efficiencies wherever possible, while protecting academic quality and the student experience.

However, these actions alone are no longer enough to address the scale of the challenge.

Professor Anthony Woodman added: “This is not only about stability, but about creating conditions for future growth. By reshaping our cost base now, we can protect what matters most – strong teaching, relevant courses and the support that underpins the student experience – while continuing to invest in areas of academic, enterprise and research excellence.

“We are committed to supporting our community openly and thoughtfully through this process. We are confident in our future and in the role the University will continue to play for our students, our partners and our region. By taking these steps now, we are putting ourselves in a strong position to deliver our ambitions for 2030 and beyond.”