Students rallied at noon today to protest budget cuts to programs across the Faculty of Arts and Science. About 200 students marched to the front steps of Richardson Hall, where they were invited to speak about the value of their programs and raise concerns about the impact the cuts may have.

Students rallied on campus recently to protest budget cuts to programs across the Faculty of Arts and Science. About 200 students marched to the front steps of Richardson Hall, where they were invited to speak about the value of their programs and raise concerns about the impact the cuts may have.

The faculty is planning to suspend admission to about 40 degree types and concentration combinations that have had fewer than 25 students enrolled over the past several years. Current students will be able to finish their degrees in their concentration of choice.

As many as 30 people spoke in several languages. They praised the faculty and the student experience at Queen's, and stressed the importance of skills learned in language and art courses in today's global society. Students expressed fears that the financial challenges faced by the university would mean departmental cutbacks to faculty and classes, which could endanger the quality and relevance of their education.

The dean of Arts and Science, Alistair MacLean was invited to speak.  He told the crowd the process is painful and that Queen's isn't alone -- most universities in Ontario are trying to manage funding cutbacks. He encouraged students to discuss their concerns at the departmental level, and invited them to attend the faculty board meeting next Friday, April 3 at 3:30 in Humphrey Hall, room 102.

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