Since the 2018-19 academic year, its undergraduate student headcount has consistently declined, and in fall 2023, it failed to meet goals for first-time freshman enrollment. Credit hour production from traditional undergraduate students has decreased over the last five years, and on-campus housing occupancy ― as well as related auxiliary revenue ― has dropped over the last four.Because of factors like these, CBU is poised to face a projected deficit of between $5 million and $7 million by the end of 2024. And to prevent this type of shortfall, the 150-year-old university is taking drastic steps, with plans to cut its operating budget by $4 million.
