Harmony Restored: Cardiff University Saves Music and Languages After Star-Studded Outcry

Cardiff, Wales – In a significant victory for the arts and humanities, Cardiff University has reversed its controversial decision to cut its music and modern language departments. The university announced today that these courses will continue, albeit under a revised structure within a new “School of Global Humanities,” following immense public pressure and intervention from global music icons.

The U-turn comes after a groundswell of opposition to the initial plans, which included proposals to axe hundreds of jobs and several academic programs due to a reported £30 million funding shortfall. The backlash was particularly fierce regarding the School of Music, drawing high-profile support from stars like Sir Elton John, Ed Sheeran, Harry Styles, and Stormzy, who publicly urged the UK government to protect the esteemed department.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Wendy Larner, in a message to staff, confirmed that the revised proposal has been approved by the University Executive Board (UEB) and awaits final consideration by the University Council on June 17. If approved, the university will continue to offer undergraduate and postgraduate Music degree programs, though with “revised entry targets and content.” Similarly, Modern Languages will proceed with “smaller cohorts, and primarily in French, Spanish, Mandarin and Japanese,” with plans to expand translation degree provision and sustain “Languages for All” offerings.

ADVERTISEMENT

The newly formed School of Global Humanities is set to develop a “new suite of degree programmes – challenge-oriented, inclusive, co-created and committed to advancing the Public Humanities agenda.” This move aims to reshape the university’s approach to these disciplines.

While the reprieve for music and modern languages has been widely welcomed, the university’s decision to discontinue single and joint honours degrees in Ancient History and Religion and Theology remains unchanged. Professor Larner acknowledged this would be “very disappointing news” for those committed to these disciplines, but reassured that current students entering in September 2025 will be able to complete their degrees.

Cardiff University and College Union (UCU) spokesperson expressed satisfaction with the reversal on music and modern languages, but voiced ongoing concern over the more than 400 staff members who remain “in scope for redundancy.” The UCU asserts that no redundancies would be necessary if the university adjusted its financial targets and utilized its reserves for a longer recovery period, vowing to continue discussions with management and not rule out industrial action if their concerns are not addressed.

Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Education, Natasha Asghar MS, welcomed the announcement but noted concerns about the “ongoing impact of the upheaval” and the potential damage to Cardiff University’s global reputation due to the prolonged uncertainty.

More details on the new structure and savings plans are expected to be shared in a webinar on June 3, with a recording available from June 4. The final decision rests with the University Council on June 17. The saga highlights the power of public advocacy and high-profile support in shaping academic futures.