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Boston U Suspends Admissions to Humanities and Social Science Ph.D. Programs

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Boston University has placed a hold on new admissions to Ph.D. programs in the social sciences and the humanities, citing the need to re-evaluate and re-align with evolving academic landscapes. The university announced the decision at the end of January. Despite emphasizing a temporary suspension, the suspension is expected to last for up to 6 years and will affect admission for the 2023-2024 incoming class and beyond. This pause allows university leadership time to reasses current trends, priorities, and resource allocation models that align with faculty research and career pipelines for students in the humanities and social sciences.

About That ‘Institutional Neutrality’

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In the realm of education and academia, the tenet of “institutional neutrality” has long been a subject of heated debate. Advocates contend that educational institutions should maintain an objective stance on contentious issues, avoiding the promotion of specific viewpoints to foster critical thinking and open-minded inquiry.

However, critics argue that such neutrality is an illusion, alleging that institutions often perpetuate systemic biases through their curricula, speaker choices, and institutional policies. They argue that genuine inclusivity requires institutions to actively confront and address power imbalances and social injustices.

As the debate rages on, it’s crucial to recognize that “institutional neutrality” is not a binary concept. Educational institutions must navigate the delicate balance between fostering intellectual freedom and promoting equity and justice. Striking this balance requires introspective self-examination, transparent communication, and a commitment to ongoing dialogue among all stakeholders.