Will faculty continue teaching courses during the teach-out?
Yes. Faculty will continue teaching courses needed to support students through the 2026–2027 academic year. Faculty staffing will be based on remaining course and program needs, so the length of individual faculty appointments may vary.
How long will faculty positions continue?
Faculty positions will continue based on academic needs, including the courses and programs that must be offered to support students. Individual employment timelines may vary based on program requirements and institutional needs. Faculty members will receive individual information regarding their anticipated employment timeline as decisions are finalized.
What happens to employee benefits?
Benefits will continue for eligible employees through the end of the month in which their employment with the University ends, subject to the terms of the applicable benefit plans. Prior to separation, employees will receive information about benefit coverage, continuation options, and other applicable benefits. Human Resources will provide additional information and resources to help employees understand and plan for their benefit transition.
What happens to retirement benefits?
Employees remain vested in their own retirement plan account balances in accordance with the terms of the retirement plan. University contributions will continue for eligible employees in accordance with the terms of the plan while they remain eligible. Following separation from employment, employees will have options for managing their retirement account based on the terms of the plan and applicable law. Additional information regarding those options will be provided in coordination with TIAA.
What employment assistance will be available?
The University is committed to providing career transition support to employees whose positions are affected. The University plans to partner with Great Falls Job Service to provide local employment and workforce resources and will also contract with a third-party career transition provider to offer individualized career support.
At a minimum, career transition services are expected to include:
o Individual career coaching
o Resume and LinkedIn profile development and support
o Job-search and networking resources
o Career workshops, webinars, and skills-development opportunities
o Access to online career tools and learning resources
o Support for employees considering a career change or other next steps
Additional information about these services, including how and when employees can access them, will be provided as transition plans are finalized.
Does the Department of Education determine employee severance or continued employment?
Generally, no. Salary, benefits, notice, severance, unemployment eligibility, and employment end dates ordinarily are governed by institutional policies, employment agreements, collective-bargaining agreements, and applicable federal and state employment laws—not by federal student-aid discharge rules.
What responsibilities may faculty and staff have during closure?
Responsibilities will vary based on each employee’s role and the needs of the University throughout the teach-out and closure process. Depending on their position, faculty and staff responsibilities may include:
o Supporting accurate advising and degree completion planning
o Supporting teach-out and transfer planning
o Maintaining and preserving academic, student and financial-aid records
o Supporting accreditation, regulatory and financial reporting
o Coordinating clinical, internship and other experiential-learning requirements
o Supporting approved student communications and institutional close-out activities
o Completing knowledge transfer and transition activities as responsibilities conclude
Employees will receive directions from their supervisors regarding responsibilities specific to their roles.
Communication
Where can I receive official updates?
The University of Providence website will be updated regularly with official information and announcements. For additional questions, please email questions@uprovidence.edu.
How often will updates be provided?
The University will provide updates as information becomes available. Please submit your questions to questions@uprovidence.edu.
