University of Providence Announces Closure at End of 2026-2027 Academic Year
GREAT FALLS — The University of Providence will cease educational operations at the conclusion of the 2026–2027 academic year, the university announced Tuesday. The decision follows years of efforts to address financial challenges, increase enrollment, and find a sustainable partnership model that ultimately proved unworkable.
Board Decision and Timeline
The Board of Trustees voted at 8:45 a.m. Tuesday to end educational operations, with the final day of instruction scheduled for August 20, 2027. Some academic and administrative work will continue afterward to provide final grades, records, and student support services.
The university declared financial exigency earlier this year, prompting extensive restructuring of academic programs, expense reduction, and new enrollment strategies. Despite these efforts, the administration determined that no viable long-term operating model could be established.
Impact on Students and Academic Programs
President Dr. Caroline Goulet emphasized that the university’s priority is helping every currently enrolled student complete their degree. Some students may graduate before the final day, while others will need to transfer or complete their programs through teach-out agreements with partner institutions.
Those agreements will outline details about program completion, including tuition and scholarship information. The university will continue registration and maintain campus housing availability throughout the transition period.
Support for Athletes and Student Transitions
More than 75% of the approximately 430 enrolled students participate in athletics, with 15 sports teams competing in the Frontier and Cascade Conferences. The university will assist student-athletes in completing their degrees and continuing their athletic careers at partner institutions.
Other students will have access to transfer options and can work with the Montana University System, which announced it would help students identify options for completing their degrees, including transfers to public university campuses.
Employment and Faculty Transition
The university employs approximately 115 faculty and staff members. Individual meetings will begin on October 28 to discuss employment timelines, compensation, benefits, and transition responsibilities.
The university is also arranging career transition assistance, including guidance on unemployment resources and mental health support for affected employees.
Campus Future and Historical Preservation
No plans for the expansive 68-acre campus or its facilities were announced at Tuesday’s press conference. Providence Health System Chief People Officer Greg Till emphasized that the immediate focus remains on supporting students and employees while maintaining educational quality through the final year.
Founded in 1932 by the Sisters of Providence, Ursuline Sisters, and the Catholic Bishop of Great Falls, the institution was originally known as the College of Great Falls before being renamed the University of Great Falls in 1995. In 2017, it was rebranded as the University of Providence through a partnership with Providence St. Joseph Health.
Community and Legacy
While the university closes its doors, its mission and impact will endure through graduates, faculty, staff, and partners who have carried the spirit of Providence into their communities. Board chair Terry Cosgrove noted that the institution’s nearly 95-year history as an important Catholic ministry will continue to inspire future generations.
Providence Ministries will work to preserve the university’s history, archives, traditions, and sacred assets. Information about alumni records and transcripts will be provided in the coming months, with updates available at uprovidence.edu.
The university will also honor its legacy through the support of its dedicated faculty and staff, many of whom have served through exceptionally difficult circumstances.
For current students, employees, and families, the university encourages sending questions to questions@uprovidence.edu for further assistance.
Dr. Caroline Goulet, the university’s president, expressed personal difficulty with the decision but credited faculty and staff for helping him complete his own education at the institution.
Upcoming updates will be posted online, and the university remains committed to providing clear guidance and support as the community navigates this significant transition.
This development represents a significant change for the Great Falls area, marking the end of nearly 95 years of educational operations at the institution.
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