What You Need to Know About DEI Course Changes
In response to Executive Order 14173, in February 2025, the UNC System directed all of its institutions to suspend any DEI-related general education and degree-specific course requirements.
As a public university within the UNC System, the University is required to comply with all applicable laws and policies.
Below are answers to common questions about what this means for faculty and students
For Faculty
Which courses are affected by this change?
UNC Charlotte’s general education courses remain unaffected. We have asked colleges to examine undergraduate and graduate degree program requirements, focusing on required courses for degree programs. We have asked deans to work with faculty to consider appropriate next steps. In limited situations, the chancellor may approve, in writing, a tailored waiver for individual degree-specific requirements. All waivers must be reported to the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina System and a justification for the waiver must be provided.
Are minors, concentrations or certificate programs affected?
This directive applies only to general education and degree requirements. Elective courses, minors, concentrations and certificates are not affected.
How do I know if a course I teach is affected by this change?
If you have questions or need guidance, reach out to your department chair.
Does this affect what I am able to teach in my courses?
No. Faculty maintain discretion over instructional content relevant to their subject areas. This directive applies to curricular requirements, not to individual course content.
Who do I contact if I still have questions?
Please contact your department chair or Leslie Zenk, associate provost and chief of staff (lzenk@charlotte.edu), for additional guidance.
For Students
Will any of these changes delay my graduation?
No, you will not be delayed in graduation because of this change.
Does this change the value of a course I’ve already taken?
Any course you have already completed will still count toward your degree as it was originally intended.
Does this affect what my faculty are able to teach in my courses?
No. Faculty maintain discretion over instructional content relevant to their subject areas. This directive applies to curricular requirements, not to individual course content.
Will my degree requirements change?
For most students, no. General education requirements are unaffected, and only a small number of degree programs may pursue adjustments. Faculty in those departments are already working on solutions.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
If you have questions about your degree requirements, you can contact your academic advisor, who will provide guidance based on your specific degree program and graduation plan.