RENO, NV - Some 50 students rallied outside of the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center on campus today, trying to save degree programs in the Foreign Language Department.

The University has to cut 6.9% from their budget, and some of those proposed cuts would close the minor and major degree programs in German Studies and French, the minor offered in Italian.

“We need to have a choice in what foreign language we want to study,” French student Jimmy Jo said. “If we’re left with only one language, to me, that would be a large step for the University on the road to mediocrity. And this is not a mediocre university.”

Even though there could be cuts to the Foreign Language degree programs, the University wants to let students that lower-division courses will still be offered to satisfy foreign language requirements needed for graduation.

All colleges and departments that could be cut have a chance to respond to the proposal, before the Board of Regents makes a final decision in early June.