Renaming of Arts & Sciences

As part of William & Mary’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence and strategic growth, the Faculty of Arts & Sciences has initiated the process to change its name to the College of Arts & Sciences. This proposed change reflects the division’s broad and interdisciplinary mission, which spans the arts & humanities, social sciences and natural sciences. It will also strengthen the division’s identity, aligning it more closely with the structure of other academic units at the university and clarifying its role within the larger William & Mary community.

The proposed renaming follows nearly two years of research, consultation, and dialogue, and is designed to support the future growth of Arts & Sciences within the larger university. Implementation will follow pending final review and approval by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV), anticipated later this summer.  

This transformation will position Arts & Sciences to better engage with students, faculty, alumni, and donors, as well as provide new opportunities for academic and philanthropic development. All existing degree programs, departments and academic offerings will remain the same, as will the fundamental governance and administrative structure of Arts & Sciences.

Below you’ll find answers to common questions regarding the renaming, the impact on students, faculty, and alumni, and what this means for the future of Arts & Sciences.

Frequently Asked Questions

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The change from “Faculty of Arts & Sciences” to the “College of Arts & Sciences” is part of a broader initiative to strengthen our identity within William & Mary and better align with university-wide naming conventions. The term “College” reflects the comprehensive nature of the unit’s mission, offering a broad, interdisciplinary education in the arts & humanities, social sciences and natural sciences. It also better reflects the experience of our students and faculty and aligns us with other top-tier institutions.

No, all existing degree programs, departments, and academic offerings will remain the same. Students will continue to receive the same high-quality education from the same outstanding faculty. The proposed name change will not affect the curriculum, academic structure or the governance of the division.

The core governance and administrative structure of Arts & Sciences will remain unchanged. Faculty will continue to have a strong voice in decision-making processes and governance. While the name change provides a new identity, it does not alter the internal workings of Arts & Sciences.

Current students will not experience any disruptions to their coursework, advising or degree progress. William & Mary diplomas currently list William & Mary as the degree-granting institution and will continue to do so. The name change will make the Arts & Sciences identity clearer and more aligned with other academic units at William & Mary, but it will not affect the academic experience.

Renaming the division to the College of Arts & Sciences reinforces its role as a central academic unit within the university, creating opportunities for faculty recruitment, collaboration and research. It strengthens the division’s identity and enhances its visibility, helping faculty remain at the forefront of interdisciplinary scholarship. There will be no changes to faculty or staff roles as a result of the name change.

Alumni degrees will continue to be recognized under the university’s official records. The name change does not alter the credentials of alumni. However, the renaming enhances the reputation of Arts & Sciences by aligning with common higher education naming practices, which may increase the recognition of their degrees both nationally and internationally.

The new name strengthens the visibility and external recognition of Arts & Sciences with alumni and community partners. It aligns the Arts & Sciences with the structures of other well-established institutions, potentially increasing philanthropic support. The name change also positions Arts & Sciences to launch new initiatives that will further its mission and growth.

No, the name change is a strategic decision related to branding and identity. It does not affect tuition rates, funding or financial aid policies.

The renaming positions Arts & Sciences for growth, visibility and new opportunities. It reflects a forward-thinking vision for Arts & Sciences, enabling it to better meet the evolving needs of students, faculty, and the broader community. The clearer identity also makes it easier to secure new philanthropic support and develop innovative academic initiatives.

Pending approval by the State Council for Higher Education in Virginia (SCHEV), the name change will be incorporated into university records, materials and signage starting in the 2025-2026 academic year. The transition will be phased in over time to ensure minimal disruption. In addition, new initiatives and campaigns will be launched to support the Arts & Sciences mission and expand its reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Topics

Why is the Faculty of Arts & Sciences being renamed to the College of Arts & Sciences?

Will this change impact academic programs or degrees?

Will this affect faculty governance or administrative structure?

How does this affect students?

How does this change benefit faculty and staff?

What does this mean for alumni?

How does this affect external partnerships and fundraising?

Does this change affect tuition or funding?

How does this change position Arts & Sciences for the future?

What’s next in the process?