Troy University to close Phenix City Campus after 50 years
After serving the Phenix City and Columbus regions for five decades, Troy University has announced plans to cease operations at its Phenix City Campus by December 31, 2025.
The decision, made by the Troy University Board of Trustees on March 1, reflects the growing shift toward online education and evolving demands in higher education.
Troy University first established a presence in the area in 1974 with a satellite office at Fort Moore, now Fort Benning — details regarding that story here. A year later, the university opened a dedicated campus next to Chattahoochee Valley Community College. In 2015, the Phenix City Campus relocated to its current riverfront facility, where it has continued to serve students in East Alabama.
Despite its longstanding contributions, declining demand for in-person instruction at satellite locations led university leaders to reconsider the need for a physical campus.
“Troy University’s Phenix City Campus has played a vital role in our mission and educational outreach for over five decades,” said Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. “However, as more adult learners shift toward online and flexible learning options, demand for traditional in-person instruction at satellite locations has declined. This decision was not made lightly, and I am profoundly grateful to the faculty, staff, students, and community leaders who have built the Phenix City Campus’s legacy of excellence.”
The closure comes amid a broader trend of higher education institutions adjusting to changing student needs. According to the Hechinger Report, nearly 900 colleges and universities across the United States have ceased operations in the past 20 years, leading to the closure of more than 9,000 campuses and locations.
Chancellor Hawkins emphasized that Troy University will maintain a presence at Fort Moore to continue supporting military personnel seeking higher education opportunities.
“Technology has changed the way we live, including how we deliver education, but our commitment to students in the Phenix City area—including those at Fort Moore—remains as strong as ever,” Hawkins said. “We may not have a physical campus, but we’re not going anywhere—we will continue to serve this community.”
The university has committed to ensuring a smooth transition for students, faculty, and staff. A transition plan will be developed to help current students complete their degrees online or at other Troy University locations. Faculty and staff will receive support in professional transitions, with opportunities to continue working within the university, particularly in online education roles.
Dr. Kerry Palmer, Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, reaffirmed Troy University’s commitment to adapting to the changing educational landscape.
“Changing economic conditions and shifting institutional priorities require strategic decisions to ensure Troy University’s long-term financial sustainability,” Palmer said.
Troy University will continue to operate its campuses in Dothan and Montgomery, with no current plans for closures. Dr. Palmer also noted that the university is actively developing new programs and initiatives to strengthen its presence in those locations.
As the transition progresses, Troy University plans to work with state and local leaders to find a new occupant for the Phenix City riverfront building, ensuring that the facility continues to benefit the community.
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