Effective ways to handle program discontinuance were studied based on experiences at 10 campuses. Two variables that were considered to be institutional approaches to financial difficulties are the degree of financial difficulty and the degree of control exercised by the institutional leaders. The study sample was drawn primarily from large public research universities in the United States, although two smaller regional campuses and one large private research university were also included. Key administrators and faculty were interviewed, and data were collected from a variety of written documents such as financial statements, program review documents, and annual reports. Representatives of state agencies were also interviewed in states where there are active coordinating or governing agencies. Five areas were examined: financial crisis, control and leadership, the role of the state agencies, the review process, and the process of program discontinuance. Recommendations to avoid discontinuance and actions required if closure is desirable or unavailable are offered. The 10 institutions are as follows: Florida State University, Louisiana State University, State University of New York (Albany), University of California (Berkeley), University of California (Riverside), University of Michigan, University of Pennsylvania, University of Washington, University of Wisconsin (Eau Claire), and University of Wisconsin (Madison). (SW)