NEW YORK (JTA) — Yeshiva University announced plans to merge the faculty of its two undergraduate schools, Yeshiva College and Stern College.

Richard Joel, president of the university, which is under Orthodox auspices, told students Wednesday that as of July 1, it will begin consolidating all arts and science departments. Stern, a women’s college, and the all-male Yeshiva have separate faculties and their campuses are located more than five miles apart from each other.

Joel said the move will allow for more diverse course offerings and will not affect faculty teaching loads.

The university has faced numerous financial challenges in recent years, and last week Yeshiva College faculty overwhelmingly passed a no-confidence resolution against Joel, who has been president since 2003. The university board responded with a statement in support of Joel.