Tenure arrangements are long-term contracts. If their duration is clear, they will protect academic freedom, provide institutions with the flexibility needed to meet changing circumstances, and comply with age-discrimination laws. Policy for the termination of tenure must be redesigned to satisfy competing needs and goals. (Author/MSE)

Introducing more flexibility into the fixed dates for termination of tenure is consistent with academic freedom and higher education's mission. However, such a policy should encourage both continuity and change, preserve job security and accountability, allow for institutional and faculty planning, comply with laws, and harmonize with a retirement…