Academics have been axed by one US university because they do not have doctorates. Northeastern University has not renewed the annual contracts of the tutors. However, one popular teacher's job was saved after students petitioned the university to retain her. The university would not say how many tutors would be affected, but it is believed that at least six will not have their contracts renewed. The institution said it was trying to recruit more staff with doctorates. It is also looking to hire 100 tenured professors or those with the potential to become so. The university said the changes were "the right thing to do for the students".