CHAPEL HILL — The University of North Carolina system is bracing for budget cuts next year that could put hundreds of people out of work.

Multiple media outlets report that UNC President Erskine Bowles told the system’s board of governors Thursday that state leaders want budget cuts of between 5 percent and 10 percent.

Officials say a 5 percent cut would mean the 17-campus system would have to cut $135 million in spending and shed 800 jobs. Trimming 10 percent from the budget would eliminate $270 million and 1,700 jobs.

Bowles says unlike previous cuts, these reductions would include academic programs and faculty members.

The General Assembly will make the final budget decisions in its next session, which begins in January.

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