Higher education is a crucial driver of societal development and advancement. However, the extent to which universities depend on their academics is rarely examined from an educational network perspective. This study adopts a comprehensive approach to map and analyze this interdependence within a Latin American university, focusing on the impact of academic hiring practices on institutional resilience and stability. By examining the connections between academics, and disciplines (i.e., courses or modules) over a three-year period, this research uncovers patterns and relationships that influence the quality and structure of higher education. Additionally, the paper introduces a classification system reflecting levels of academic dependency, offering insights to enhance the educational experience.