Bill > SB1424

This bill expands the authorization for public junior colleges in Texas to offer baccalaureate (four-year) degree programs by modifying existing education code. Specifically, the bill allows the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to authorize baccalaureate degree programs at public junior colleges if the college offers a degree program in applied science (which can include emphases in early childhood education, applied technology, or nursing) or in the field of education, and demonstrates a workforce need for the program. Additionally, the bill increases the maximum number of baccalaureate degree programs a public junior college can offer from five to eight. The changes will take effect in the 2025-2026 academic year, and the bill becomes law immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in both legislative houses, or otherwise takes effect on September 1, 2025. This modification aims to provide more flexible higher education options and address local workforce needs by allowing junior colleges to offer more advanced degree programs in specific fields.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1424