The proposed bill, known as the "Strengthening Arkansas Education Act," aims to amend existing laws regarding higher education in Arkansas by establishing a core curriculum requirement for state-supported institutions. Under the new provisions, institutions will be mandated to ensure that students complete a core curriculum of thirty-five semester credit hours before being granted a baccalaureate degree. This curriculum will include a variety of courses, such as English composition, mathematics, laboratory sciences, humanities, social sciences, U.S. history, government, literature, economics, and visual arts, with specific content requirements outlined for each course.

Additionally, the bill allows for certain exemptions, stating that applied science degrees may be exempt from these core curriculum requirements, and competency-based or proficiency-based degree programs may qualify for alternative credit hour models. The legislation emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded education that incorporates significant literary and philosophical works, as well as an understanding of the principles of self-government and the historical context of the United States.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1696 V2 - 3-19-2025 03:31 PM: 6-41-704(2), 6-41-804(2), 6-61-105, 03-19-2025, 6-61-218, 6-61-231(a)
Old version HB1696 V3 - 3-31-2025 12:07 PM: 6-41-704(2), 6-41-804(2), 6-61-105, 03-31-2025, 6-61-218, 6-61-231(a)