S.B. No. 2840 mandates that certain public institutions of higher education in Texas offer competency-based baccalaureate degree programs in high-demand fields, as determined by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. The bill introduces a new section, 51.3535, to the Education Code, which outlines the responsibilities of the system administration in ensuring that these programs are available. It specifies that the total cost for an enrolled student in such a program cannot exceed $10,000. Additionally, the Coordinating Board is authorized to adopt necessary rules for the administration of this section.
The provisions of this bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply starting with the 2026-2027 academic year. This initiative aims to enhance educational accessibility and affordability in Texas by promoting competency-based education, which allows students to progress based on their skills and knowledge rather than traditional time-based measures.
Statutes affected: Introduced: ()