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Summary: HB 30 would require universities to establish articulation agreements for at least five degree plans with community colleges that have transferred at least 5% of their students within the last three years. This legislation would also require universities to provide information about at least twelve courses that are commonly transferable.
Furthermore, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, rather than the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, would establish the minimum number of hours needed to complete an undergraduate degree. HB 30 would allow a student to not take more than the minimum number of semester credit hours to receive a baccalaureate or associate’s degree, unless the academic accreditation or professional licensure required it.
Lastly, the legislation would require universities to clearly show the core classes added, removed or changed and work with the Coordinating Board to develop a common course numbering system. An advisory committee made up of the Coordinating Board and university administrators would develop a course-specific core curriculum that would assist students in transferring course credit hours for courses they have successfully completed.
Analysis: HB 30 would give students more freedom to determine their educational options as well as succeed in obtaining their degrees. The articulation agreements provide course transparency and minimize barriers to graduating. HB 30 would also give the freedom for community colleges and universities to associate with each other in providing a transparent and efficient process in transferring credits as well as completing degree programs. We support HB 30.