BILL ANALYSIS
By: Morrison
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
The University of Houston-Victoria does not propose to offer programs beyond the master’s level in the near future and has proposed none in the current fourth-year revision of its mission statement and table of programs. However, the university may, in time, wish to consider intermediate degrees such as the Education Specialist or even applied doctorates, should these more advanced programs better serve the needs of the region and the state.
Before committing resources to any new program, the university would first have to gain preliminary approval to bring forward a proposal from the board of regents and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. It would then need to gain approval of the proposed program from both boards, as well as from the regional accrediting body (the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools). This process typically takes several years and requires that the university demonstrate the need, the benefit, and the resources available for offering a new degree program. HB 1215 would change statutory language to enable consideration of more advanced graduate programs at the University of Houston-Victoria.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.
ANALYSIS
SECTION 1 - Makes a statutory language change to provide that the University of Houston-Victoria may offer “graduate” level programs, rather than “master’s” level programs.
SECTION 2. - Effective date.
EFFECTIVE DATE
This Act takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2005.