The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (Coordinating Board) proposes new §5.52. The new section would require each public institution of higher education to have a process to assess the quality and effectiveness of existing degree programs for continuous improvement. The new section would authorize the Coordinating Board staff to develop a process for conducting a periodic audit of the quality and effectiveness of existing bachelor's and master's programs at public institutions of higher education.

Dr. MacGregor M. Stephenson, Assistant Commissioner for Academic Affairs and Research, has determined that for each year of the first five years the chapter is in effect, there will be no fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Stephenson has also determined that for each year of the first five years the chapter is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering the section will be in enabling institutions of higher education to address workforce needs and student demand for new programs more quickly and efficiently. In addition, the public will benefit by the Coordinating Board staff work focusing on the quality of existing degree programs in the state of Texas, rather than on the upfront review. There is no effect on small or micro businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to MacGregor Stephenson, Assistant Commissioner, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711 or macgregor.stephenson@thecb.state.tx.us. Comments will be accepted for 30 days following publication of the proposal in the Texas Register.

The new section is proposed under the Texas Education Code, Chapter 61, which provides the Coordinating Board with the authority to regulate the awarding or offering of degrees, credit toward degrees, and the use of certain terms.

The new section affects implementation of Texas Education Code, §§61.3021 and 61.304 - 61.319.