The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (Coordinating Board) proposes amendments to §5.46 relating to Criteria for New Doctoral Programs. The intent of the amendments is to clearly delineate the criteria for approval of new doctoral programs and clarify the information and documentation that public universities and health-related institutions must submit when requesting a new doctoral program.

Dr. Rex C. Peebles, Assistant Commissioner for Academic Quality and Workforce, has determined that for the first five years there will be no fiscal implications for state or local governments as a result of amending this section.

Dr. Peebles has also determined that for the first five years the amendments are in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of administering the section will be the clarification of the criteria for approval of new doctoral programs. There are no significant economic costs anticipated to persons and institutions who are required to comply with the section as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted by mail to Rex C. Peebles, Assistant Commissioner, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711 or via email at AQWComments@THECB.state.tx.us comments will be accepted for 30 days following publication of the proposal in the Texas Register.

The amendments are proposed under the Texas Education Code, Chapter 61, Subchapter C, §61.0512, which provides the Coordinating Board with the authority to approve new degree programs.

The amendments affect the implementation of Texas Education Code, §61.0512.