Texas House Bill HB1938

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to curriculum requirements in American and Texas history at institutions of higher education.

Impact

The amendments introduced by HB 1938 will directly affect the academic standards for receiving degrees from state-supported institutions. The impact is particularly significant in ensuring that all graduates possess a basic understanding of American and Texas history, therefore fostering a more informed citizenry. By mandating these educational foundations, the bill aims to enhance the cultural and historical literacy of graduates, benefiting the state by developing a population that is more knowledgeable about its own legacy and governance.

Summary

House Bill 1938 seeks to establish specific curriculum requirements for institutions of higher education in Texas concerning American and Texas history. The bill stipulates that colleges and universities receiving state funding cannot grant baccalaureate or lesser degrees unless students complete a designated number of semester hours in courses providing a comprehensive survey of American History. Additionally, students may earn up to three semester hours of credit in Texas History to satisfy this requirement. This change emphasizes the importance of historical education as a foundational component of higher education qualifications in Texas.

Contention

While the bill presents a clear commitment to historical education, it may also encounter opposition regarding the nature of curriculum requirements. Critics could argue that such mandates may infringe upon the academic autonomy of universities, forcing them to adhere to state-defined educational parameters that might not align with their educational philosophies. Additionally, there may be concerns raised about the sufficiency and scope of courses deemed acceptable for fulfilling these requirements, including debates over what constitutes a comprehensive survey of either American or Texas history.