Texas House Bill HB712

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 12/21/16

Caption

Relating to a single common course numbering system for public institutions of higher education in this state.

Impact

The bill's impact on state laws primarily involves amendments to the Education Code. It mandates that each institution of higher education adopts the approved common course numbering system in its guidelines regarding course credit transfer. This system is expected to enhance clarity and accessibility for students navigating the complexities of transferring their academic credits, thereby supporting better educational mobility and retention rates among students in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 712 aims to implement a single common course numbering system for public institutions of higher education in Texas. The legislation is designed to simplify and standardize the transfer of course credits among different colleges and universities. By adopting this common numbering system, the bill seeks to ensure consistency in course identification across institutions, facilitating a smoother transition for students who change schools or transfer credits from one institution to another.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, the implementation of a single common course numbering system may encounter challenges. Stakeholders from various institutions may have differing opinions about the appropriateness and practicality of a standardized system, as they could see it as limiting their autonomy in curriculum development. Additionally, there could be concerns regarding the adequacy of the common courses offered compared to specific institutional offerings, which may create a barrier to effectively meet unique student needs.