TX
Texas House Bill HB1142

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1142

Caption

Relating to the inclusion of transfer pathways in the guidelines addressing transfer practices published by general academic teaching institutions.

Impact

This legislation is set to improve transparency and consistency in how course credits are recognized across institutions. By standardizing the information available on transfer pathways, students will have clearer guidance on how their previous coursework can transfer, potentially reducing barriers to obtaining degrees. Additionally, the annual review requirement ensures that the pathways remain current, reflecting changes in curriculum or course offerings, which contributes to an adaptive and responsive educational environment.

Summary

House Bill 1142 aims to enhance the transfer practices within Texas's higher education system by requiring general academic teaching institutions to publish comprehensive guidelines for the transfer of course credits. Specifically, the bill mandates that each institution must develop and publish transfer pathways for the top 25 majors that students frequently pursue. These pathways will delineate lower division course requirements and specify which courses from public junior colleges can be transferred for credit towards the major or core curriculum. The intention is to streamline the process for students transitioning between different institutions within the state.

Contention

While the bill is primarily seen as a positive step towards enhancing student mobility within the Texas education system, there could be concerns about the implementation and administrative burden placed on institutions to keep these pathways updated. Furthermore, some stakeholders may debate the adequacy of the identified courses and their alignment with the needs of various majors. Institutions may need to allocate resources to develop and maintain these pathways, which could impact funding and staffing.

Notable_points

Overall, HB1142 is a significant legislative effort aimed at facilitating smoother transitions between higher education institutions in Texas, thereby supporting students in achieving their academic goals. By mandating the publication of transfer pathways, the bill is expected to foster greater enrollment stability and retention among students moving between colleges and universities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB48

Relating to a single common course numbering system for and the transfer of course credit among public institutions of higher education in this state.

TX HB878

Relating to a single common course numbering system for and the transfer of course credit among public institutions of higher education in this state.

TX SB1887

Relating to the requirements for the early college education program and the transfer of course credit among public institutions of higher education.

TX HB1595

Relating to the administration and investment of, and distribution and use of money from, certain constitutional and statutory funds to support general academic teaching institutions in achieving national prominence as major research universities and driving the state economy.

TX SB708

Relating to certain credentials of value offered by general academic teaching institutions as part of a baccalaureate degree program.

TX HB3471

Relating to the general responsibility of public institutions of higher education and to protected expression and academic freedom at those institutions.

TX HB2448

Relating to creating a framework for including certain credentials of value offered by general academic teaching institutions as part of a baccalaureate degree program.

TX SB19

Relating to the administration and investment of, and distribution and use of money from, certain constitutional and statutory funds to support general academic teaching institutions in achieving national prominence as major research universities and driving the state economy; redesignating the national research university fund as the Texas University Fund.

TX HB8

Relating to public higher education, including the public junior college state finance program.

TX SB1987

Relating to the accreditation of certain postsecondary educational institutions in this state or of certain programs offered by those institutions.

Similar Bills

NJ A4220

Revises Statewide transfer agreements for transfer of academic credit and reverse credit at participating institutions of higher education; establishes New Jersey Transfer Ombudsperson within Office of Secretary of Higher Education.

NJ S3178

Directs Secretary of Higher Education to establish academic credit and reverse credit transfer standards; establishes New Jersey Transfer Ombudsman within Office of Secretary of Higher Education.

CO SB164

Institution of Higher Education Transparency Requirements

WV HB3024

Guaranteed course transfer bill

CA AB2030

Student financial aid: Cal Grant Program.

CA AB1307

Student financial aid: Cal Grant program.

MD HB598

Higher Education - Transfer Platform - Established (Transfer With Success Act 2.0)

TX HB3768

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Guided Pathways program to facilitate the completion by students of undergraduate certificate and degree programs.