NACOGDOCHES – Governor Greg Abbott today called on Texas public colleges and universities to establish three-year degree options for undergraduate students. The Governor’s initiative will give Texas students the option to earn certain bachelor’s degrees in three years and require Texas public universities to offer accelerated 90-credit-hour degree programs in high-demand, high-paying fields. He made his announcement following a roundtable discussion with state lawmakers, Stephen F. Austin State University leadership, and students.
“We must not only improve student outcomes in K-12 education but also supply the tools vital for student success in Texas higher education institutions,” said Governor Abbott. “Every Texas student deserves the chance to pursue their academic goals fully, and the option to do so on an accelerated timeline to save time and money.”
Three-year degree options would allow students to save up to $35,000 in tuition and living expenses, helping keep higher education affordable and attainable for all Texans.
Additionally, earlier this week, Governor Abbott announced a proposal to offer discounted summer courses, helping students save money and graduate sooner. The Governor has also previously announced measures to improve K-12 public education which include limiting screen time in classrooms, providing additional reading and math support, eliminating foreign influence in the classroom, and directing more education dollars to teachers and students instead of administrators.
Today’s announcement builds on Governor Abbott’s broader Keep Texas Affordable agenda, including cutting property taxes, freezing tuition and fees at Texas public colleges and universities, lowering home and auto insurance costs, reducing healthcare and prescription drug costs, and giving Texans a choice in their electricity provider.
Click here to learn more about Governor Abbott’s education agenda.
Additional photos from the event will be provided here when available.
