TITLE 19.EDUCATION

Part 1. TEXAS HIGHER EDUCATION COORDINATING BOARD

Chapter 4. RULES APPLYING TO ALL PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN TEXAS

Subchapter A. GENERAL PROVISIONS

19 TAC §§4.1 - 4.8

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§4.1 - 4.8, concerning general oversight of public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges (General Provisions). Specifically, these new sections replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . The new sections assemble in one chapter, renumber, and clarify current Board rules regarding the general oversight of all public higher education institutions. Sections 4.1, 4.2, and 4.3 provide the purpose and authority for this subchapter and new definitions applicable to this subchapter. Sections 4.6 - 4.8 amends current language to clarify expected minimum course length for traditionally-delivered courses and state expectations for non-traditionally-delivered courses taken for college credit.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new sections are proposed under the Texas Education Code, Section 61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; Section 61.002, which establishes the Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; Section 61.051, which provides the Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; Texas Education Code, Section 51.911, which requires institutions of higher education to allow absences for religious holy days; Texas Education Code, Section 61.0815, which requires institutions to report expert witnesses; Texas Education Code 61.051(g), and Texas Education Code, Sections 61.821-831, which authorizes the Board to adopt rules and establish policies and procedures for the development, adoption, implementation, and evaluation of core curricula, field of study curricula, and a transfer dispute resolution process; Texas Education Code, Section 51.307, which authorizes the Board to adopt rules to implement the provisions of Texas Education Code, Sections 51.306 - 51.308 and Texas Education Code, Section 51.403(e), regarding Testing and Development Education; Texas Education Code, Sections 29.182, 29.184, 61.027, 61.076(j), 130.001(b)(3) - (4), 130.008, 130.090, and 135.06(d), which provide the Board with the authority to regulate dual credit partnerships between public two-year associate degree-granting institutions and public universities with secondary schools; and Texas Education Code, Section 61.088, which authorizes the Board to establish rules for the organization and operation of the Texas State Science and Engineering Fair

The new rules affect Texas Education Code, §§61.002, 61.051, 51.911, 61.0815, 61.821-831, 51.307, 51.306 - 51.308, 51.403(e), 29.182, 29.184, 61.027, 61.076(j), 130.001(b)(3) - (4), 130.008, 130.090, 135.0(d), and 61.088.

§4.1.Purpose.

This section establishes rules on a variety of topics that apply exclusively to public institutions of higher education.

§4.2.Authority.

Unless otherwise noted in a section, the authority for these provisions is provided by Texas Education Code, §61.051 which describes the Board's role in the Texas system of higher education.

§4.3.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(1) Associate of Science degree and the Associate of Arts degree--collegiate degrees consisting of lower-division courses designed to prepare students for transfer to a bachelor's degree program.

(2) Associate of Applied Science degree and the Associate of Applied Arts degree--technical certificates issued to students who complete workforce education curricula of collegiate level.

(3) Bachelor of General Studies degree--a program designed principally for mature students who seek a flexible degree program and who do not desire or may not meet prerequisites of a highly structured traditional degree program, and to permit students to plan, with advisement, an individualized program with access to a wide range of academic disciplines and fields of professional study.

(4) Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences degree--a program designed to provide a path to a bachelor's degree for students who have earned previous collegiate credit through workforce education curricula. The degree program combines general education requirements and a professional component designed to complement the student's technical or vocational competence.

(5) Board--The Texas Higher Education Board.

(6) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education.

(7) Common calendar--dates and information pertaining to the beginning and ending (and lengths) of academic semesters and sessions, applicable to all Texas public universities and community, technical and state colleges.

(8) Consulting or testifying expert witness--any non-fact witness whose name must be disclosed during litigation as required by the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.

(9) Degree program--any grouping of subject matter courses which, when satisfactorily completed by a student, will entitle the student to a degree from an institution of higher education.

(10) Faculty or professional staff of an institution of higher education--a non-classified, full-time employee who is a member of the faculty or staff and whose duties include teaching, research, administration or performing professional services, including professional library services.

(11) Fiscal year--the State of Texas' fiscal year, September 1 through August 31.

(12) Institution of higher education or institution--any public technical institute, public junior college, public senior college or university, medical or dental unit, or other agency of higher education as defined in Texas Education Code, §61.003.

(13) Interdisciplinary baccalaureate degrees--the Bachelor of General Studies degree (defined in paragraph (4) of this section) and such general degrees as liberal arts or humanities. These broad-based degrees vary in the amount of prescriptive structure but share the characteristics of flexibility for the student and interdisciplinary course selection.

(14) Non-classified--an employee whose position is not controlled by the institution's classified personnel system or a person employed in a similar position if the institution does not have a classified personnel system.

(15) Religious holy day--A holy day observed by a religion whose places of worship are exempt from property taxation under the Texas Tax Code, §11.20.

§4.4.Student Absences on Religious Holy Days.

(a) Under Texas Education Code, §51.911, all institutions of higher education shall allow a student who is absent from classes for the observance of a religious holy day to take an examination or complete an assignment scheduled for that day within a reasonable time after the absence if, not later than the 15th day after the first day of the semester, the student notifies the instructor of each class the student had scheduled on that date that the student would be absent for a religious holy day.

(b) Each institution of higher education shall develop and include in its official bulletins, catalogs, and other appropriate publications a statement regarding its attendance policies and procedures for religious holy days. If the institution publishes a list of important academic dates or other schedule of significant dates, it would be appropriate to include the deadline date for notification by students to faculty members as set out in this section.

(c) Notifications of planned absences must be in writing and must be delivered by the student either personally to the instructor of each class, with receipt of the notification acknowledged and dated by the instructor; or by certified mail, return receipt requested, addressed to the instructor of each class.

(d) Each institution may include in its policies and procedures provisions whereby the instructor may appropriately respond if the student fails to satisfactorily complete the assignment or examination within a reasonable time after the absence. Such provisions must be communicated to the student when the student notifies the instructor of a planned absence under this section.

(e) Each institution may exclude from these policies and procedures any student absence for religious holy days which may interfere with patient care.

(f) An institution choosing to establish more lenient polices with respect to the freedom of students to observe religious holy days may do so.

§4.5.Common Calendar.

(a) The Commissioner shall establish and periodically update a common calendar for Texas public universities and community, technical and state colleges.

(b) The Commissioner may grant waivers to the common calendar to benefit students and/or to improve the efficient operations of the institutions.

(c) A semester normally shall include 15 weeks for instruction and one week for final examinations or a total of 16 weeks instruction and examinations combined. Every fall semester will end before Christmas, but not later than December 23.

(d) The summer session shall be considered an integral part of the college year and maximum use should be made of the summer session. Each of the two summer terms shall include no less than 5 1/2 calendar weeks, including registration, instructions, and final examinations. Colleges may register students for a six semester credit hour load for each 5 1/2-week summer term. Colleges and universities may schedule summer terms longer or shorter than 5 1/2 weeks, but the amount of credit students are allowed to enroll for must be proportional.

(e) Each college and university shall establish its own dates for orientation, registration, holidays, final examinations, and the end of each semester and summer term consistent with subsections (c) and (d) of this section.

(f) The Texas Education Agency shall be notified of the calendar adopted and be encouraged to communicate with the Board about possible further coordination of school and college calendar.

(g) Nothing in this section shall be interpreted to preclude experimentation and innovation by any institution looking toward full utilization of facilities on a year-round basis.

§4.6.Minimum Length of Courses and Limitation on the Amount of Credit that a Student May Earn in a Given Time Period.

(a) Traditionally-delivered three-semester-credit-hour courses should contain 15 weeks of instruction (45 contact hours) plus a week for final examinations so that such a course contains 45 to 48 contact hours depending on whether there is a final exam.

(b) Every college course is assumed to involve a significant amount of non-contact hour time for out-of-class student learning and reflection. To ensure the quality of student learning, institutions should not allow students to carry more courses in any term (that is, regular or shortened semester), which would allow them to earn more than one semester credit hour per week over the course of the term. For example, in a five and a half week summer term, students should not generally be allowed to enroll for more than six semester credit hours.

(c) Institutions should have a formal written policy for addressing any exceptions to subsection (b) of this section.

(d) Courses delivered in shortened semesters are expected to have the same number of contact hours and the same requirement for out-of-class learning as courses taught in a normal semester.

(e) Institutions may offer a course in a non-traditional way (for example, over the internet, or through a shortened, intensive format) that does not meet these contact hour requirements, if the course has been reviewed and approved through a formal, institutional faculty review process that evaluates the course and its learning outcomes and determines that the course does, in fact, have equivalent learning outcomes to an equivalent, traditionally delivered course.

§4.7.Student Transcripts.

(a) Student transcripts shall contain a record of each state funded course attempted by a student at the transcripting institution after January 1, 1998. This includes all courses for which the student was enrolled as of the official census date each term, including developmental education courses, courses that were not completed, courses that were dropped, and courses that were repeated.

(b) After September 1, 1998, the student transcript or an addendum to the transcript certified by the appropriate institutional official shall contain a record of the student's status in regard to the Texas Academic Skills Program (TASP). Depending on the status of the individual student, the document should include the status for each section of the test (reading, mathematics, writing) with information as to how the student met the TASP requirement (TASP test or other test scores, "B" or better courses with grades and course numbers). The information provided should enable receiving institutions to use the transcript or the addendum as a single source of information to determine the student's TASP status.

(c) Student transcripts created after September 1, 2000 should be maintained by the institutions in a format suitable for electronic interchange. The format of transcripts shall be the format that is used to store the most transcripts by Texas institutions of higher education as of September 1, 1998 or another format adopted by a majority of the members of the Texas Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers.

(d) Student transcripts or an addendum to the transcript certified by the appropriate institutional official shall identify all courses completed in satisfaction of the core curriculum as specified in §4.28 (h) of this title (relating to Transfer of Credit, Core Curriculum and Field of Study Curricula).

§4.8.Expert Witnesses.

(a) Under Texas Education Code, §61.0815, the president of an institution of higher education shall file a written report with the Board regarding members of the faculty or professional staff who received compensation for serving as consulting or testifying expert witnesses during the prior fiscal year in lawsuits in which the stat is a party.

(b) The report shall be filed with the Board no later than September 30 of each year and shall contain:

(1) the number of hours spent by faculty or professional staff members serving as consulting or testifying expert witnesses during the prior fiscal year;

(2) the names of the parties, cause number and county where the cause is filed, for each case in which qualifying expert witness services was rendered; and

(3) the outcome of the case, including the amount of:

(A) any judgment entered against the state;

(B) any prejudgment or postjudgment interest awarded against the state; and

(C) any attorney's fees of another party ordered to be paid by the state.

(c) The information regarding the number of hours spent by faculty or staff serving as consulting or testifying expert witnesses shall be reported to the Board in the aggregate without identifying specific individuals.

(d) In the event an institution cannot provide the information specified in subsection (b) of this section, the Texas Attorney General's Office shall be requested to provide the information to the Board.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301039

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter B. TRANSFER OF CREDIT, CORE CURRICULUM AND FIELD OF STUDY CURRICULA

19 TAC §§4.21 - 4.34

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§4.21 - 4.34, concerning general oversight of public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges (Transfer of Credit, Core Curriculum and Field of Study Curricula). Specifically, these new sections replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . The new sections assemble in one chapter, renumber, and clarify current Board rules regarding the general oversight of all public higher education institutions. The new rules amend and clarify current rules. New definitions have been added and the language has been edited for consistency. The procedures for resolution of transfer disputes for lower-division courses describe who may request such a resolution and what the responsibilities of the institutions are in notifying each other and the Commissioner of Higher Education in the event of a dispute. Another clarification specifies that health-related institutions will now be required to adopt core curricula for all baccalaureate programs. Other clarifications include identification of those institutions which must adopt a core curriculum and the addition of identifying numbers for core-curriculum component areas to be used for indicating completed core courses on student transcripts. New sections clarify the institutional responsibility for evaluating their compliance with Board-adopted Field of Study Curricula and for reporting the results of those evaluations. Other new sections establish a procedure for modifying an existing core curriculum or field of study curriculum.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new rules are proposed under the Texas Education Code, Section 61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; Section 61.002, which establishes the Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; Section 61.051, which provides the Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; Texas Education Code, Section 51.911, which requires institutions of higher education to allow absences for religious holy days; Texas Education Code, Section 61.0815, which requires institutions to report expert witnesses; Texas Education Code 61.051(g), and Texas Education Code, Sections 61.821-831, which authorizes the Board to adopt rules and establish policies and procedures for the development, adoption, implementation, and evaluation of core curricula, field of study curricula, and a transfer dispute resolution process; Texas Education Code, Section 51.307, which authorizes the Board to adopt rules to implement the provisions of Texas Education Code, Sections 51.306 - 51.308 and Texas Education Code, Section 51.403(e), regarding Testing and Development Education; Texas Education Code, Sections 29.182, 29.184, 61.027, 61.076(j), 130.001(b)(3) - (4), 130.008, 130.090, and 135.06(d), which provide the Board with the authority to regulate dual credit partnerships between public two-year associate degree-granting institutions and public universities with secondary schools; and Texas Education Code, Section 61.088, which authorizes the Board to establish rules for the organization and operation of the Texas State Science and Engineering Fair

The new rules affect Texas Education Code, §§61.002, 61.051, 51.911, 61.0815, 61.821-831, 51.307, 51.306 - 51.308, 51.403(e), 29.182, 29.184, 61.027, 61.076(j), 130.001(b)(3) - (4), 130.008, 130.090, 135.0(d), and 61.088.

§4.21.Purpose.

The purpose of this subchapter is to provide for the development and implementation of policies that encourage the free and appropriate transferability of lower division course credit among institutions of higher education, and especially to provide for the smooth transfer of lower division credit through core curricula, field of study curricula, and a procedure for the resolution of transfer disputes.

§4.22.Authority.

The Board is authorized to adopt rules and establish policies and procedures for the development, adoption, implementation, and evaluation of core curricula, field of study curricula, and a transfer dispute resolution process under Texas Education Code §61.051 (g), and Texas Education Code §§61.821-831.

§4.23.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1) Board--The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

(2) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education

(3) Core Curriculum--the curriculum in the liberal arts, humanities, sciences, and political, social, and cultural history that all undergraduates of an institution of higher education are required to complete before receiving an academic undergraduate degree. Core curriculum provisions apply to public colleges and universities, and to academic degree programs offered at health-related institutions.

(4) Field of Study Curriculum (FOSC)--a set of courses that will satisfy the lower-division requirements for a baccalaureate degree in a specific academic area at a general academic teaching institution. A field of study curriculum affects academic degree programs at public colleges or universities as designated within the particular field of study curriculum.

(5) Course consistent with the Texas Common Course Numbering System (TCCNS)--a lower-division course that meets one of three conditions:

(A) it has an assigned a TCCNS number and is listed in the Lower Division Academic Course Guide Manual;

(B) a TCCNS number and inclusion in the Lower Division Academic Course Guide Manual have been requested for the course; or

(C) the institution which offers the course has specified at least one TCCNS course listed in the Lower Division Academic Course Guide Manual that will be accepted in transfer in lieu of the course.

(6) Institution of Higher Education or institution--any public technical institute, public junior college, public senior college or university, medical or dental unit, other agency of higher education as defined in Texas Education Code, §61.003.

(7) The Lower Division Academic Course Guide Manual (ACGM)--an official Board publication that lists a basic core of general academic courses which are freely transferable among all public institutions of higher education in Texas in accordance with the Texas Education Code, §61.051(g). TCCNS numbers are assigned to most courses in the manual.

(8) Faculty member--a person who is employed full-time by an institution of higher education as a member of the faculty whose primary duties include teaching, research, academic service, or administration. However, the term does not include a person holding faculty rank who spends a majority of the person's time for the institution engaged in managerial or supervisory activities, including a chancellor, vice chancellor, president, vice president, provost, associate of assistant provost, or dean.

§4.24.General Provisions.

(a) All successfully completed lower-division academic courses that are identified by the Texas Common Course Numbering System (TCCNS) and published in the Lower Division Academic Course Guide Manual (ACGM) shall be fully transferable among public institutions and shall be substituted for the equivalent course at the receiving institution. Except in the case of courses belonging to a Board-approved Field of Study Curriculum (FOSC), applicability of transferred courses to requirements for specific degree programs is determined by the receiving institution.

(b) Nothing in this subchapter restricts the authority of an institution of higher education to adopt its own admission standards in compliance with this subchapter or its own grading policies so long as it treats transfer students and native students in the same manner.

(c) Institutional policies regarding acceptance of credit for correspondence courses, credit-by-examination, and other credit-earning instruments must be consistent with Southern Association of Colleges and Schools' guidelines and must treat transfer students and native students in the same manner.

(d) This subchapter applies specifically to academic courses and degree programs, and does not apply to technical courses or technical degree programs.

§4.25.Requirements and Limitations.

(a) Each institution of higher education shall identify in its undergraduate catalog each lower-division course that is substantially equivalent to an academic course listed in the current edition of the Lower Division Academic Course Guide Manual.

(b) Each university must offer at least 45 semester credit hours of academic courses that are substantially equivalent to courses listed in the Lower Division Academic Course Guide Manual including those that fulfill the lower-division portion of the institution's Core Curriculum.

(c) All public colleges and universities must accept transfer of credit for successfully completed courses identified in subsections (a) and (b) of this section as applicable to an associate or baccalaureate degree in the same manner as credit awarded to non-transfer students in that degree program.

(d) Each institution shall be required to accept in transfer into a baccalaureate degree program the number of lower-division credit hours in the program which are allowed for their non-transfer students in that program; however,

(1) No institution shall be required to accept in transfer more credit hours in the major area of a degree program than the number set out in any applicable Board-approved Field of Study Curriculum for that program.

(2) In any degree program for which there is no Board-approved Field of Study Curriculum, no institution shall be required to accept in transfer more lower-division course credit in the major applicable to a baccalaureate degree than the institution allows their non-transfer students in that major.

(3) An institution of higher education may deny the transfer of credit in courses with a grade of "D" as applicable to the student's field of study curriculum courses, core curriculum courses, or major.

(e) All senior institutions of higher education in Texas shall provide support services for transfer students equivalent to those provided to non-transfer students regularly enrolled at the institutions, including an orientation program for transfer students equivalent to that provided for entering freshman enrollees.

(f) No university shall be required to accept in transfer or toward a degree program, more than sixty-six (66) semester credit hours of lower-division academic credit. Universities, however, may choose to accept additional credit hours.

§4.26.Penalty for Noncompliance with Transfer Rules.

If it is determined by the Board that an institution inappropriately or unnecessarily required a student to retake a course that is substantially equivalent to a course already taken at another institution, in violation of the provisions of §4.25 of this title (relating to Requirements and Limitations), formula funding for credit hours in the repeated course will be deducted from the institution's appropriation.

§4.27.Resolution of Transfer Disputes for Lower-Division Courses.

(a) The following procedures shall be followed by institutions of higher education in the resolution of credit transfer disputes involving lower-division courses:

(1) If an institution of higher education does not accept course credit earned by a student at another institution of higher education, the receiving institution shall give written notice to the student and to the sending institution that transfer of the course credit is denied, and shall include in that notice the reasons for denying the credit. Attached to the written notice shall be the procedures for resolution of transfer disputes for lower-division courses as outlined in this section, accompanied by clear instructions outlining the procedure for appealing the decision to the Commissioner.

(2) A student who receives notice as specified in paragraph (1) of this subsection may dispute the denial of credit by contacting a designated official at either the sending or the receiving institution.

(3) The two institutions and the student shall attempt to resolve the transfer of the course credit in accordance with Board rules and guidelines.

(4) If the transfer dispute is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student or the sending institution within 45 days after the date the student received written notice of denial, the sending institution may notify the Commissioner in writing of the request for transfer dispute resolution, and the institution that denies the course credit for transfer shall notify the Commissioner in writing of its denial and the reasons for the denial.

(b) The Commissioner or the Commissioner's designee shall make the final determination about a dispute concerning the transfer of course credit and give written notice of the determination to the involved student and institutions.

(c) Each institution of higher education shall publish in its course catalogs the procedures specified in subsections (a), (b), (d), and (e) of this section.

(d) The Board shall collect data on the types of transfer disputes that are reported and the disposition of each case that is considered by the Commissioner or the Commissioner's designee.

(e) If a receiving institution has cause to believe that a course being presented by a student for transfer from another school is not of an acceptable level of quality, it should first contact the sending institution and attempt to resolve the problem. In the event that the two institutions are unable to come to a satisfactory resolution, the receiving institution may notify the Commissioner, who may investigate the course. If its quality is found to be unacceptable, the Board may discontinue funding for the course.

§4.28.Core Curriculum.

(a) In accordance with Texas Education Code, §§61.821-831, each general academic institution, community college, and health-related institution shall design and implement a core curriculum, including specific courses composing the curriculum, of no less than 42 lower-division semester credit hours. Health-related institutions should encourage their students to complete their core curriculum requirement at a general academic institution or community college.

(b) Each institution's core curriculum must be designed to satisfy the exemplary educational objectives specified for the component areas of the "Core Curriculum: Assumptions and Defining Characteristics" adopted by the Board; all lower-division courses included in the core curriculum must be consistent with the "Texas Common Course Numbering System," and must be consistent with the framework identified in Charts I and II of this subsection. Chart I specifies the minimum number of semester credit hours required in each of five major component areas that a core curriculum must include (with sub-areas noted in parentheses). Chart II specifies options available to institutions for the remaining 6-12 semester credit hours.

Figure: 19 TAC §4.28(b)

(c) If a student successfully completes the 42 semester credit hour core curriculum at an institution of higher education, that block of courses may be transferred to any other institution of higher education and must be substituted for the receiving institution's core curriculum. A student shall receive academic credit for each of the courses transferred and may not be required to take additional core curriculum courses at the receiving institution unless the Board has approved a larger core curriculum at that institution.

(d) A student concurrently enrolled at more than one institution of higher education shall follow the core curriculum requirements in effect for the institution at which the student is classified as a degree-seeking student.

(e) Except as specified in subsection (f) of this section, a student who transfers from one institution of higher education to another without completing the core curriculum of the sending institution shall receive academic credit within the core curriculum of the receiving institution for each of the courses that the student has successfully completed in the core curriculum of the sending institution. Following receipt of credit for these courses, the student may be required to satisfy the remaining course requirements in the core curriculum of the receiving institution.

(f) Each student must meet the minimum number of semester credit hours in each component area; however, an institution receiving a student in transfer is not required to accept component core course semester credit hours beyond the maximum specified in a core component area.

(g) An institution may include within its core curriculum a course or courses that combine exemplary educational objectives from two or more component areas of the exemplary educational objectives defined in this section.

(h) Each institution must note core courses on student transcripts as recommended by the Texas Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (TACRAO).

(i) Each institution must publish and make readily available to students its core curriculum requirements stated in terms consistent with the "Texas Common Course Numbering System."

§4.29.Core Curricula Larger than 42 Semester Credit Hours.

(a) An institution may adopt a core curriculum under this subchapter in excess of 42 semester credit hours, but no more than 48 semester credit hours, if the courses in excess of 42 semester credit hours are selected from the first five component areas of Chart II of §4.28 (b) of this title (relating to Core Curriculum) (excluding additional credit in the Institutionally Designated Option) and are approved by the institution's governing board.

(b) No institution may adopt a core curriculum of more than 42 semester credit hours without approval by the Board if the courses in excess of 42 semester credit hours are selected from component areas other than the first five component areas of Chart II of §4.28 (b) of this title (relating to Transfer of Credit, Core Curriculum and Field of Study Curricula). The Board may approve a core curriculum under this section if:

(1) It has been previously approved by the institution's governing board;

(2) The institution has provided to the Board a narrative justification of the need and appropriateness of a larger core curriculum that is consistent with its role and mission; and

(3) No proposed upper-division core course is substantially comparable in content or depth of study to a lower-division course listed in the "Texas Common Course Numbering System."

§4.30.Criteria for Evaluation of Core Curricula.

(a) Each public institution of higher education shall review and evaluate its core curriculum every five years and report the results of that evaluation to the Board. The evaluation should include:

(1) the extent to which the core curriculum is consistent with the elements of the core curriculum recommended by the Board;

(2) the extent to which the core curriculum is consistent with the Texas Common Course Numbering System (TCCNS);

(3) the extent to which the core curriculum is consistent with the elements of the core curriculum component areas, intellectual competencies, and perspectives as expressed in Core Curriculum: Assumptions and Defining Characteristics adopted by the Board; and

(4) the extent to which the institution's educational goals and the exemplary educational objectives of the core curriculum recommended by the Board are being achieved;

(b) Each institution's evaluation report must contain at least the following:

(1) a table that compares the institution's core curriculum with the core component areas and exemplary educational objectives of the core curriculum recommended by the Board;

(2) a brief description of the purpose and substance of the institution's core curriculum;

(3) a description of the processes and procedures used to evaluate the institution's core curriculum; and

(4) a description of the ways in which the evaluation results are being or will be utilized to improve the core curriculum at the institution.

§4.31.Revision of Existing Approved Core Curricula.

(a) Each public institution of higher education that does not already have a Board-approved core curriculum on file must submit its proposed core curriculum to the Board for staff review and approval. The request for approval should include a description of the goals of the core curriculum, a table showing the institution's core curriculum by component area (based on the model found in Charts I and II in §4.28 (b) of this title, relating to Core Curriculum), and a complete listing of courses approved by the institution to fulfill core component requirements, organized to reflect each required and supplemental component area of the core curriculum as detailed in the document Core Curriculum: Assumptions and Defining Characteristics, adopted by the Board. Courses should be selected to fulfill component requirements in a core curriculum based at least in part on their ability to meet most of the exemplary educational outcome statements for the component area as described in the document Core Curriculum: Assumptions and Defining Characteristics, adopted by the Board.

(b) An institution should follow these procedures to modify its core curriculum to add or delete courses, change the total number of semester credit hours in a non-required component area, or change the total number of semester credit hours required in its core curriculum:

(1) submit to the Board a letter documenting each change to be made, the component area(s) affected, and a rationale for the change;

(2) requests that involve changing the overall number of semester credit hours in the core curriculum or the number in a given component area require documentation of prior approval by the institution's governing board;

(3) the institution shall receive a letter from the Board staff giving notice of acceptance of the proposed changes and/or indicating any changes that do not meet Board-approved criteria.

(c) Upon receiving an approval letter from Board staff, the institution shall make any required changes to its core curriculum and will document those changes in institutional publications.

§4.32.Field of Study Curricula.

(a) In accordance with Texas Education Code, §61.823, the Board approves field of study curricula for certain fields of study/academic disciplines. Field of study curricula shall be developed with the assistance of advisory committees whose membership includes at least a majority of members who are teaching faculty (as defined by §4.23 (8) of this title, relating to Definitions for Core Curriculum and Field of Study Curricula) within the field of study under consideration.

(b) If a student successfully completes a field of study curriculum developed by the Board, that block of courses may be transferred to a general academic teaching institution and must be substituted for that institution's lower-division requirements for the degree program for the field of study into which the student transfers, and the student shall receive full academic credit toward the degree program for the block of courses transferred.

(c) A student who transfers from one institution of higher education to another without completing the field of study curriculum of the sending institution shall receive academic credit in the field of study curriculum of the receiving institution for each of the courses that the student has successfully completed in the field of study curriculum of the sending institution. Following receipt of credit for these courses, the student may be required to satisfy the remaining course requirements in the field of study curriculum of the receiving institution, or to complete additional requirements in the receiving institution's program, as long as those requirements do not duplicate course content already completed through the field of study curriculum.

(d) A student concurrently enrolled at more than one institution of higher education shall follow the field of study curriculum requirements of the institution at which the student is classified as a degree-seeking student.

(e) Each institution must note core courses on student transcripts as recommended by the Texas Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (TACRAO).

(f) Each institution must review and evaluate its procedures for complying with field of study curricula at intervals specified by the Board and shall report the results of that review to the Board. These reports shall be submitted following the same timetable as the regular reports of core curriculum evaluations.

§4.33.Criteria for Evaluation of Field of Study Curricula.

(a) Every five years, each public institution of higher education shall review and evaluate its policies and practices regarding the acceptance and application of credit earned as part of a Board-approved field of study curriculum, and reports the results of that evaluation to the Board. The evaluation should include:

(1) the extent to which the institution's compliance with the acceptance of transfer credit through field of study curricula is being achieved;

(2) the extent to which the institution's application to the appropriate degree program of credit earned as part of a Board-approved field of study curriculum facilitates academic success;

(3) the effectiveness of field of study curricula in the retention and graduation of transfer students in those degree programs that have Board-approved field of study curricula.

(b) Each institution's evaluation report must contain at least the following:

(1) a listing of the institution's degree programs that have Board-approved field of study curricula;

(2) a description of the institution's policies and practices regarding applicable Board-approved field of study curricula, including admission-point evaluation of transfer credit, advising practices (including catalogue and website information on existing field of study curricula and advising/counseling practices for enrolled students), and transcripting practices to show field of study participation and completion;

(3) a chart or table showing the number of total transfer students for each degree program that has a Board-approved field of study curriculum, for each of the last five years; the chart should indicate year-by-year the percentage of students who transferred having completed the applicable field of study curriculum, the percentage of students who transferred without having completed the applicable field of study curriculum, and any information about progress toward graduation or graduation rates that can compare transfer student performance with non-transfer student performance during the evaluation period.

§4.34.Revision of Existing Approved Field of Study Curricula.

(a) The Board shall have the authority to modify or revise a Board-approved field of study curriculum when a need for such a revision is identified, as specified in current Board policy and procedures.

(b) The need for a revision or modification to a Board-approved field of study curriculum may be identified by one the following methods, or by other methods that are similarly appropriate:

(1) notice of a change in licensure, certification, or accreditation standards that would affect the field of study curriculum and lower-division requirements for a field of study or academic discipline;

(2) notice of a change in curricular structure or content that is part of a pervasive change in the academic discipline served by the field of study curriculum, as documented by national or regional professional organizations, faculty organizations, or other indicators of best practices in the discipline;

(3) receipt of a request from at least three public institutions of higher education that are affected by the field of study curriculum under consideration for modification, including at least one two-year and one four-year academic-degree-granting institution. The request and justifications for the request should be made by the chief academic officers of the institutions, in a joint memorandum sent to the Commissioner.

(c) Any proposed modification or revision to a Board-approved field of study curriculum should be evaluated by an advisory committee convened under the conditions cited in §4.30 (a) of this title (relating to Criteria for Evaluation of Core Curricula). Recommendations for modifications or revisions to a Board-approved field of study curriculum should reflect the advice and wisdom of an advisory committee made up primarily of teaching faculty from the academic discipline(s) affected by the field of study curriculum under consideration.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301040

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter C. TESTING AND DEVELOPMENTAL EDUCATION

19 TAC §§4.51 - 4.59

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§4.51 - 4.59, concerning general oversight of public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges (Testing and Developmental Education). Specifically, these new sections replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . The new sections assemble in one chapter, renumber, and clarify current Board rules regarding the general oversight of all public higher education institutions.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new rules are proposed under the Texas Education Code, Section 61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; Section 61.002, which establishes the Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; Section 61.051, which provides the Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; Texas Education Code, Section 51.911, which requires institutions of higher education to allow absences for religious holy days; Texas Education Code, Section 61.0815, which requires institutions to report expert witnesses; Texas Education Code 61.051(g), and Texas Education Code, Sections 61.821-831, which authorizes the Board to adopt rules and establish policies and procedures for the development, adoption, implementation, and evaluation of core curricula, field of study curricula, and a transfer dispute resolution process; Texas Education Code, Section 51.307, which authorizes the Board to adopt rules to implement the provisions of Texas Education Code, Sections 51.306 - 51.308 and Texas Education Code, Section 51.403(e), regarding Testing and Development Education; Texas Education Code, Sections 29.182, 29.184, 61.027, 61.076(j), 130.001(b)(3) - (4), 130.008, 130.090, and 135.06(d), which provide the Board with the authority to regulate dual credit partnerships between public two-year associate degree-granting institutions and public universities with secondary schools; and Texas Education Code, Section 61.088, which authorizes the Board to establish rules for the organization and operation of the Texas State Science and Engineering Fair

The new rules affect Texas Education Code, §§61.002, 61.051, 51.911, 61.0815, 61.821-831, 51.307, 51.306 - 51.308, 51.403(e), 29.182, 29.184, 61.027, 61.076(j), 130.001(b)(3) - (4), 130.008, 130.090, 135.0(d), and 61.088.

§4.51.Purpose.

The purpose of this subchapter is to implement testing and developmental education criteria for institutions of higher education. It is the intent of the Board that Texas public institutions of higher education use the flexibility and responsibility granted through these rules in such a way as to improve their developmental education programs and help their students succeed in higher education.

§4.52.Authority.

Under Texas Education Code, §51.307, the Board is authorized to adopt rules to implement the provisions of Texas Education Code, §§51.306 - 51.3061. Texas Education Code, §51.403(e) authorizes the Board to establish guidelines and reporting requirements.

§4.53.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1) Accredited Private High School--Non-public schools accredited by the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC), or, if outside of the State of Texas, accredited by an organization similar to the TEPSAC.

(2) Alternative Test--A test instrument other than the TASP Test approved by the Board for use by an institution to initially test a student for TASP purposes.

(3) Blind student and Deaf student--Students who are blind or deaf persons as defined by the Texas Education Code, §54.205(a).

(4) Board--The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(5) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education.

(6) Developmental Education--Courses, tutorials, laboratories, or other efforts to bring student skill levels in reading, writing and mathematics to entering college level. English as a Second Language (ESL) courses may be considered developmental education, but only when they are used to bring student skill levels in reading or writing to entering college level. The term does not include courses in study skills or thinking skills.

(7) Equivalent or Similar Curriculum--At an accredited private high school or at a high school out-of-state, a high school curriculum that has been shown by a student to be equivalent or similar to the recommended or advanced high school curriculum in Texas.

(8) Institution of higher education or institution--any public technical institute, public junior college, public senior college or university, medical or dental unit, or other agency of higher education as defined in Texas Education Code, §61.003.

(9) Minimum Passing Standard--Statewide testing standard each undergraduate student who enters a public institution of higher education, unless exempt, must meet or exceed on measures of reading, writing and mathematics skills in order to fulfill requirements specified in Texas Education Code, §51.306.

(10) Non-Degree Credit Course--A course which may not be counted toward a degree or certificate. The term includes developmental, pre-collegiate and continuing education courses.

(11) Testing irregularity--Any occurrence in the course of administering the TASP Test or detected after administration of the test that violates rules of test participation, standards of test security and/or academic honesty.

(12) TASP--The Texas Academic Skills Program specified in Texas Education Code, §51.306.

(13) TASP requirements--The statutory requirements of Texas Education Code, §51.306.

(14) Texas Academic Skills Program (TASP) Test--The test, other than an alternative test, as defined and reviewed by Texas higher education faculty and approved by the Board, that fulfills the statutory requirements of Texas Education Code, §51.306. The test shall be uniformly administered statewide on days prescribed by the Board and shall be scored by the testing contractor. The test measures college readiness in reading, writing and mathematics and includes a written essay. It is administered under secure conditions and each student is provided with diagnostic information regarding test performance.

(15) Upper-division course--Any degree credit course beyond the sophomore level as defined by a four-year senior university, and any degree credit course offered by an upper-level institution.

§4.54.Institutional Developmental Education Plans.

(a) Each institution of higher education shall adopt a plan for the assessment and placement of undergraduate students entering the institution and for the provision of effective developmental education to students who do not have college-level skills in reading, writing and mathematics. The institutional plan shall provide for quality and accountability, and shall promote improvement in the effectiveness of developmental education programs for student learning at the institution.

(b) The plan must clearly describe the path students must take to meet the TASP requirements at that institution. The plan must specify:

(1) when a student must begin developmental education,

(2) what developmental education must be taken, and

(3) when the student has successfully completed all required developmental work.

(c) An institutional plan shall include advising programs to advise students at every level of undergraduate courses and degree options appropriate for the individual student.

(d) As a part of its plan, an institution may choose to defer developmental education for students who, upon enrollment, are not seeking a degree or Level-Two certificate (43-59 SCH or the equivalent). If such students subsequently choose to seek a degree or Level-Two certificate, all developmental education requirements apply. Institutions must determine student degree- and certificate-seeking status at the beginning of each enrolled term.

(e) Since developmental education plans may vary from institution to institution, each plan shall include provisions for students who transfer from one Texas public institution to another. In addition, the institution's plan shall include provisions for students who transfer from a Texas private or independent institution of higher education or an out-of-state institution.

(f) Institutional plans must include a description of any exceptional circumstances, other than those specified in §4.55(a)(2)(A),(B),(C) and (D) of this title (relating to Eligibility and Exemption/Exceptions), which would be used to permit untested students to enroll in college-level coursework.

(g) The plan must be approved by the governing board of the institution and provided to the Board.

(h) Until the institution's plan is adopted, an institution shall make every effort to apply the rules in this subchapter in a fair and equitable manner.

§4.55.Eligibility and Exemptions/Exceptions.

(a) Eligibility

(1) Each undergraduate student, unless otherwise exempt, who enters an institution of higher education must be tested for reading, writing and mathematics skills prior to enrolling in any collegiate-level coursework. A student who has not been tested may enroll in coursework only under the circumstances provided in §4.55(a)(2) of this title (relating to Exceptional Circumstances), but must take a test approved for TASP purposes not later than the end of the first semester of enrollment. If any student under this section fails to test during the designated semester, the student will not be permitted to re-enroll or to enroll in any institution of higher education in any courses other than non-degree credit courses until he or she has tested.

(2) Exceptional circumstances under which a student who has not been tested may enroll in college-level coursework may be determined by the institution. Exceptional circumstances include, but are not limited to:

(A) documented illness, injury or other bonafide emergency which prevents a student from testing;

(B) diagnosed and documented disability for which reasonable and appropriate accommodations could not be provided by the institution in a timely manner;

(C) deaf students who arrive on campus without having taken the Stanford Achievement Test prior to enrollment may be allowed to enter school but are required to take the Stanford at the next regularly scheduled offering; and

(D) after all reasonable institutional testing opportunities have passed and additional students, through no fault of their own, have not been tested.

(3) Alternative test instruments approved by the Board may be used by an institution to initially test students. The section(s) of an alternative test that a student passes will count towards meeting TASP requirements, and the sections failed or not attempted will subject a student to TASP requirements and the institution's developmental education plan.

(A) Each alternative test instrument shall be correlated with the TASP Test in that it must be of a diagnostic nature and designed to provide a comparison of the reading, mathematics and writing skills of the individual student with the skills necessary for a student to perform effectively in an undergraduate degree program.

(B) Alternative tests are to be used only for initial testing; the TASP Test must be used for all retakes. On completion of the developmental coursework or program, the student shall take that portion of the TASP Test for which developmental education was required.

(C) The alternative tests approved by the Board are:

(i) ASSET and COMPASS offered by ACT; and

(ii) Multiple Assessment Programs and Services (MAPS) and ACCUPLACER offered by The College Board

(D) The unit costs of alternative tests shall be borne by the student.

(4) A high school student who has passed the exit-level assessment required under Texas Education Code, §39.023 (TAAS) shall be encouraged to take a test for TASP purposes while enrolled in high school unless otherwise exempt.

(A) A high school student who enrolls in dual credit courses or is concurrently enrolled must take a test for TASP purposes prior to enrolling in college-level coursework.

(B) A high school student who fails to achieve the minimum passing standard set by the board may not be required to take developmental classes while in high school, and the student may not take collegiate level classes related to portions of the test that have not been passed. However, high schools and colleges should encourage students who do not meet the minimum standards to take courses while in high school to remedy any skill deficiencies. Nothing in this subsection precludes a college from providing developmental education courses to high school students at the request of a high school pursuant to the provisions of Texas Education Code, §130.090(a).

(5) Students not otherwise exempt from the provisions of this subchapter may not graduate from a Level-Two certificate program (43-59 semester credit hours or the equivalent), an associate degree program or baccalaureate degree program, or enroll in any upper-division course completion of which would give the student 60 or more college-level semester credit hours or the equivalent (the student may continue to enroll in lower-division or non-degree credit courses) until the student either:

(A) passes all sections of the TASP Test (or an alternative test on initial attempt only); or

(B) earns a grade of "B" or better in a freshman-level credit course in the skill area of the assessed deficit in accordance with §4.56(d) of this title.

(6) After successful completion of an appropriate developmental program, a student must retake appropriate sections of the TASP Test.

(7) A student shall not enroll in an institution which by law may not offer lower-division courses unless the student has passed a test for TASP purposes or otherwise fulfilled all TASP requirements.

(8) A student shall not enroll in upper-level programs at a health-related institution unless the student has passed a test for TASP purposes or otherwise fulfilled all TASP requirements.

(9) An upper-level institution or health-related institution that inadvertently admits a student who has not passed a test approved for TASP purposes must take appropriate steps to ensure that the student meets TASP requirements.

(10) Blind students shall take a test approved for TASP purposes with appropriate accommodations.

(11) Deaf students shall take the Stanford Achievement Test nationally normed on the hearing impaired population by Gallaudet University. Other than the requirement that the student take the Stanford Achievement Test, all provisions of these rules, including the exemptions and exceptions, apply to deaf students. Minimum passing standards on the Stanford Achievement Test are:

(A) Reading Comprehension - 652 scaled score, 29 raw score;

(B) Mathematics Total - 682 scaled score, 66 raw score;

(C) Language Total - 662 scaled score, 37 raw score; and

(D) Study Skills - 663 scaled score, 19 raw score.

(12) An institution of higher education offering collegiate-level credit to students via a Multi-Institution Teaching Center (MITC) or a university system center, or to in-state students by distance learning delivery systems must ensure that students meet all TASP requirements.

(b) Exemptions/Exceptions

(1) Any student with at least three college-level semester credit hours or the equivalent from an accredited institution accumulated prior to the fall of 1989 shall not be required to meet TASP requirements regardless of any election of academic fresh start (Texas Education Code, §51.931). Credit hours must be certified as college-level by the granting institution but need not apply toward a degree or certificate.

(2) A student who performs at or above a level set by the Board on the ACT, Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or exit-level Texas Assessment of Academic Skills (TAAS) shall be exempt from TASP requirements. This exemption shall be in effect for five years from the date the ACT or SAT was taken and for three years from the date the TAAS Test was taken. While a test may be retaken, ACT or SAT scores meeting or exceeding the standard set by the Board must be achieved on a single test administration. TAAS scores must meet or exceed exemption standards on the first attempt for each section. Standards for exemption from TASP requirements are:

(A) ACT: composite score of 23 with a minimum of 19 on both the English and the mathematics tests;

(B) SAT: a combined verbal and mathematics score of 1070 with a minimum of 500 on both the verbal and the mathematics tests; or

(C) TAAS: a minimum scale score of 1770 on the writing test, a Texas Learning Index (TLI) of 86 on the mathematics test and 89 on the reading test.

(3) An institution may exempt from TASP requirements a non-degree-seeking or non-certificate-seeking student who will be 55 years of age or older on the first class day of a term or semester.

(4) A student who enrolls on a temporary basis in an institution of higher education, and is not seeking a degree or Level-Two certificate, and is also enrolled in a private or independent institution of higher education or an out-of-state institution of higher education or has graduated from an institution of higher education, a private or independent institution, or an out-of-state institution of higher education is exempt from TASP requirements.

(5) TASP requirements do not apply to students enrolled in certificate programs of one year or less (Level-One certificates, 42 or fewer semester credit hours or the equivalent) at a community or technical college.

(6) A student who has been diagnosed as having dyslexia or a related disorder, as those terms are defined by Texas Education Code, §38.003, or a specific learning disability in mathematics by a qualified professional whose license or credentials are appropriate to diagnose the disorder or disability as determined by the Board, who takes a test for TASP purposes and completes the developmental program prescribed by the institution may be required to retake the TASP Test once but may not be referred to an additional developmental course or other developmental program or precluded from enrolling in an upper-division course or graduating because of the student's performance on the test.

(7) A student who is a citizen of a country other than the United States and is not seeking a degree is exempt from TASP requirements.

(8) A student who has graduated with a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution of higher education is exempt from TASP requirements.

(9) A student who transfers to an institution of higher education from a private or out-of-state institution may use transferred courses which are given common course numbers corresponding to those in §4.56 (d)(3) of this title (relating to Criteria for Meeting TASP Requirements) to satisfy TASP requirements. A student must have earned a course grade of "B" or higher in each of the three skill areas. If not, the student must be tested for the remaining skill area(s) and must comply with all other TASP requirements.

(10) A student who is serving on active duty as a member of the armed forces of the United States.

(11) A student who graduates from a public high school or an accredited private high school in any state with a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent and completed the recommended or advanced high school curriculum or an equivalent or similar curriculum at an accredited private high school or at a high school outside of Texas. This exemption is effective only for a student who enrolls in an institution of higher education on or before the second anniversary of the date the student graduated from high school.

§4.56.Criteria for Meeting TASP Requirements.

(a) A student who initially fails one or more sections of a test taken for TASP purposes may satisfy TASP requirements in one of two ways:

(1) Achieving a passing score on sections of the TASP Test for which developmental education was required; or

(2) Earning a grade of "B" or better in an appropriate course approved by the Board in §4.56 (d)(3) of this title (relating to Criteria for Meeting TASP Requirements).

(b) An institution shall clearly indicate on an official transcript how a student has met TASP requirements.

(c) Minimum Passing Standards

(1) Minimum passing scaled score standards for the TASP Test are: Reading - 230; Mathematics - 230; Writing - 220.

(2) Minimum passing scaled score standards for the approved alternative tests are:

(A) ASSET: Reading Skills - 41; Elementary Algebra - 38; Writing Skills (objective) - 40; and Written Essay - 6.

(B) COMPASS: Reading Skills - 81; Algebra - 39; Writing Skills (objective) - 59; and Written Essay - 6.

(C) MAPS: Reading Comprehension - 114; Elementary Algebra Skills - 613; Conventions of Written English - 310; and Written Essay - 6.

(D) ACCUPLACER: Reading Comprehension - 78; Elementary Algebra - 63; Sentence Skills - 80; and Written Essay - 6.

(3) The passing standard for the written essay portion of all alternative tests is a score of 6. However, an essay with a score of 5 will pass if the student meets the objective writing test standard. Institutions should require students to take lower-level subtests, especially in mathematics, in order to obtain a broader diagnostic picture of a student's skills (e.g., arithmetic skills, pre-algebra, elementary algebra).

(4) An institution may require higher performance standards.

(d) Meeting TASP Requirements by Making a Grade of "B" or Better.

(1) An institution may specify circumstances under which students may take a "B" or better course concurrently with a developmental education course as long as both are related to the area of skill deficiency. Students who complete, to the satisfaction of the institution, the appropriate developmental education and concurrently earn a grade of "B" or better in an appropriate approved course, do not have to retake the TASP Test. Institutions shall specify courses of action for students who earn a grade of "B" or better in an approved course but do not meet all institutional developmental education requirements.

(2) Except as provided in paragraph (1) of this subsection, a student must complete the prescribed developmental education program prior to enrolling in a "B" or better course.

(3) The following are the freshmen-level credit courses, identified by their Common Course Numbers, approved by the Board in accordance with Texas Education Code, §51.306(g):

(A) Writing

(i) ENGL 1301 (Composition I); or

(ii) ENGL 1302 (Composition II)

(B) Reading (Courses selected for reading at any institution must be reading intensive)

(i) HIST 1301, 1302 (U. S. History);

(ii) ENGL 2321, 2322, 2323 (British Literature);

(iii) ENGL 2331, 2332, 2333 (World Literature);

(iv) ENGL 2326, 2327, 2328 (American Literature);

(v) PSYCH 2301 (General Psychology); or

(vi) GOVT 2301,2302,2305,2306 (American Government)

(C) Mathematics

(i) MATH 1332 (College Mathematics);

(ii) MATH 1333 (College Mathematics);

(iii) MATH 1314 (College Algebra);

(iv) MATH 1316 (Plane Trigonometry); or

(v) at the discretion of the institution, a grade of "B" or better in a more advanced mathematics course for which any of the above are prerequisites.

(D) Institutions may choose from the authorized course list and are not required to offer all of the approved courses. However, an institution must offer at least one course from the list in each subject area for these purposes each term.

§4.57.Developmental Education and Advisement.

(a) A student whose performance is below the minimum passing standard set by the Board for a tested skill area on the TASP Test or approved alternative test must meet the requirements set forth in the institution's developmental education plan.

(b) Each institution shall make available those courses and programs on the same campus or center at which the student would otherwise attend classes. Where there are multiple centers or sites for classes, an institution may designate a principal site or sites where developmental education will be conducted.

(c) An institution may elect to provide developmental programs or courses on its campus by contracting with a second institution to deliver the instruction. Under such an arrangement, the host institution is responsible for the quality and effectiveness of developmental education.

(d) A student may not graduate from a community, technical, or public state college or enter upper-division work beyond 60 semester hours at a university until all TASP requirements are met.

(e) When students are concurrently enrolled in multiple institutions of higher education, the institution where the student first registers and pays full tuition charges (Texas Education Code, §54.062) takes precedence for the provision of developmental education in accordance with §4.57 (b) and (c) of this title (relating to Developmental Education and Advisement).

§4.58.Administration.

(a) Each institution shall develop procedures for administering approved alternative tests which must include reasonable and appropriate accommodations for students with disabilities and internal policies for dealing with testing irregularities and academic dishonesty.

(b) Once a student has passed any section of the TASP Test or an approved alternative test, his or her score shall remain permanently effective. Test sections passed while a student is in high school are valid for a period of five years.

(c) An institution of higher education serving as a testing site may not charge students for site costs.

(d) Policies relating to these rules must be followed as they are described and further extended in the TASP Policy Manual.

(e) TASP Test scores may be withheld and/or canceled for any student who is suspected of committing a testing irregularity during the TASP Test administration. A student whose TASP Test scores have been withheld shall receive prompt notification of the reasons why the scores have been withheld and shall be entitled to due process of law prior to any cancellation of scores. Institutions may be notified in the event the student is found to have committed a testing irregularity.

§4.59.Reporting and Funding.

(a) Reporting

(1) Each institution shall report annually to the Board data concerning the results of the students being tested and the effectiveness of the institution's developmental program and advising program.

(2) Each institution of higher education shall report to the Board in accordance with Texas Education Code, §51.403(e) the following information on student performance during the first year enrolled after graduation from high school: TASP Test scores, alternative test scores, developmental education courses required, and grade point average.

(b) Funding

(1) A general academic teaching institution (university) may not receive funding for developmental courses taken by a student in excess of 18 semester credit hours; a public community college district or technical college may not receive funding for developmental courses taken by a student in excess of 27 semester credit hours or the equivalent.

(2) All developmental hours funded by the state during the summer of 1996 and thereafter shall be counted toward each student's total number of developmental hours at a given institution.

(3) English as a Second Language (ESL) hours may be used for developmental education purposes when a student is placed in such courses as a result of failing the reading or writing portion of the TASP Test or an approved alternative test. However, when used for such purposes, ESL hours shall be counted toward the 18/27 hour cap.

(c) Audits

(1) Each institution is responsible for full compliance with Texas Education Code, §51.306 and the rules adopted by the Board.

(2) Failure to comply with the TASP statute and rules or any other act or omission that results in the accumulation of semester credit hours or the equivalent in violation of the TASP statute and rules shall be a basis for disallowing those credits by audit exceptions, resulting in an adjustment of the dollar amounts of institutional funds.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301041

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter D. DUAL CREDIT PARTNERSHIPS BETWEEN SECONDARY SCHOOLS AND TEXAS PUBLIC COLLEGES

19 TAC §§4.81 - 4.85

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§4.81 - 4.85, concerning general oversight of public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges (Dual Credit Partnerships between Secondary Schools and Texas Public Colleges). Specifically, these new sections replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . The new sections assemble in one chapter, renumber, and clarify current Board rules regarding the general oversight of all public higher education institutions. The new rules consolidate current Board rules governing dual (or concurrent course) credit for community and technical colleges and for universities. This consolidation should help eliminate confusion for secondary schools who engage in dual credit partnerships with public institutions. Other changes include new definitions for the terms "college" and "dual credit." The term "college" will now refer to community and technical colleges and to universities. The term "dual credit" will be used for both types of institutions instead of the historical use of the term "concurrent course credit" used by community and technical colleges. More emphasis is given to the requirement that colleges comply with applicable Board rules and procedures for offering courses at a distance and more emphasis is given to the requirement that a dual credit course offered at the high school campus is equivalent to the corresponding course offered at the college's main campus. Provisions that allowed for a "mixed" class (having high school credit only students and dual credit students) are more limited. In addition, a new provision would allow students in the high school graduating class of 2005 to enroll in dual credit courses based on the tenth grade version of the new TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills). This is a temporary measure until the college-readiness cut score on the eleventh grade TAKS is established in 2004.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new rules are proposed under the Texas Education Code, Section 61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; Section 61.002, which establishes the Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; Section 61.051, which provides the Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; Texas Education Code, Section 51.911, which requires institutions of higher education to allow absences for religious holy days; Texas Education Code, Section 61.0815, which requires institutions to report expert witnesses; Texas Education Code 61.051(g), and Texas Education Code, Sections 61.821-831, which authorizes the Board to adopt rules and establish policies and procedures for the development, adoption, implementation, and evaluation of core curricula, field of study curricula, and a transfer dispute resolution process; Texas Education Code, Section 51.307, which authorizes the Board to adopt rules to implement the provisions of Texas Education Code, Sections 51.306 - 51.308 and Texas Education Code, Section 51.403(e), regarding Testing and Development Education; Texas Education Code, Sections 29.182, 29.184, 61.027, 61.076(j), 130.001(b)(3) - (4), 130.008, 130.090, and 135.06(d), which provide the Board with the authority to regulate dual credit partnerships between public two-year associate degree-granting institutions and public universities with secondary schools; and Texas Education Code, Section 61.088, which authorizes the Board to establish rules for the organization and operation of the Texas State Science and Engineering Fair

The new rules affect Texas Education Code, §§61.002, 61.051, 51.911, 61.0815, 61.821-831, 51.307, 51.306 - 51.308, 51.403(e), 29.182, 29.184, 61.027, 61.076(j), 130.001(b)(3) - (4), 130.008, 130.090, 135.0(d), and 61.088.

§4.81.Purpose.

This subchapter provides rules and regulations for public two-year associate degree-granting institutions and for public universities to engage in dual credit partnerships with secondary schools. (See Chapter 9, Subchapter H of this title (relating to Partnerships Between Secondary Schools and Public Two-Year Associate Degree-Granting Institutions) for high school credit only partnerships, Tech-Prep partnerships, and remedial or developmental instruction for high school graduation partnerships.)

§4.82.Authority.

Texas Education Code, §§29.182, 29.184, 61.027, 61.076(j), 130.001(b)(3) - (4), 130.008, 130.090, and 135.06(d) provide the Board with the authority to regulate dual credit partnerships between public two-year associate degree-granting institution and public universities with secondary schools.

§4.83.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1) Board--The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(2) College--Public two-year associate degree-granting institutions and public universities.

(3) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education.

(4) Dual credit--a process by which a high school student enrolls in a college course and receives simultaneous academic credit for the course from both the college and the high school. While dual credit courses are often taught on the secondary school campus to high school students only, applicable sections of these rules, §4.84 (a) and §4.85 (a), (b), (g), (h), (i) of this title (relating to Dual Credit Partnerships), also apply when a high school student takes a course on the college campus and receives both high school and college credit. Dual credit is also referred to as concurrent course credit; the terms are equivalent. However, dual (or concurrent) enrollment refers to a circumstance in which a student is enrolled in more than one educational institution (including a high school and a college).

(5) Public two-year associate degree-granting institution--a community college, a technical college, or a state college.

§4.84.Institutional Agreements.

(a) Need for Institutional Agreements. For any dual credit partnership between a secondary school and a public college, an agreement must be approved by the governing boards or designated authorities (e.g., principal and chief academic officer) of both the public school district or private secondary school and the public college prior to the offering of such courses.

(b) Elements of Institutional Agreements. The dual credit partnership must address the following elements:

(1) Eligible Courses;

(2) Student Eligibility;

(3) Location of Class;

(4) Student Composition of Class;

(5) Faculty Selection, Supervision, and Evaluation;

(6) Course Curriculum, Instruction, and Grading;

(7) Academic Policies and Student Support Services;

(8) Transcripting of Credit; and

(9) Funding.

§4.85.Dual Credit Requirements.

(a) Eligible Courses.

(1) Courses offered for dual credit by public two-year associate degree granting institutions must be identified as college-level academic courses in the current edition of the Lower Division Academic Course Guide Manual adopted by the Board or as college-level workforce education courses in the current edition of the Workforce Education Course Manual adopted by the Board.

(2) Courses offered for dual credit by public universities must be in the approved undergraduate course inventory of the university.

(3) Public colleges may not offer remedial and developmental courses for dual credit.

(b) Student Eligibility.

(1) To be eligible for enrollment in a dual credit course for TASP-eligible programs (associate or baccalaureate degree or level two certificate), the high school student must present a passing score on the Texas Academic Skills Program (TASP) test or a Board-approved alternative assessment instrument in at least one area (mathematics, reading, writing) as deemed relevant by the college for the intended dual credit course in which the student shall enroll. Eligibility for students in the high school graduating class of 2005 to take dual credit courses during the 2003-2004 and 2004-2005 academic years may also be established by achieving at least the passing standard on the English/Language Arts and/or Mathematics sections (as applicable) of the tenth grade Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) test established by the State Board of Education.

(2) To be eligible for enrollment in a dual credit course for TASP-waived college certificate programs, the high school student must have passed all sections of the exit-level TAAS test. Eligibility for students in the high school graduating class of 2005 to take dual credit courses in TASP-waived certificate programs during the 2003-2004 and 2004-2005 academic years may be established by achieving at least the passing standard on the English/Language Arts and/or Mathematics sections (as applicable) of the tenth grade Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) test established by the State Board of Education. A student who has received an exemption from taking the TAKS or TAAS test may qualify to enroll in a dual credit course by presenting a passing score on the Texas Academic Skills Program (TASP) test or a Board-approved alternative assessment instrument in at least one area (mathematics, reading, writing) as deemed relevant by the college for the intended dual credit course in which the student shall enroll.

(3) Students who are enrolled in private or non-accredited secondary schools or who are home-schooled must satisfy paragraph (1) of this subsection.

(4) To be eligible for enrollment in a dual credit course offered by a public college, students must meet all the college's regular prerequisite requirements designated for that course (e.g., minimum score on a specified placement test, minimum grade in a specified previous course, etc.).

(5) To be eligible for enrollment in a dual credit course offered by a public college, students must have at least junior year high school standing. Exceptions to this requirement for students with demonstrated outstanding academic performance and capability (as evidenced by grade-point average, PSAT scores, or other assessment indicators) may be approved by the principal of the high school and the chief academic officer of the college.

(6) High school students shall not be enrolled in more than two dual credit courses per semester. Exceptions to this requirement for students with demonstrated outstanding academic performance and capability (as evidenced by grade-point average, ACT or SAT scores, or other assessment indicators) may be approved by the principal of the high school and the chief academic officer of the college.

(c) Location of Class. Dual credit courses may be taught on the college campus or on the high school campus. For dual credit courses taught exclusively to high school students on the high school campus and for dual credit courses taught electronically, public colleges shall comply with applicable rules and procedures for offering courses at a distance in §§4.101-4.108 of this title (relating to Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction). In addition, dual credit courses taught electronically shall comply with the Board's adopted Principles of Good Practice for Courses Offered Electronically.

(d) Composition of Class. Dual credit courses may be composed of dual credit students only or of dual and college credit students. Exceptions for a mixed class, which would also include high school credit-only students, may be allowed only under one of the following conditions:

(1) If the course involved is required for completion under the State Board of Education Recommended or Distinguished Achievement High School Program graduation requirements, and the high school involved is otherwise unable to offer such a course;

(2) If the high school credit-only students are advanced placement students.

(e) Faculty Selection, Supervision, and Evaluation.

(1) The college shall select instructors of dual credit courses. These instructors must be regularly employed faculty members of the college or must meet the same standards (including minimal requirements of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) and approval procedures used by the college to select faculty responsible for teaching the same courses at the main campus of the college.

(2) The college shall supervise and evaluate instructors of dual credit courses using the same or comparable procedures used for faculty at the main campus of the college.

(f) Course Curriculum, Instruction, and Grading. The college shall ensure that a dual credit course and the corresponding course offered at the main campus of the college are equivalent with respect to the curriculum, materials, instruction, and method/rigor of student evaluation. These standards must be upheld regardless of the student composition of the class.

(g) Academic Policies and Student Support Services.

(1) Regular academic policies applicable to courses taught at the college's main campus must also apply to dual credit courses. These policies could include the appeal process for disputed grades, drop policy, the communication of grading policy to students, when the syllabus must be distributed, etc.

(2) Students in dual credit courses must be eligible to utilize the same or comparable support services that are afforded college students on the main campus. The college is responsible for ensuring timely and efficient access to such services (e.g., academic advising and counseling), to learning materials (e.g., library resources), and to other benefits for which the student may be eligible.

(h) Transcripting of Credit. For dual credit courses, high school as well as college credit should be transcripted immediately upon a student's completion of the performance required in the course.

(i) Funding.

(1) The state funding for dual credit courses will be available to both public school districts and colleges based on the current agreement between the Commissioner of Education and the Commissioner of Higher Education.

(2) The college may claim funding for all students getting college credit in dual credit courses.

(3) Only a public community college may waive tuition and fees for a Texas public high school student enrolled in a course for which the student may receive dual course credit. Technical colleges, state colleges, and public universities must charge tuition to dual credit students following the same guidelines used for regular students.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301042

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter E. APPROVAL OF DISTANCE EDUCATION AND OFF-CAMPUS INSTRUCTION FOR PUBLIC COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

19 TAC §§4.101 - 4.108

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§4.101 - 4.108, concerning general oversight of public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges (Approval of Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction for Public Colleges and Universities). Specifically, these new sections replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . The new sections assemble in one chapter, renumber, and clarify current Board rules regarding the general oversight of all public higher education institutions.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new rules are proposed under the Texas Education Code, Section 61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; Section 61.002, which establishes the Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; Section 61.051, which provides the Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; Texas Education Code, Section 51.911, which requires institutions of higher education to allow absences for religious holy days; Texas Education Code, Section 61.0815, which requires institutions to report expert witnesses; Texas Education Code 61.051(g), and Texas Education Code, Sections 61.821-831, which authorizes the Board to adopt rules and establish policies and procedures for the development, adoption, implementation, and evaluation of core curricula, field of study curricula, and a transfer dispute resolution process; Texas Education Code, Section 51.307, which authorizes the Board to adopt rules to implement the provisions of Texas Education Code, Sections 51.306 - 51.308 and Texas Education Code, Section 51.403(e), regarding Testing and Development Education; Texas Education Code, Sections 29.182, 29.184, 61.027, 61.076(j), 130.001(b)(3) - (4), 130.008, 130.090, and 135.06(d), which provide the Board with the authority to regulate dual credit partnerships between public two-year associate degree-granting institutions and public universities with secondary schools; and Texas Education Code, Section 61.088, which authorizes the Board to establish rules for the organization and operation of the Texas State Science and Engineering Fair

The new rules affect Texas Education Code, §§61.002, 61.051, 51.911, 61.0815, 61.821-831, 51.307, 51.306 - 51.308, 51.403(e), 29.182, 29.184, 61.027, 61.076(j), 130.001(b)(3) - (4), 130.008, 130.090, 135.0(d), and 61.088.

§4.101.Purpose.

This subchapter provides guidance to all public institutions of higher education in Texas regarding the delivery of distance education and off-campus courses and programs. The Board's goals are to ensure the quality of Texas-based distance education and off-campus courses and programs and to provide residents with access to distance education and off-campus courses and programs that meet their needs. The rules are designed to assure the adequacy of the technical and managerial infrastructures necessary to support those courses and programs.

§4.102.Authority.

The authority for this subchapter is Texas Education Code, §61.051(j).

§4.103.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(1) Board--The Texas Higher Education Board.

(2) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education.

(3) Distance education--Instruction in which the majority of the instruction occurs when the student and instructor are not in the same physical setting. A class is considered a distance education class if students receive more than one-half of the instruction at a distance. Distance education can be delivered synchronously or asynchronously to any single or multiple location(s):

(A) Other than the "main campus" of a senior institution (or "on campus"), where the primary office of the chief executive officer of the campus is located;

(B) Outside the boundaries of the taxing authority of a public community/junior college district; or

(C) Via instructional telecommunications to any other distant location, including electronic delivery of all types.

(4) Institutional Plan--A long-term plan describing how an institution seeking authority to offer distance education and off-campus instruction will ensure quality and resources in providing such instruction, based on Board-adopted Guidelines for Institutional Plans.

(5) Instructional Telecommunications--Electronic telecommunication technology systems employed to deliver distance education instruction.

(6) Off-Campus--Instruction in which one-half or more of the instruction is delivered with the instructor and student in the same physical location and which meets one of the following criteria: for senior institutions, Lamar state colleges, or public technical colleges, off-campus locations are locations away from the main campus; for public community/junior colleges, off-campus locations are locations outside the taxing district.

(7) Program--Any certificate or degree program offered by a public institution of higher education.

(8) Regional Council--A cooperative arrangement among representatives of all public and independent higher education institutions within a Uniform State Service Region.

(9) Senior institution--Public universities, health science centers and health-related institutions. All provisions of this subchapter relating to universities or to "senior institutions" also apply to health science centers and health-related institutions.

(10) Service area--The territory served by a public community/junior college district as defined in Texas Education Code, Subchapter J (relating to Junior College District Service Area).

(11) Special professional--First professional degree programs, such as law, pharmacy, optometry, dentistry, medicine and veterinary medicine.

§4.104.General Provisions.

(a) This subchapter governs the following types of instruction:

(1) Academic credit instruction and formula-funded workforce continuing education provided by a public community/junior college outside of the boundaries of its taxing district;

(2) Academic credit instruction provided by a public technical college, Lamar state college, university, or health-related institution at a site other than the main campus where the primary office of the chief executive officer of the campus is located; or

(3) Academic credit instruction provided at out-of-state or foreign locations by public institutions of higher education;

(b) This subchapter does not apply to the following types of instruction:

(1) Non-credit adult and continuing education courses provided at a distance by universities and health science centers;

(2) Continuing education, except formula-funded workforce continuing education, provided by public community/junior colleges, Lamar state colleges, and public technical colleges; or

(3) Correspondence and extension classes that are not submitted for formula funding.

(c) The Board retains final authority for the offering of all classes, courses, programs, and degrees, and may take whatever action it deems appropriate to comply with the law or to maintain a high-quality and cost-effective system of distance education and off-campus instruction for the state.

(1) Each course and program offered under the provisions of this subchapter must be within the role and mission of the institution responsible for offering the instruction. Each course must be on the offering institution's inventory of approved courses, and each program must be on the offering institution's inventory of approved programs.

(2) Prior approval may be required before an institution may offer courses and programs under the provisions of this subchapter in certain subject area disciplines or under other conditions specified by the Board.

(3) No doctoral or special professional degree programs may be offered via distance education or off-campus instruction without specific prior approval by the Board. The Commissioner may approve for delivery to other off-campus sites or via other delivery modes doctoral or special professional degree programs that have previously been approved by the Board for electronic or off-campus delivery.

(d) An institution offering a full degree or certificate program under the provisions of this subchapter shall comply with relevant procedures and rules of the appropriate regulatory or accrediting agency, or professional certification board.

(e) No graduate degree program may be offered via distance education or off-campus instruction without prior notification by the institution to the appropriate regulatory or accrediting agency or professional certification board.

(f) A program is considered to be offered via distance education or off-campus instruction if a student may complete a substantial majority of the program without taking any courses on the main campus of the public university, public technical college, or health-related institution providing the instruction, or without physically attending classes within the boundaries of the taxing district of the public community/junior college district providing the instruction.

(g) Notice of each course offered via off-campus instruction under the provisions of this subchapter shall be submitted to the Board. Notice of each program offered via distance education, including Internet delivery, or off-campus instruction shall be submitted to the Board. Notice shall be provided in accordance with provisions and schedules determined by the Commissioner.

(h) State-funded distance education and off-campus instruction shall be reported in accordance with the Board's uniform reporting system and the reporting provisions of this subchapter.

(i) Institutions may be required to provide special reports on distance education and off-campus courses and programs for inclusion in institutional and statewide reports.

(j) Institutions shall not submit for formula funding semester credit hours generated through distance education by any student who is not a Texas resident or is not physically located in Texas. In limited cases, exceptions can be approved by the Commissioner.

(k) Instruction delivered out-of-state through distance education to non-Texas residents should be treated as extension courses; institutions shall charge appropriate fees to cover the cost of instruction.

§4.105.Standards and Criteria for Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction.

The following standards and criteria shall apply to distance education and off-campus instruction.

(1) Instruction shall meet the quality standards applicable to on-campus instruction.

(2) Courses which offer either semester credit hours or Continuing Education Units shall do so in accordance with the standards of the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

(3) Students shall satisfy the same requirements for admission to the institution, to the program of which the course is a part, and to the class/section itself, as are required of on-campus students. Students in programs to be offered collaboratively must meet the admission standards of their home institutions.

(4) Faculty shall be selected and evaluated by the same standards, review, and approval procedures used by the institution to select and evaluate faculty responsible for on-campus instruction.

(5) Institutions shall provide training and support to enhance the added skills required of faculty teaching classes via instructional telecommunications.

(6) The instructor of record shall bear responsibility for the delivery of instruction and for evaluation student progress.

(7) Providers of graduate-level instruction shall be approved in the same manner as graduate faculty for on-campus instruction.

(8) All instruction shall be administered by the same entity administering the corresponding on-campus instruction. The supervision, monitoring, and evaluation processes for instructors shall be comparable to those for on-campus instruction.

(9) Students shall be provided academic support services - including academic advising, counseling, library and other learning resources, and financial aid - appropriate for distance education and off-campus learners.

(10) Facilities (other than homes as distance education reception sites) shall be comparable in quality to those for on-campus instruction.

(11) Institutions shall adhere to additional criteria outlined in the Guidelines for Institutional Plans for Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction.

§4.106.Institutional Plan for Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction.

(a) Prior to offering any distance education or off-campus courses or programs for the first time, a public community/junior or Lamar state college, technical college, or senior institution shall submit an Institutional Plan for Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction to the Board for approval. The Commissioner shall provide guidelines for development of such plans.

(b) Institutional academic and administrative policies shall reflect a commitment to maintain the quality of distance education and off-campus programs in accordance with the provisions of this subchapter. An Institutional Plan shall conform to Board guidelines and criteria of the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in effect at the time of the Plan's approval. These criteria shall include provisions relating to:

(1) Institutional Issues;

(2) Educational Programs;

(3) Faculty;

(4) Student Support Services; and

(5) Distance Education Facilities and Support.

(c) Prior to Board consideration of an Institutional Plan, the Commissioner may approve an offering by an institution of a limited number of distance education courses for experimental purposes.

(d) Each institution with an approved Institutional Plan for Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction shall submit an updated Plan on a schedule to be determined by the Commissioner. Thereafter, Institutional Plans shall be reviewed periodically on a schedule to be determined by the Commissioner.

§4.107.Distance Education and Off-Campus Course and Program General Provisions.

(a) The Commissioner shall develop procedures governing the review and approval of distance education and off-campus courses and programs.

(b) Regional Councils in each of the ten Uniform State Service Regions are hereby authorized to make recommendations to the Commissioner and to resolve disputes regarding plans for lower-division courses and programs proposed by public institutions.

(1) The presidents, or designated representatives, of each public and independent institution of higher education with its main campus in each Region comprise the Council membership.

(2) The Commissioner shall develop procedures to govern Regional Council responsibilities.

§4.108.Out-of-State and Foreign Course and Program General Provisions.

(a) State-funded out-of-state and foreign off-campus courses offered by Texas public institutions of higher education, or by an approved consortium composed of Texas public institutions, shall be approved by the Commissioner in order for the semester credit hours or contact hours generated in those courses to be used for formula reimbursement and shall adhere to procedures and standards developed by the Commissioner for out-of-state and foreign offerings.

(b) Non-state-funded credit courses shall not be included in submissions to Regional Councils. Non-credit adult and continuing education courses offered at a distance by universities and health science centers are exempt from this subchapter.

(c) Institutions may not submit for formula funding distance education courses delivered outside the state without specific prior approval by the Commissioner.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301043

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter F. TEXAS STATE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING FAIR

19 TAC §§4.131 - 4.135

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§4.131 - 4.135, concerning general oversight of public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges (Texas State Science and Engineering Fair). Specifically, these new sections replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . The new sections assemble in one chapter, renumber, and clarify current Board rules regarding the general oversight of all public higher education institutions.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new rules are proposed under the Texas Education Code, Section 61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; Section 61.002, which establishes the Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; Section 61.051, which provides the Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; Texas Education Code, Section 51.911, which requires institutions of higher education to allow absences for religious holy days; Texas Education Code, Section 61.0815, which requires institutions to report expert witnesses; Texas Education Code 61.051(g), and Texas Education Code, Sections 61.821-831, which authorizes the Board to adopt rules and establish policies and procedures for the development, adoption, implementation, and evaluation of core curricula, field of study curricula, and a transfer dispute resolution process; Texas Education Code, Section 51.307, which authorizes the Board to adopt rules to implement the provisions of Texas Education Code, Sections 51.306 - 51.308 and Texas Education Code, Section 51.403(e), regarding Testing and Development Education; Texas Education Code, Sections 29.182, 29.184, 61.027, 61.076(j), 130.001(b)(3) - (4), 130.008, 130.090, and 135.06(d), which provide the Board with the authority to regulate dual credit partnerships between public two-year associate degree-granting institutions and public universities with secondary schools; and Texas Education Code, Section 61.088, which authorizes the Board to establish rules for the organization and operation of the Texas State Science and Engineering Fair

The new rules affect Texas Education Code, §§61.002, 61.051, 51.911, 61.0815, 61.821-831, 51.307, 51.306 - 51.308, 51.403(e), 29.182, 29.184, 61.027, 61.076(j), 130.001(b)(3) - (4), 130.008, 130.090, 135.0(d), and 61.088.

§4.131.Purpose, Scope, and Authority.

(a) Purpose. The purpose of the Texas State Science and Engineering Fair (TSSEF) is to promote an appreciation for and interest in science, mathematics, and engineering among precollege students; to assist schools and school districts in fulfilling their mission in science, mathematics, and engineering education; and to promote workforce development in the fields of science, mathematics, and engineering by providing students with an opportunity to interact with higher education and corporate institutions.

(b) Scope. The TSSEF is the pathway for 9th through 12th grade students to advance from regional-level science fairs to state-level opportunities. The TSSEF provides access to the International Science and Engineering Fair for Texas precollege students.

(c) Authority. The Texas Education Code, Chapter 61, §61.088 authorizes the Board to establish rules for the organization and operation of the State Fair.

§4.132.Eligible Students.

The TSSEF may accept 1st through 3rd place winners in each of the 15 divisions recognized by the International Science & Engineering Fair (Behavioral and Social Sciences, Biochemistry, Botany, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth and Space Science, Engineering, Environmental Science, Gerontology, Mathematics, Medicine and Health, Microbiology, Physics, Zoology, and Team Projects in any science disciplines) from the Regional Fairs in the state.

§4.133.Awards.

The TSSEF may award prizes to 1st through 5th place winners in each of the 15 divisions recognized by the ISEF. In addition, a number of special awards, including industry and society awards, may be given.

§4.134.Organizations and Operations.

The Board may contract with public or private entities to conduct the State Fair. The Board shall coordinate the TSSEF with regional science and engineering fairs held in the state.

§4.135.Dissemination of Information and Rules.

The TSSEF shall operate under the rules of the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) and its publication International Rules for Precollege Science Research: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301044

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Chapter 5. PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT

Subchapter A. GENERAL PROVISIONS

19 TAC §§5.1 - 5.12

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.1 - 5.12 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (General Provisions). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370 - 5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.1.Degree Terminology.

§5.2.Grants for Community Service Programs.

§5.3.Uniform Grade-Point Calculation for Admission to Graduate and Professional Schools.

§5.4.Time Limit on Implementing New Programs or Administrative Changes Approved by the Board or the Commissioner.

§5.5.Student Absences on Religious Holy Days.

§5.6.Common Calendar.

§5.7.Minimum Length of Courses.

§5.8.Core Curricula.

§5.9.Uniform Admission Policy.

§5.10.Student Transcripts.

§5.11.Common Admission Application.

§5.12.Expert Witnesses.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301052

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter B. CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL OF NEW BACCALAUREATE DEGREE PROGRAMS

19 TAC §§5.21 - 5.29

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.21 - 5.29 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Criteria for Approval of New Baccalaureate Degree Programs). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370 - 5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.21.Role and Scope.

§5.22.Unnecessary Duplication.

§5.23.Faculty Resources.

§5.24.Library Resources.

§5.25.Physical Facilities.

§5.26.Administration of the Program.

§5.27.Demonstrated Need.

§5.28.Complement Existing Programs.

§5.29.Suitable Financing.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301053

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter C. CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL OF NEW MASTER'S DEGREE PROGRAMS

19 TAC §§5.41 - 5.49

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.41-5.49 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Criteria for Approval of New Master’s Degree Programs). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370-5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.41.Role and Scope.

§5.42.Demonstrated Competence at the Baccalaureate Level.

§5.43.Faculty Resources.

§5.44.Critical Mass of Qualified Students.

§5.45.Unnecessary Strictures.

§5.46.Specific Steps for Implementation.

§5.47.Administration of the Program.

§5.48.Existing Programs.

§5.49.Library Resources.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301074

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter D. CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL OF NEW DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS

19 TAC §§5.61 - 5.74

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.61 - 5.74 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Criteria for Approval of New Doctoral Degree Programs). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370 - 5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.61.Design of the Program.

§5.62.Freedom of Inquiry and Expression.

§5.63.Strong Programs at the Undergraduate and Master's Levels.

§5.64.Need for the Program.

§5.65.Faculty Resources.

§5.66.Teaching Loads of Faculty.

§5.67.Critical Mass of Superior Students.

§5.68.On-Campus Residency Expectations.

§5.69.Adequate Financial Assistance for Doctoral Students.

§5.70.Carefully Planned Program of Study.

§5.71.Physical Facilities.

§5.72.Library Resources.

§5.73.Program Evaluation Standards.

§5.74.Specific Steps for Implementation.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301054

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter E. PRESENTATION OF REQUEST FOR NEW ACADEMIC DEGREE PROGRAMS

19 TAC §§5.91 - 5.101

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.91 - 5.101 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Presentation of Request for New Academic Degree Programs). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370 - 5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.91.General Instructions.

§5.92.Description of Proposed Program.

§5.93.Projected Enrollment.

§5.94.Faculty.

§5.95.Library.

§5.96.Facilities and Equipment.

§5.97.Administration of Proposed Program.

§5.98.Accreditation.

§5.99.Supporting Fields.

§5.100.Costs of Proposed Program.

§5.101.Approvals by the Commissioner.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301055

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter F. PRESENTATION OF REQUEST FOR ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES

19 TAC §§5.111 - 5.113

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.111 - 5.113 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Presentation of Request for Administrative Changes). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370 - 5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.111.General Instructions.

§5.112.Information Required.

§5.113.Board Procedures for Approval of New Schools or Colleges or New Institutions of Higher Education.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301056

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter G. APPROVAL OF LESS-THAN-BACCALAUREATE PROGRAMS IN SENIOR INSTITUTIONS

19 TAC §§5.131 - 5.134

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.131 - 5.134 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Approval of Less-than-Baccalaureate Programs in Senior Institutions). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370 - 5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.131.General Policy.

§5.132.Circumstances for Consideration of Proposals from Senior Institutions.

§5.133.Criteria for Approval of Programs in Senior Institutions.

§5.134.Procedures for Evaluation of Program Proposals.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301057

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter H. APPROVAL OF DISTANCE EDUCATION AND OFF-CAMPUS INSTRUCTION FOR PUBLIC COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

19 TAC §§5.151 - 5.157

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.151 - 5.157 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Approval of Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction for Public Colleges and Universities). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370 - 5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.151.Purpose.

§5.152.Definitions.

§5.153.General Provisions.

§5.154.Standards and Criteria for Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction.

§5.155.Institutional Plan for Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction.

§5.156.Distance Education and Off-Campus Course and Program general Provisions.

§5.157.Out-of-State and Foreign Course and Program General Provisions.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301058

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter I. TEXAS STATE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING FAIR

19 TAC §§5.170 - 5.174

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.170 - 5.174 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Texas State Science and Engineering Fair). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370 - 5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.170.Purpose, Scope, and Authority.

§5.171.Eligible Students.

§5.172.Awards.

§5.173.Organizations and Operations.

§5.174.Dissemination of Information and Rules.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301059

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter K. PRIVATE AND OUT-OF-STATE PUBLIC DEGREE-GRANTING INSTITUTIONS OPERATING IN TEXAS

19 TAC §§5.211 - 5.225

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.211 - 5.225 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Private and Out-of-State Public Degree Granting Institutions Operating in Texas). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370 - 5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.211.Definitions.

§5.212.Exemptions.

§5.213.Administrative Procedures Related to Certification of Nonexempt Institutions.

§5.214.Standards For Nonexempt Institutions.

§5.215.Certificate of Authority to Grant Degrees and Offer Courses at Nonexempt Institutions.

§5.216.Certificate of Registration for Agents of Nonexempt Institutions.

§5.217.Off-Campus Operations, Changes of Level at Exempt Institutions, and Out-of-State Public Institutions.

§5.218.Denial Of Certificates To Institutions And Agents.

§5.219.Revocation Of Certificates To Nonexempt Institutions And Agents.

§5.220.Prohibitions Applicable To Nonexempt Institutions.

§5.221.Administrative Procedures Related to the Assessment of Penalties Against Nonexempt Institutions.

§5.222.Administrative Penalties For Nonexempt Institutions.

§5.223.Injunctions Against Nonexempt Institutions.

§5.224.Civil Penalty Against Nonexempt Institutions.

§5.225.Judicial Procedures For Nonexempt Institutions.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301060

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter L. OPERATION OF OFF-CAMPUS EDUCATIONAL UNITS OF SENIOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

19 TAC §§5.241 - 5.246

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.241 - 5.246 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Operation of Off-Campus Educational Units of Senior Colleges and Universities). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.30 - 5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.241.Purpose.

§5.242.Definitions.

§5.243.Supply/Demand Pathway.

§5.244.Other Off-Campus Educational Subdivisions of Colleges and Universities.

§5.245.Multi-Institution Teaching Center.

§5.246.University System Centers.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301061

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed possible date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter M. DUAL CREDIT PARTNERSHIPS BETWEEN SECONDARY SCHOOLS AND TEXAS PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES

19 TAC §§5.260 - 5.263

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.260 - 5.263 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Dual Credit Partnerships Between Secondary Schools and Texas Public Universities). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370 - 5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.260.Purpose.

§5.261.Institutional Agreements.

§5.262.Dual Credit Requirements.

§5.263.Data Collection and Analysis.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301062

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter N. GUIDELINES ON APPROVAL OF COURSE INVENTORIES FOR PUBLIC SENIOR INSTITUTIONS

19 TAC §§5.281 - 5.285

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.281 - 5.285 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Guidelines on Approval of Course Inventories for Public Senior Institutions). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370 - 5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.281.Procedure for Obtaining Course Approval.

§5.282.Course Approvals Affecting Graduate Interdisciplinary Degrees.

§5.283.Course Approvals for Interdisciplinary Baccalaureate Degree.

§5.284.Uses and Course Approval for Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences Degree.

§5.285.Utilization of Credit In Pre-Collegiate Courses to Satisfy Degree Requirements.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301063

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter O. OFFERING OF SMALL CLASSES BY PUBLIC SENIOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

19 TAC §5.301, §5.302

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.301-5.302 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Offering of Small Classes by Public Senior Colleges and Universities). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370-5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.301.General Provisions.

§5.302.Definitions.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301064

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter P. TESTING AND DEVELOPMENTAL EDUCATION

19 TAC §§5.311 - 5.318

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.311-5.318 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Testing and Developmental Education). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370-5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.311.Purpose.

§5.312.Definitions.

§5.313.Institutional Developmental Education Plans.

§5.314.Eligibility and Exemptions/Exceptions.

§5.315.Criteria for Meeting TASP Requirements.

§5.316.Developmental Education and Advisement.

§5.317.Administration.

§5.318.Reporting and Funding.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301065

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter Q. INSTITUTIONAL MISSION STATEMENTS

19 TAC §§5.350 - 5.353

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.350-5.353 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Institutional Mission Statements). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370-5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.350.General Instructions.

§5.351.Definitions.

§5.352.Criteria and Procedures.

§5.353.Timeline for Review of Mission Statements.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301070

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter R. MEDICAL AND HEALTH PROFESSIONS RECRUITMENT FUND

19 TAC §§5.370 - 5.376

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.370-5.376 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Medical and Health Professions Recruitment Fund). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370-5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.370.Purpose.

§5.371.Definitions.

§5.372.Administration.

§5.373.Delegation of Powers and Duties.

§5.374.Funding.

§5.375.Eligibility.

§5.376.Program Selection.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301071

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter S. CORE CURRICULUM TRANSFER AND FIELD OF STUDY CURRICULA

19 TAC §§5.390 - 5.393, 5.400 - 5.405

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.390-5.393 and 5.400-5.405 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Core Curriculum Transfer and Field of Study Curricula). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370-5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.390.General Provisions.

§5.391.Requirements and Limitations.

§5.392.Penalty for Noncompliance with Transfer Rules.

§5.393.Resolution of Transfer Disputes for Lower-Division Courses.

§5.400.Definitions.

§5.401.General Provisions.

§5.402.Core Curriculum.

§5.403.Core Curricula Larger than 42 Semester Credit Hours.

§5.404.Criteria for Evaluation of Core Curricula.

§5.405.Field of Study Curricula.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301072

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter T. TOBACCO LAWSUIT SETTLEMENT FUNDS

19 TAC §5.420, §5.421

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§5.420-5.421 concerning program development in public universities, health-related institutions, and two-year colleges and private and out-of-state public degree granting institutions (Tobacco Lawsuit Settlement Funds). Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover a wide variety of topics. To provide better organization and to increase clarity, these rules are being reorganized into several new chapters being proposed contemporaneously in this issue of the Texas Register, except for §§5.370-5.376 regarding the Medical and Health Professional Recruitment Fund. These sections are being eliminated because the program was never implemented or funded.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not significantly alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institution, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§5.420.Nursing, Allied Health and Other Health-Related Education Grant Program.

§5.421.Minority Health Research and Education Grant Program.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301073

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Chapter 5. RULES APPLYING TO PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES AND/OR HEALTH-RELATED INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN TEXAS

Subchapter A. GENERAL PROVISIONS

19 TAC §§5.1 - 5.7

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§5.1 - 5.7, concerning academic policies affecting public universities and/or health-related institutions (General Provisions). Specifically, these new sections replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . The new sections assemble in one chapter, renumber, and clarify current rules affecting public universities and health-related institutions.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new sections are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; Texas Education Code, §51.807, which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules relating the Uniform Admissions; Texas Education Code, §51.762(a), which provides the Board with the authority to implement the Common Admission Application, Texas Education Code, §61.074, which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules relating to grade-point calculation, Texas Education Code, §61.051(d) and (e), which directs the Board to develop the role and mission of each institution and periodically review the role and mission statements, Tables of Programs, and all certificate and degree programs, Texas Education Code, §61.051(j), which requires the approval of the Board for operation of off-campus educational units, and Texas Education Code, §61.055, which requires a Board finding that a new department, school, or degree or certificate program is adequately financed.

The amendments affect Texas Education Code, §§61.002, 61.051, 51.807, 51.762(a), 61.074, 61.051(d), (j) and (e), and 61.055.

§5.1.Purpose.

This subchapter establishes rules on a variety of topics that apply exclusively to public universities and/or health-related institutions.

§5.2.Authority.

Unless otherwise noted in a section, the authority for these provisions is provided by Texas Education Code §61.051 which describes the Board's role in coordinating higher education in Texas.

§5.3.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(1) Board--The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(2) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education.

(3) Health-related institution--a medical or dental unit as defined by the Texas Education Code, §61.003(5).

(4) Public university--a general academic teaching institution as defined by the Texas Education Code, §61.003(3).

(5) Degree program--any grouping of subject matter courses which, when satisfactorily completed by a student, shall entitle the student to a degree from an institution of higher education.

(6) Support area--a grouping of courses for which an institution does not have degree authority. The number of courses in a support area is limited to fewer than would provide a degree program in that specialty at that level. Support areas may include a single discipline, a subcategory of an approved degree program, or a component of a multi-disciplinary specialty.

(A) A variety of terms for subject matter course groupings, such as concentration, track, option, emphasis, specialization, and major are commonly used by institutions. The Coordinating Board does not have formal definitions for these terms, which vary in usage among institutions.

(B) Despite various terminologies, the Board considers subject matter course groupings to be degree programs if such groupings are substantially the same as those for a degree in a similar discipline at the institution or in the same discipline specialty (as identified by Texas CIP classification) at similar institutions.

(7) Degree title--name of the degree and discipline under which one or more degree programs may be offered. A degree title usually consists of the degree designation (e.g., Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts) and the discipline specialty (e.g., History, Psychology).

§5.4.Time Limit on Implementing New Programs or Administrative Changes Approved by the Board or the Commissioner.

(a) Staff recommendations on new programs or administrative changes requested by institutions are based on information available at the time recommendations are made; beyond a reasonable period of time, those recommendations may become less valid and Board actions, therefore, less appropriate and/or responsive to the needs of the state and its regions.

(b) Unless otherwise stipulated at the time of approval, if new degree programs approved by the Board or Commissioner are not established within two years of approval, that approval is no longer valid.

(c) Unless otherwise stipulated at the time of approval, if administrative changes approved by the Board or Commissioner are not implemented within two years of approval, that approval is no longer valid.

(d) Provisions of this section apply to general academic institutions and health-related institutions.

§5.5.Uniform Admission Policy.

(a) Each public university shall admit first-time freshmen students for each semester in accordance with Texas Education Code, §§51.801 - 51.809.

(b) All applicants from Texas schools accredited by a generally recognized accrediting agency and who graduate in the top 10 percent of their high school class shall be admitted to a general academic institution if the student meets the following conditions:

(1) The student graduated from high school within the two years prior to the academic year for which the student is applying, and;

(2) The student submitted a complete application as defined by the institution before the expiration of the institution's established deadline.

(c) All applicants from high schools operated by the United States Department of Defense and who graduate in the top 10 percent of their high school class shall be admitted to a general academic institution if the student meets the following conditions:

(1) The student graduated from high school within the two years prior to the academic year for which the student is applying;

(2) The student is a Texas resident as defined in Texas Education Code, §54.052 or is entitled to pay tuition and fees at the rate provided for Texas residents for the term or semester to which the student is admitted; and

(3) The student submitted a complete application as defined by the institution before the expiration of the institution's established deadline.

(d) High school rank for students seeking automatic admission to a general academic teaching institution on the basis of their class rank is determined and reported as follows:

(1) Class rank shall be based on the end of the 11th grade, middle of the 12th grade, or at high school graduation, whichever is most recent at the application deadline.

(2) The top 10 percent of a high school class shall not contain more than 10 percent of the total class size.

(3) The student's rank shall be reported by the applicant's high school or school district as a specific number out of a specific number total class size.

(4) Class rank shall be determined by the school or school district from which the student graduated or is expected to graduate.

(e) A general academic teaching institution may limit the number of students admitted under this section if the number of applicants eligible and applying for admission to the institution under this section exceeds by more than 10 percent the average number of first-time freshmen admitted the previous two academic years. If an institution chooses to limit the number of students admitted under this section, it must ensure that:

(1) At least 97 percent of first-time freshmen admitted are in the top 10 percent of their high school class and;

(2) Clear guidelines are established for the selection of students based on one or a specified combination of the following methods:

(A) A lottery in which all students qualified for automatic admission have an equal chance for selection;

(B) Students are selected on a first-come, first-admitted basis following receipt of a complete application; or

(C) At least four or more criteria identified in Texas Education Code, §51.805 are used to select students admitted.

(f) Each general academic teaching institution shall annually report to the Board the composition of the entering class of first-time freshmen students admitted under this section. The report shall include a demographic breakdown of the class including race, ethnicity, and economic status. Each general academic teaching institution shall provide this report to the Board annually on or before a date set by the Board.

§5.6.Common Admission Application.

(a) A common application form for freshman and undergraduate transfer applications is hereby adopted by the Board pursuant to Texas Education Code, §51.762. The form is adopted in both a printed format and in an electronic format. The Board, with the assistance of an advisory committee composed of representatives of general academic teaching institutions, shall review the form and recommend any changes for subsequent academic years.

(b) A general academic teaching institution as defined in Texas Education Code, §61.003, must accept freshman applications using the common admission application form beginning with applications for admission for the 1999 - 2000 academic year. Institutions must accept freshman and undergraduate transfer applications using the common electronic admission application form beginning with applicants for admission for the 1999 - 2000 academic year.

(c) Each institution shall collect information regarding gender, race/ethnicity, and date of birth as part of the application process and report this information to the Board.

(d) The Board shall ensure that copies of the freshman common admission application form and information for its use are available for distribution to appropriate personnel at each public high school. The Board shall work with institutions and high schools to ensure that all high schools have access to either the printed or electronic common application form. A general academic teaching institution may charge a reasonable fee for the filing of a common application form.

(e) The Board shall enter into a memorandum of understanding with a public institution of higher education to design and implement an electronic common application system for use by the public in applying for admission to Texas general academic teaching institutions and for distribution of the electronic application system to the university(s) designated by the applicant. After the system is implemented, operating costs of the system shall be paid for by participating institutions. Each institution shall pay a portion of the cost based on the percentage of their enrollment compared to the total statewide public higher education enrollment based on the previous year's certified enrollment data. The Board shall monitor the cost of the system and notify the institutions on an annual basis of their share of the cost. Billings for the services for the coming year shall be calculated and sent to the institutions in December and payments must be received by September 1.

§5.7.Uniform Grade-Point Calculation for Admission to Graduate and Professional Schools.

Procedures for calculating the grade-point average for students seeking admission to a graduate or post-baccalaureate professional school of an institution of higher education shall be as follows:

(1) Only official transcripts from accredited institutions of higher education shall be accepted by the graduate and professional schools of an institution of higher education for evaluation and grade-point calculation.

(2) All academic work undertaken and grades or symbols assigned at each institution shall be reflected on the student's official transcript(s). No student's grade may be expunged from his or her record.

(3) All grades assigned for academic course work shall be used in calculating the grade-point average, except that an institution may base the calculation on the last 60 semester credit hours (or equivalent) of undergraduate work and any previous work in a graduate or professional school.

(4) A four-point scale shall be used in computing the grade point average (e.g.: A, 4 points per semester hour; B, 3.0; C, 2.0; D, 1.0; F, 0.0).

(5) A grade or symbol indicating failure (i.e.: F, WF, NC, or in a pass/fail system, FL equals F) shall count as hours undertaken, but no grade points shall be earned.

(6) Excluded from the grade-point average shall be any credit by examination (CR); Quit (Q); Withdrew (W); Withdrew Passing (WP); Incomplete (I or X); and a pass grade within a pass/fail system.

(7) The grade-point average shall be computed by multiplying each grade point (see paragraphs (4) and (5) of this section) by the semester or quarter credit hours earned per course and totaling the products. The semester or quarter hours of courses undertaken shall then be totaled. The total of the products shall be divided by the total semester or quarter hours. The result is to be calculated to the hundredth place, giving the official cumulative grade-point average.

(8) Academic work at foreign colleges, universities, or preparatory schools shall be excluded from the calculation. In such cases, the grade-point average and credit shall be evaluated and computed as determined by the graduate or professional school to which the student is applying.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301045

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter B. ROLE AND MISSION, TABLES OF PROGRAMS, COURSE INVENTORIES

19 TAC §§5.21 - 5.26

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§5.21 - 5.26, concerning academic policies affecting public universities and/or health-related institutions (Role and Mission, Tables of Programs, Course Inventories). Specifically, these new sections replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . The new sections assemble in one chapter, renumber, and clarify current rules affecting public universities and health-related institutions.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new sections are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; Texas Education Code, §51.807, which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules relating the Uniform Admissions; Texas Education Code, §51.762(a), which provides the Board with the authority to implement the Common Admission Application, Texas Education Code, §61.074, which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules relating to grade-point calculation, Texas Education Code, §61.051(d) and (e), which directs the Board to develop the role and mission of each institution and periodically review the role and mission statements, Tables of Programs, and all certificate and degree programs, Texas Education Code, §61.051(j), which requires the approval of the Board for operation of off-campus educational units, and Texas Education Code, §61.055, which requires a Board finding that a new department, school, or degree or certificate program is adequately financed.

The new rules affect Texas Education Code, §§61.002, 61.051, 51.807, 51.762(a), 61.074, 61.051(d), (e), and (j), and 61.055.

§5.21.Purpose.

The purpose of this subchapter is to implement rules regarding the development of the role and mission for each public institution of higher education in Texas and for periodic review of the role and mission statements, the table of programs, and all degree and certificate programs offered by a public institution of higher education.

§5.22.Authority.

The authority for this subchapter is found in Texas Education Code, §61.002(a) and (b) and Texas Education Code, §61.051(d) and (e).

§5.23.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1) Authority or Planning Authority--permission from the State of Texas to plan or offer degree programs in a given disciplinary area at a given level of instruction. The Table of Programs, defined in paragraph (9) of this section, prescribes the academic areas and levels that are approved by the Board as being appropriate for an institution's existing role and mission.

(2) Board--The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(3) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education.

(4) Mission Statement--A narrative description of the general mission of each institution prepared by the institution and approved by its Board of Regents and the Board. The statement should address the fundamental purpose of the institution with respect to its teaching, research, and public service responsibilities. The institution's special concerns for quality and access, liberal arts, admissions, career-oriented programming, extension and articulation with community colleges and public schools, traditional and nontraditional education, and similar issues also may be described. The mission statement must be consistent with the approved Table of Programs and any statutory mission description.

(5) Organized classes--Classes whose primary mode of instruction is lecture, laboratory, or seminar.

(6) Program Inventory--The official list of all approved degree and certificate programs approved for a public university or health-related institution.

(7) Role and Mission or Role and Scope--Equivalent phrases used to refer to the overall purpose of an institution, including its role within the overall system of Texas higher education. The Board-approved role and mission documents for a university or health-related institution are its Mission Statement and Table of Programs.

(8) Small classes--Undergraduate level classes with less than 10 registrations, and graduate level classes with less than five registrations.

(9) Table of Programs--A table that describes the range of degree and certificate programs currently authorized for an institution using the Texas-CIP classification system. For each category and degree program level, authorization shall be designated by a code. The codes shall indicate whether or not degree programs in a particular subject matter category have been approved for the institution and whether or not they fall within its approved mission.

(10) Texas CIP Classification System--The Texas adaptation of the Classification of Instructional Programs taxonomy developed by the National Center for Education Statistics and used nationally to classify instructional programs and report educational data.

(11) Statutory mission description--A statement of an institution's mission or purpose that is established directly in statute.

§5.24.Criteria and Approval of Mission Statements and Tables of Programs.

(a) Criteria. In reviewing request for additions to the program authority of an institution, the Board shall consider:

(1) the demonstrated need for a future program in terms of present and future vocational needs of the state and the nation,

(2) whether the proposed addition would complement and strengthen existing programs at the institution,

(3) whether a future program would unnecessarily duplicate other programs within the region, state, or nation, and

(4) whether a critical mass of students and faculty is likely to be available to allow the program to be offered at a high level of quality and to become self-sufficient on the basis of state funding.

(b) Review and Approval Process.

(1) As provided by Texas Education Code, §61.051(e), at least every four years the Board shall review the role and mission statements, the table of programs and all degree and certificate programs offered by each public senior university. The review shall include the participation of the institution's board of regents.

(2) The review process shall be determined by the Commissioner, but shall include a review of low-producing degree programs at the institution.

(3) The Board shall approve or re-approve the mission statement and table of programs of each institution following the review described in paragraph (1) of this subsection. Each institution shall be given an opportunity to be heard by the Board about these matters.

(4) After approval or re-approval, requests for new programs and administrative changes shall be considered in the context of the approved role and mission for the institution.

(5) An institution may request an amendment to its authorized role and mission at any time circumstances warrant.

(6) The Commissioner may approve minor changes to the mission statement or table of programs of an institution during the period between the four-year reviews.

§5.25.Course Approvals at Public Universities.

(a) Under the provisions of Texas Education Code, §61.052(a) and (b), institutions shall report its course offerings and changes to its course offerings following procedures established by the Commissioner.

(b) Institutions may not offer courses at levels or in programs not approved by the Board,

(c) The Commissioner may order the deletion or consolidation of any courses so submitted after giving due notice with reasons for that action and after providing a hearing if one is requested by the governing board of the institution.

§5.26.Offering of Small Classes by Public Universities.

In accordance with Texas Education Code, §51.403(d), public universities may offer organized small classes which:

(1) have been approved by the governing board of the university;

(2) is a required course for graduation (the course is not offered each semester or term, and, if canceled, may affect the date of graduation of those enrolled);

(3) is a required course for majors in this field and should be completed this semester (or term) to keep proper sequence in courses;

(4) is a course in a newly established degree program, concentration, or support area;

(5) is part of an interdepartmental (cross-listed) course taught as a single class by the same faculty at the same station, provided that the combined enrollments do not constitute a small class;

(6) is a first-time offering of the course;

(7) is class size-limited by accreditation or state licensing standards;

(8) is class size-limited by availability of laboratory or clinical facilities; or

(9) is voluntarily offered by a faculty member in excess of the institutional teaching load requirement and for which the faculty member receives no additional compensation.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301046

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter C. APPROVAL OF NEW ACADEMIC PROGRAMS AND ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES AT PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES AND/OR HEALTH-RELATED INSTITUTIONS

19 TAC §§5.41 - 5.50

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§5.41 - 5.50, concerning academic policies affecting public universities and/or health-related institutions (Approval of New Academic Programs and Administrative Changes at Public Universities and/or Health-Related Institutions). Specifically, these new sections replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register. The new sections assemble in one chapter, renumber, and clarify current rules affecting public universities and health-related institutions. The proposed sections in this chapter primarily represent a consolidation of existing rules concerning the approval of new academic programs and administrative changes. Section 5.43 includes some new definitions. Section 5.45 consolidates into one section previously separate approval criteria for bachelor's and master's programs. Section 5.46 includes slightly more detailed criteria than previous rules to help institutions better prepare high quality doctoral programs. The new §5.48 describes the process by which certificate programs will be approved at universities and health-related institutions and clarifies which kinds of certificates do not need board approval or require notification only. Section 5.49, the Board's policy on certification of adequacy of financing, has been moved here from elsewhere in rules to be more accessible to institutions planning new programs. Section 5.50 has been modified to allow the Commissioner to approve minor changes to an institution's table of programs. This section also contains a change that would allow the Commissioner to approve programs with new five-year costs of less than $2 million. The previous limit was $1 million.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new sections are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; Texas Education Code, §51.807, which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules relating the Uniform Admissions; Texas Education Code, §51.762(a), which provides the Board with the authority to implement the Common Admission Application, Texas Education Code, §61.074, which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules relating to grade-point calculation, Texas Education Code, §61.051(d) and (e), which directs the Board to develop the role and mission of each institution and periodically review the role and mission statements, Tables of Programs, and all certificate and degree programs, Texas Education Code, §61.051(j), which requires the approval of the Board for operation of off-campus educational units, and Texas Education Code, §61.055, which requires a Board finding that a new department, school, or degree or certificate program is adequately financed.

The new rules affect Texas Education Code, §§61.002, 61.051, 51.807, 51.762(a), 61.074, 61.051(d), (e), and (j), and 61.055.

§5.41.Purpose.

The purpose of this subchapter is to describe the criteria and approval processes for degree and certificate programs and for administrative changes involving academic units.

§5.42.Authority.

Texas Education Code, §61.051(e) provides that no new department, school, degree program, or certificate program may be added at any public institution of higher education except with specific prior approval of the Board. Texas Education Code, §61.055 requires a written certification of adequate financing be made before the Board approves any new department, school, or degree or certificate program.

§5.43.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1) Academic administrative unit--A department, college, school, or other unit at a university or health-related institution, which has administrative authority over degree or certificate programs.

(2) Administrative change request--A request that involves the creation of or changes to an academic administrative unit at a university or health-related institution.

(3) Board--The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(4) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education.

(5) Certificate Program--Any grouping of subject-matter courses which, when satisfactorily completed by a student, shall entitle him to a certificate or documentary evidence, other than a degree, of completion of a post-secondary course of study at a university or health-related institution.

(6) Degree program--Any grouping of subject matter courses which, when satisfactorily completed by a student, shall entitle him or her to a degree from a public university or health-related institution.

(7) Graduate-level certificate program--A certificate program at a university or health-related institution that consists primarily of graduate-level courses.

(8) Lower-division degree or certificate program--A degree or certificate program offered at a university or health-related institution that consists of lower-division courses and is equivalent to a program offered at a community or technical college.

(9) Upper-division certificate program--A certificate program at a university or health-related institution that consists primarily of upper-division undergraduate courses.

§5.44.Presentation of Requests and Steps for Implementation.

(a) Requests for new degree programs, certificate programs, and administrative units shall be made following procedures specified by the Commissioner.

(b) Requests for new degree and certificate programs and for administrative changes require:

(1) Approval by the Board of planning authority, if needed prior to Board consideration;

(2) Approval by the governing board of the institution concerned;

(3) Certification of adequate funding by the institution; and

(4) Final approval by the Board, or by the Commissioner if permitted under §5.50 of this title (relating to Approvals by the Commissioner).

§5.45.Criteria for New Baccalaureate and Master's Degree Programs.

New baccalaureate and master's degree programs must meet all of the following criteria:

(1) Role and mission. The program must be within the existing role and mission of the institution as indicated by its table of programs or the Board must make the determination that the program is appropriate for the mission of the institution.

(2) Unnecessary duplication. The program must not unnecessarily duplicate a program at another institution serving the same regional population. The offering of basic liberal arts and sciences courses and degree programs in public senior institutions is not considered unnecessary duplication.

(3) Faculty resources. Faculty resources must be adequate to provide high program quality. With few exceptions, the master's degree should be the minimum educational attainment for faculty teaching in baccalaureate programs. In most disciplines, the doctorate should be the minimum educational attainment for faculty teaching in graduate programs. Faculty should meet the qualitative and quantitative criteria of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and the appropriate accrediting body, if a professional program. There should be sufficient numbers of qualified faculty dedicated to a new program. This number shall vary depending on the discipline, the nature of the program, and the anticipated number of students.

(4) Library and IT resources. Library and information technology resources must be adequate for the program and meet the standards of the appropriate accrediting agencies.

(5) Facilities, equipment, and clinical placements. Facilities and clinical placements must be adequate to initiate the program. Adequate classroom and laboratory space, equipment, and office space should be available for the proposed program. Arrangements for any essential clinical placements should be made before program approval.

(6) Curriculum design. The curriculum should be up-to-date and consistent with current educational theory. Professional programs and those resulting in licensure must be designed to meet the standards of appropriate regulatory bodies.

(7) Program administration. Administration of the program should not be unduly cumbersome or costly. Ideally, the program should fit into the current administrative structure of the institution. If administrative changes are required, they should be consonant with the organization of the institution as a whole and should necessitate a minimum of additional expense in terms of personnel and office space.

(8) Workforce need. There should be a demonstrated or well-documented need for the program in terms of meeting present and future workforce needs of the state and nation. There should be a ready job market for graduates of the program, or alternatively, it should produce students for master's or doctoral-level programs in fields in which there is a demonstrated need for professionals.

(9) Critical mass of students. In addition to a demonstrated workforce need, a critical mass of qualified students must be available to enter the program and there must be evidence that the program is likely to have sufficient enrollments to support the program into the future. The size of an institution, the characteristics of its existing student body, and enrollments in existing programs should be taken into account when determining whether a critical mass of students shall be available for a proposed new program.

(10) Adequate financing. There should be adequate financing available to initiate the program without reducing funds for existing programs or weakening them in any way. After the start-up period, the program must be able to generate sufficient semester credit hours under funding formulas to pay faculty salaries, departmental operating costs, and instructional administration costs for the program. Three years should be sufficient time for the program to meet these costs through semester credit hour production. If the state funding formulas are not meeting these costs for the program after three years, the institution and the Board should review the program with a view to discontinuance.

§5.46.Criteria for New Doctoral Programs.

New doctoral programs must meet all of the following criteria:

(1) Design of the Program. A doctoral-level program is designed to prepare a graduate student for a lifetime of teaching creative activity, research, or other professional activity. The administration and the faculty of institutions initiating doctoral-level programs should exhibit an understanding and commitment to the long tradition of excellence associated with the awarding of the traditional doctorate degree and of the various doctoral-level professional degrees.

(2) Freedom of Inquiry and Expression. Doctoral programs must be characterized by complete freedom of inquiry and expression.

(3) Strong Programs at the Undergraduate and Master's Levels. Doctoral programs, in most instances, should be undergirded by strong programs in a wide number of disciplines at the undergraduate and master's levels. Quality programs in other related and supporting doctoral areas must also be available.

(4) Need for the Program. There should be a demonstrated and well-documented need for doctorally prepared professionals in the discipline of the proposed program both in Texas and in the nation. It is the responsibility of the institution requesting a doctoral program to demonstrate that such a need exists, preferably through an analysis of national data showing the number of PhD's being produced annually in the area and comparing that to the numbers of professional job openings for PhD's in the discipline in question as indicated by sources such as the main professional journal(s) of the discipline.

(5) Faculty Resources. There must be a strong core of doctoral faculty, at least four or five, holding the doctor of philosophy degree or its equivalent from a variety of graduate schools of recognized reputation. Professors and associate professors must be mature persons who have achieved national or regional professional recognition. All core faculty must be currently engaged in productive research, and preferably have published the results of such research in the main professional journals of their discipline. They should come from a variety of academic backgrounds and have complementary areas of specialization within their field. Some should have experience directing doctoral dissertations. Collectively, the core of doctoral faculty should guarantee a high quality doctoral program with the potential to attain national prominence. The core faculty members should already be in the employ of the institution. Proposed recruitment of such faculty shall not meet this criterion. No authorized doctoral program shall be initiated until qualified faculty are active members of the department through which the program is offered.

(6) Teaching Loads of Faculty. Teaching loads of faculty in the doctoral program should not exceed two or three courses per term, and it must be recognized that some of these shall be advanced courses and seminars with low enrollments. Adequate funds should be available for attendance and participation in professional meetings and for travel and research necessary for continuing professional development.

(7) Critical Mass of Superior Students. Admission standards and enrollment expectations must guarantee a critical mass of superior students. The program must not result in such a high ratio of doctoral students to faculty as to make individual guidance prohibitive.

(8) On-Campus Residency Expectations.

(A) Institutions which offer doctoral degrees must provide through each doctoral program:

(i) significant, sustained, and regular interaction between faculty and students and among students themselves;

(ii) opportunities to access and engage in depth a wide variety of educational resources related to the degree program and associated fields;

(iii) opportunities for significant exchange of knowledge with the academic community;

(iv) opportunities to broaden educational and cultural perspectives; and

(v) opportunities to mentor and evaluate students in depth.

(B) Institutions are traditionally expected to meet these provisions through substantial on-campus residency requirements. Proposals to meet them in other, non-traditional ways (e.g., to enable distant delivery of a doctoral program) must provide persuasive and thorough documentation as to how each provision would be met and evaluated for the particular program and its students. Delivery of doctoral programs through distance education and/or off-campus instruction requires prior approval of the Board as specified in §4.104(c)(3) of this title (relating to Approval of Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction for Public Colleges and Universities).

(9) Adequate Financial Assistance for Doctoral Students. There should be adequate financial assistance for doctoral students so as to assure that most of them can be engaged in full-time study. Initially, funds for financial assistance to the doctoral students usually must come from institutional sources. As the program develops and achieves distinction, it increasingly shall attract support from government, industry, foundations, and other sources.

(10) Carefully Planned Program of Study. There should be a carefully planned and systematic program of study and a degree plan which is clear, comprehensive, and generally uniform but which permits sufficient flexibility to meet the legitimate professional interests and special needs of doctoral-level degree candidates. There should be a logical sequence of stages by which degree requirements shall be fulfilled. The plan should require both specialization and breadth of education, with rules for the distribution of study to achieve both, including interdisciplinary programs if indicated. The plan should include a research dissertation or equivalent requirements to be judged by the doctoral faculty on the basis of quality rather than length.

(11) Physical Facilities. There should be an adequate physical plant for the program. An adequate plant would include reasonably located office space for the faculty, teaching assistants, and administrative and technical support staff; seminar rooms; laboratories, computer and electronic resources; and other appropriate facilities.

(12) Library Resources. There should be an adequate library for the proposed program. Library resources should be strong not only in the doctoral program field but also in related and supporting fields.

(13) Program Evaluation Standards. Proposed programs should meet the standards of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and the accrediting standards and doctoral program criteria of appropriate professional groups and organizations, such as the Council of Graduate Schools in the United States, the Modern Language Association, the American Historical Association, the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology or other bodies relevant to the particular discipline. Out-of-state consultants may be used by the institution or the Board to assist in evaluating the quality of a proposed doctoral level program.

(14) First Doctoral Program. When an institution has not previously offered doctoral level work, notification to the executive secretary of the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, is required at least one year in advance of program implementation.

§5.47.Criteria for Administrative Change Requests.

(a) The administrative overhead of universities and health-related institutions should be kept low to insure that most of the funds appropriated for higher education go toward the costs of instruction.

(b) The administrative costs of new academic units, particularly colleges and schools, should not be so high as to detract from the quality of the programs the administrative unit contains.

§5.48.Criteria for Certificate Programs at Universities and Health-Related Institutions.

(a) Universities and health-related institutions are encouraged to develop upper-division and graduate certificate programs of less than degree length to meet the needs of students and the workforce. These rules are intended to provide a streamlined process for approval of those programs.

(b) Certificate programs for which no academic credit is granted are exempt from the provisions of this section.

(c) Certificate programs for which academic credit is granted at universities and health-related institutions must meet the following criteria:

(1) They must meet identified workforce needs or provide the student with skills and/or knowledge that shall be useful for their lives or careers.

(2) They must be consistent with the standards of the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

(3) They must meet the standards of all relevant state agencies or licensing bodies which have oversight over the certificate program or graduate.

(4) Adequate financing must be available to cover all new costs to the institution five years after the implementation of the program.

(d) The following certificate programs do not require Board approval:

(1) certificate programs for which no collegiate academic credit is given,

(2) certificate programs in areas and at levels authorized by the table of programs of the institution with curricula of the following length:

(A) at the undergraduate level--of 20 semester credit hours or less,

(B) at the graduate and professional level--of 14 semester credit hours or less.

(e) The following certificate programs require only Board notification and are automatically approved, subject to review:

(1) upper-level undergraduate certificates of 21-36 hours in disciplinary areas where the institution already offers an undergraduate degree program.

(2) graduate-level and professional certificates of 15-29 hours in disciplinary areas where the institution already offers a graduate program at the same level as the certificate.

(f) Lower-division certificate programs.

(1) One and two-year, post-secondary workforce education programs should be delivered primarily by community, state, and technical colleges. These institutions are uniquely suited by virtue of their specialized mission, local governance, and student support services to provide such opportunities in an efficient and economical manner. For that reason, new lower-division certification programs shall not generally be approved at public universities and health-related institutions.

(2) Universities and health-related institutions should not develop certificate programs at the upper or graduate level that are equivalent to lower-division certificate programs offered at community, state, and technical colleges.

§5.49.Certification of Adequacy of Financing for New Academic Programs and Administrative Changes.

(a) Under Texas Education Code, §61.055, each request submitted to the Board for a new department, school, degree or certificate program or administrative change shall be accompanied by a statement regarding the adequacy of funding from the chief executive officer of the requesting institution.

(b) When submitting documentation of costs and sources of funds, sources of funds shall be identified on forms provided by the Division of Universities and Health-Related Institutions as:

(1) Specific legislative appropriations, where such appropriations can be clearly identified as being appropriated to start a new program for which funds from other sources are not available;

(2) Funds allocated by the Board;

(3) Re-allocated funds (funds appropriated by the Legislature for an existing academic program but which are now declared by the institution to be available for the new degree program).

(4) Other funds provided by the Legislature;

(5) Anticipated formula funding to be generated by anticipated new enrollments in the program; and/or

(6) Funds from other sources (e.g., gifts, grants, etc.). The specific source of such funds shall be identified, the reasons for their availability shall be stated, and the length of time such funds shall be available shall be indicated.

(b) The request for a new department, school, degree or certificate program, or administrative change shall also include a statement by the chief executive officer of the requesting institution certifying that the requested program or change shall not reduce the effectiveness or quality of existing programs, departments or schools.

§5.50.Approvals by the Commissioner.

(a) The Commissioner may approve proposals from the public universities and health-related institutions for new baccalaureate or master's degree programs and academic administrative change requests, and, in very limited circumstances, new doctoral programs, on behalf of the Board in accordance with the procedures and criteria specified in this section.

(b) To be approved by the Commissioner, a proposal for a new degree program must include certification in writing from the Board of Regents of a proposing institution, in a form prescribed by the Commissioner, that the following criteria have been met:

(1) The proposed degree program is within the Table of Programs previously approved by the Board for the requesting institution.

(2) The curriculum, faculty, resources, support services, and other components of a proposed degree program are comparable to those of high quality programs in the same or similar disciplines offered by other institutions.

(3) Clinical or in-service placements, if applicable, have been identified in sufficient number and breadth to support the proposed program.

(4) The program is designed to be consistent with the standards of the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and with the standards of other applicable accrediting agencies; and is in compliance with appropriate licensing authority requirements.

(5) The institution has provided credible evidence of long-term student interest and job-market needs for graduates; or, if proposed by a university, the program is appropriate for the development of a well-rounded array of basic baccalaureate degree programs at the institution where the principal faculty and other resources are already in place to support other approved programs and/or the general core curriculum requirements for all undergraduate students.

(6) The program would not be unnecessarily duplicative of existing programs at other institutions.

(7) Implementation and operation of the program would not be dependent on future Special Item funding.

(8) New costs to the institution over the first five years after implementation of the program would not exceed $2,000,000.

(c) In addition to the requirements listed in subsections (a) and (b) of this section, a new doctoral program may only be approved by the Commissioner if:

(1) the institution already offers a doctoral program or programs in a closely related disciplinary area,

(2) those existing doctoral programs are productive and offered at a high level of quality,

(3) the core faculty for the proposed program are already active and productive faculty in an existing doctoral program at the institution,

(4) no other university or health-related institution objects to the program during the 30-day comment period during which the request is posted on the web, and

(5) there is a very strong link between the program and workforce needs or the economic development of the state.

(d) A proposal for a new degree program or administrative change must include a statement from the institution's chief executive officer certifying adequate financing and explaining the sources of funding to support the first five years of operation of the program or administrative change.

(e) If a proposal meets the criteria specified in this section, the Commissioner may either approve it or forward it to the Board for consideration at an appropriate quarterly meeting.

(f) If a proposal does not meet the criteria specified in this section, the Commissioner may deny approval or forward it to the Board for consideration at an appropriate quarterly meeting. Institutions may appeal the Commissioner's decision to deny approval to the Board.

(g) If a proposed program is the subject of an unresolved grievance or dispute between institutions, the Commissioner must forward it to the Board for consideration at an appropriate quarterly meeting.

(h) At the beginning of each month, the Commissioner shall make available to the public universities, health-related institutions, community/technical colleges, and Independent Colleges of Texas, Inc. a list of all pending proposals for new degree programs and administrative changes. If an institution wishes to provide the Commissioner information supporting a concern it has about the approval of a pending proposal for a new degree program at another institution, it must do so within one month of the initial listing of the proposal, and it must also forward the information to the proposing institution.

(i) Each quarter, the Commissioner shall send a list of his approvals and disapprovals under this section to Board members. A list of the approvals and disapprovals shall also be attached to the minutes of the next quarterly Board meeting.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301047

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter D. OPERATION OF OFF-CAMPUS EDUCATIONAL UNITS OF PUBLIC SENIOR COLLEGES, UNIVERSITIES AND HEALTH-RELATED INSTITUTIONS

19 TAC §§5.71 - 5.74, 5.76, 5.78

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§5.71 - 5.74, 5.76, 5.78, concerning academic policies affecting public universities and/or health-related institutions (Operation of Off-Campus Educational Units of Public Senior Colleges, Universities and Health-Related Institutions. Specifically, these new sections replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . The new sections assemble in one chapter, renumber, and clarify current rules affecting public universities and health-related institutions. Over time, rules have been developed with definitions and procedures for different types of off-campus educational units. These differences make unnecessary and confusing distinctions between types of off-campus educational units. A consolidation of off-campus education unit rules is proposed to clarify Board requirements and is the result of a complete review, rewriting, and restructuring of current Board rules affecting these units. The proposed new rules retain and make more explicit the special nature of the supply/demand pathway concept; combine rules dealing with specific types of off-campus units into a single listing for all types; remove from the rules and place in Board policies procedural statements on the application process and timeline for establishment of off-campus educational units; and require approval of the Board for classification of certain types of off-campus educational units and for specific designation of whether a unit is on the supply/demand pathway model.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new sections are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; Texas Education Code, §51.807, which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules relating the Uniform Admissions; Texas Education Code, §51.762(a), which provides the Board with the authority to implement the Common Admission Application, Texas Education Code, §61.074, which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules relating to grade-point calculation, Texas Education Code, §61.051(d) and (e), which directs the Board to develop the role and mission of each institution and periodically review the role and mission statements, Tables of Programs, and all certificate and degree programs, Texas Education Code, §61.051(j), which requires the approval of the Board for operation of off-campus educational units, and Texas Education Code, §61.055, which requires a Board finding that a new department, school, or degree or certificate program is adequately financed.

Texas Education Code, §§61.002, 61.051, 51.807, 51.762(a), 61.074, 61.051(d), (e), and (j), and 61.055.

§5.71.Purpose.

The provisions of this subchapter define off-campus educational units, establish criteria and procedures applicable to the classification, authorization, operation, and reclassification of these units and establish the supply/demand pathway as a developmental approach to providing access which allows for the gradual increase of resources as demand grows. The provisions of this subchapter are applicable to all units of public senior colleges, universities or health-related institutions which offer instruction for credit but are geographically separate from their institutions' main campuses.

§5.72.Authority.

The authority for this subchapter is Texas Education Code, §61.051(j).

§5.73.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(1) Board--The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(2) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education.

(3) FICE--identification number assigned to each institution by the Federal Interagency Committee on Education for reporting and other purposes.

(4) FTSE--the full-time student equivalent is determined by dividing the number of semester credit hours (SCH) generated at each level by a full-time standard for the level. For example: undergraduate SCH are divided by 15 (fall or spring semester) or 30 (annual); master's or first-professional SCH are divided by 12 (fall or spring semester) or 24 (annual); and doctoral SCH are divided by 9 (fall or spring semester) or 18 (annual).

(5) Higher education teaching site--A teaching location at which one or several degree programs are offered on a regular basis. Teaching site does not refer to locations where program(s) are offered to cohorts only.

(6) Multi-Institution Teaching Center (MITC)--An education center administered under a formal agreement between two or more public higher education institutions. It may also involve one or more private institutions.

(7) Off-campus educational unit--a subdivision under the management and control of an existing public university, university system, health-related institution or a combination of these units, hereinafter referred to as the parent institution(s) in a geographic setting separate from the parent institution(s).

(8) Parent institution--The general academic institution or health-related institution that offers its courses, programs or training at an off-campus educational unit. Credit hours are reported by the parent institution and degrees are awarded in the name of the parent institution.

(9) Pathway Education Center--An off-campus educational unit that is on the Supply/Demand Pathway.

(10) Regional Academic Health Center--A special purpose campus of parent health-related institution(s) that may be used to provide undergraduate clinical education, graduate education, including residency training programs, or other levels of medical education in specifically identified counties.

(11) Supply/Demand Pathway--The Supply/Demand Pathway is a developmental approach to providing access which allows for the gradual increase of resources as demand grows, operating under the principle of avoiding over-commitment as well as under-commitment of state resources.

(12) Texas CIP Classification System--The Texas adaptation of the Classification of Instructional Programs taxonomy developed by the National Center for Education Statistics and used nationally to classify instructional programs and report educational data.

(13) University System Center--A higher education center administered by a university system or individual institution in a system.

§5.74.Off-Campus Educational Units.

(a) An off-campus educational unit exists for a specific purpose which is directly related to the teaching of courses for academic credit from the parent institution or for health professions' medical training. An off-campus unit is not a separate general academic institution and therefore is not independent as regards academic, administrative, and fiscal matters, but has varying degrees of dependence upon the parent institution in such matters.

(b) Types of Off-Campus Educational Units

(1) Higher education teaching site--An educational site that promotes access in an area not served by other public universities. It does not entail a permanent commitment for continued service. It may not own facilities, nor is it eligible for state support to acquire or build facilities. Teaching sites do not require Board approval.

(2) Higher education center--An educational location where multiple degree programs are offered, but with minimal administration and locally provided facilities. Includes MITCs, system centers, and single-institution centers. Higher education centers must be established by the legislature or approved by the Board.

(A) Libraries shall be models of the effective use of technology in libraries and depend heavily on the TexShare electronic resource sharing efforts.

(B) A higher education center shall be headed by a dean or executive director as determined by the parent institution(s) or system. The number of local administrators and faculty shall be less than that at a free standing general academic institution of comparable size. Additional administrative and academic program support shall be provided by both the parent institution and the system.

(C) A higher education center shall meet the Board's technology standards.

(D) A higher education center shall take full advantage of technological advances that promise to improve quality of learning, access to programs, and efficient use of existing resources. Libraries shall be models of the effective use of technology in libraries and depend heavily on the TexShare electronic resource sharing efforts.

(E) Programs offered by the university system center's own faculty should have average enrollments of at least 75 students.

(F) Center name. The name to be used for a higher education center must be approved by the Board, and may not be changed without prior Board approval.

(G) Discontinuance. Recognition of a higher education center may be withdrawn by the Board.

(3) Branch or special-purpose campus--A major, secondary location of an institution offering multiple programs, usually with its own administrative structure and usually headed by a Dean. Regional Academic Health Centers are considered special-purpose campuses. They must be established by the Legislature.

§5.76.General Principles for Off-Campus Educational Units.

(a) The purpose of off-campus educational units of all sizes is to meet the education needs of the people of Texas with a level of service that is appropriate for the area and cost effective to offer. Institutions should not overcommit resources to a geographic area before a sufficient and sustained level of demand is achieved.

(b) The Commissioner shall establish policies concerning how a location receives designation as a specific type of off-campus educational unit and how to expand the types of educational activities.

(c) Off-campus educational units are not intended to duplicate the full array and types of offerings available at regular general academic campuses. The intent is to:

(1) Focus on teaching and on delivery of high demand courses and programs.

(2) Develop articulation agreements with community colleges in the area for provision of lower-division courses.

(3) Make extensive use of technology to limit the number of faculty required for the location and take full advantage of technological advances that promise to improve quality of learning, access to programs, and efficient use of existing resources.

(4) Use locally provided facilities, where possible. Except where authorized by statute or the Board, nothing in these sections is to be interpreted as permitting the acquisition by gift or purchase of real property for the purpose of establishing or operating an off-campus subdivision.

(d) Off-campus educational units shall adhere to quality and approval criteria regarding courses, programs, student services and other academic matters contained in §§4.101 - 4.108 of this title (relating to Approval of Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction for Public Colleges and Universities) and in the Guidelines for Institutional Plans for Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction (Notification and Approval Procedures for Distance Education and Off-Campus Programs and Courses and Guidelines for Institutional Plans for Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction located in Board policies.)

(e) An off-campus educational unit is financially dependent upon its parent institution(s) and supported within the budget of the institution(s). It is not eligible to request separate legislative funding. Semester credit hours completed at the unit must be reported by the parent institution(s) as off-campus courses and shall be funded as determined by the Legislature. Formula generated funds earned at an off-campus educational unit are expected to be applied to financing its operation.

(f) The Board shall maintain a list of degree programs offered at off-campus educational units.

(g) Programs may be offered by and in the name of the parent institution(s). No program may be offered at a teaching center that does not have prior approval to be offered at the parent institution, except under unusual and approved circumstances.

(h) The parent institution must commit to providing a program long enough for a student to have a reasonable opportunity to graduate before the resource is withdrawn or to make other reasonable arrangements for students to complete programs that they have started.

(i) The majority of faculty members at an off-campus educational unit must, by some means, have prior or continuing significant involvement at the parent institution. Faculty must comply with the provision of §§4.101 - 4.108 of this title (relating to Approval of Distance Education and Off-Campus Instruction for Public Colleges and Universities). They must be hired and evaluated by the same processes and with the same criteria as faculty performing similar duties at the parent institution. The parent institution should not make a permanent commitment to these faculty.

(j) Courses offered at off-campus educational units must be reported separately and accurately in required Board reports.

§5.78.Supply/Demand Pathway.

(a) The Board has developed the Supply/Demand Pathway as a particular way to address anticipated large-scale enrollment demand in a specified region. The Supply/Demand Pathway shall be used as the model to address higher education needs in areas without ready geographic access to existing public higher education institutions. The general principles set forth in §5.76 of this title (relating to General Principals for Off-Campus Educational Units) are even more significant in regard to the larger scale efforts designated as Supply/Demand Pathway initiatives.

(b) An off-campus educational unit is on the "Pathway" when it is awarded that designation by the Board.

(c) The supply/demand pathway consists of three categories:

(1) Category A. Institutions temporarily test the market both in terms of demand and staying power by providing off-campus courses and/or programs by one or more institutions. Should demand decrease or not materialize, courses and programs can be discontinued and resources moved to areas of greater demand.

(2) Category B. As demand increases, offerings may be organized through a multi-institution teaching center or as a university system center as a Pathway Education Center. A group of institutions may request that the Board authorize the establishment of a MITC. Alternatively, a university system may request that the Board authorize the establishment of a university system center. In either case, a lead institution should be designated to provide leadership for the center and facilitate the provision of programs and resources from other institutions.

(3) Category C. After an entity in Category B has attained a full-time equivalent upper-level and graduate enrollment of 3,500 for four fall semesters, the parent institution(s) and Board(s) of Regents may request that the Board review the status of the center and recommend that the Legislature reclassify the unit as an upper-level general academic institution--a university. Reclassification may be considered sooner if the center attains a fall semester full-time equivalent enrollment of 3,500 followed the next fall semester by a full-time equivalent enrollment of 4,000. The 3,500 FTSE standard approximates the headcount enrollment included in the current university funding formula as the minimum size needed to achieve economies of scale.

(d) Reporting. Institutions will report enrollments at centers on the pathway according to guidelines set up by the Commissioner. For the purpose of establishing the need for a new institution of higher education and meeting the enrollment threshold of 3,500 FTE students established in subsection (c)(3) of this section, internet-based courses and other courses offered in non-traditional formats that do not require the physical presence of the student at the center for a normal number of contact hours will not generally be counted. Exceptions to this general rule may be allowed if prior agreements are made with the Commissioner, but such exceptions will generally only be made for courses that are substantially supported from the center and represent a significant on-going educational need that can most effectively be served from the center.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 12, 2003.

TRD-200301048

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Chapter 6. HEALTH EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND RESEARCH FUNDS

Subchapter A. FAMILY PRACTICE RESIDENCY PROGRAM

19 TAC §§6.1 - 6.10

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§6.1-6.10 , concerning certain health-related education and research programs (Family Practice Residency Program). Specifically, these new sections would replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . The new sections reorganize and clarify the rules regarding the Family Practice Residency Program, the Graduate Medical Education Program, and the Tobacco Settlement Funds Program. Substantive changes to the Family Practice Residency Program and the Graduate Medical Education Program include authorizing the Commissioner to make grant awards and report to the Board these awards. Funding procedures are also established for these programs. No substantive changes are made to the Tobacco Settlement Funds Program.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years these sections are effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years these sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new rules are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; §61.503, which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules the Family Practice Residency Program, Texas Education Code, §61.0594, which authorizes the Board to administer the Graduate Medical Education Program, and Texas Education Code, §§63.202(c) and 63.302(c), which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules for the Tobacco Settlement Funds Program.

The new rules affect Texas Education Code, §61.503, Texas Education Code, §61.0594, and Texas Education Code §§63.202(c) and 63.302(c).

§6.1.Purpose.

The purpose of this subchapter is to implement rules regarding awards to Texas medical schools, licensed hospitals, or nonprofit corporations under the Family Practice Residency Program.

§6.2.Authority.

The authority for this subchapter is found in Texas Education Code, §§61.501 - 61.506.

§6.3.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(1) Board--The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(2) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education.

(3) Medical school--A public or independent medical institution that awards the doctor of medicine (M.D.) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (D.O.) degree, as identified in Texas Education Code, Chapter 61.501(1).

(4) Resident physician--A physician contractually obligated to a Texas medical school, licensed hospital, or non-profit corporation to receive residency education and training for a specified period of time.

(5) Approved family practice residency program--a three-year nationally accredited family practice residency program, as described in Texas Education Code, 61.501(2).

§6.4.Types of Grants.

Medical schools, licensed hospitals, or nonprofit corporations that sponsor a nationally accredited Family Practice Residency Program may apply for one or more of the following grants: Family Practice Residency Operational Grant, Support Grant, Rural Rotations Reimbursement Grant, and Public Health Rotation Reimbursement Grant.

(1) A Family Practice Residency Operational Grant is an annual, renewable grant to support the educational activities of fully accredited family practice residency programs.

(2) A Support Grant is an annual, renewable grant to support an ongoing statewide program to encourage research and leadership development of faculty of Texas family practice residency programs.

(3) A Rural Rotations Reimbursement Grant is a grant to reimburse program costs, recognize participation, and encourage rural practice location for resident physicians in training at nationally accredited Texas family practice residency programs. Funding is provided to offset costs associated with residents completing an optional one-month rotation in a rural setting in Texas.

(4) A Public Health Rotation Reimbursement Grant is a grant to reimburse program costs, recognize participation, and encourage future public health commitments for residents in training at nationally recognized Texas family practice residency programs. Funding is provided to offset costs associated with residents completing an optional one-month rotation in a public health setting in Texas.

§6.5.Award of Family Practice Residency Grants.

The Commissioner shall award all Family Practice Residency Grants after receiving the recommendations of the Family Practice Residency Advisory Committee. The Commissioner shall annually report all awards to the Board.

§6.6.Review of Family Practice Residency Grant Applications.

Applications for Family Practice Residency Grants shall be reviewed by the Family Practice Residency Advisory Committee for their viability and their benefit to the state. Family Residency Programs must serve the needs of the State of Texas in improving the distribution of health care delivery. The Advisory Committee's review shall include the following:

(1) The ability of the program to meet the requirements set out in this Subchapter and all program guidelines;

(2) Existing and anticipated costs and funding for currently funded programs and new programs requesting funding;

(3) The program's performance in:

(A) improving the distribution of family physicians throughout the state; and

(B) providing care to medically underserved areas of Texas; and

(C) encouraging residents to practice in underserved rural and inner-city areas of the state.

§6.7.Requirements for a Family Practice Residency Operational Grant.

To be considered for a Family Practice Residency Operational Grant, a medical school, licensed hospital, or nonprofit corporation requesting an Operational Grant must at a minimum:

(1) Show that the residency program is accredited by the Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) or the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) as a family practice residency program;

(2) Conform to Board criteria and financial reporting guidelines for a Family Practice Residency Operational Grant;

(3) Provide evidence that the residency program has been operational for three or more academic years;

(4) Document continuing local financial support for the program;

(5) Document expenditures and revenue for the program to substantiate funding needs; and

(6) Submit annual progress reports on the training program to the Coordinating Board that demonstrate the training program's efforts to recruit residents likely to practice in underserved areas of the state and the program's encouragement of residents to enter practice in underserved areas of the state.

§6.8.Requirements for a Support Grant.

A Support Grant may be provided to a medical school, licensed hospital, or nonprofit corporation to operate and maintain the Family Practice Faculty Development Center. The Center may be supported through federal, state, and other funds. To be considered for a Support Grant, a medical school, licensed hospital, or nonprofit corporation must:

(1) Conform to Board guidelines for Family Practice Residency Support Grant Programs;

(2) Give evidence that the program to be funded has been operational for three or more academic years; and

(3) Report on the expenditure of Support Grant funds in the Annual Financial Report.

§6.9.Requirements for a Rural Rotation Reimbursement Grant.

To be reimbursed for a family practice resident's one-month rural rotation in Texas, a Texas family practice residency program must:

(1) Submit notification of a resident's intent to complete a rural rotation, two-months prior to the beginning of the rotation;

(2) Give evidence that the program sponsored a resident in a rural rotation, which at the time of the rotation, conformed to Board rural rotation guidelines;

(3) Submit evaluations and request for funds upon completion of the rural rotation;

(4) Document expenditures for reimbursement in accordance with Board guidelines; and

(5) Report on receipt and expenditures to the Board and include financial information on completed rural rotations on the Annual Financial Report.

§6.10.Requirements for a Public Health Rotation Reimbursement Grant.

To be reimbursed for a family practice resident's one-month rotation through a public health setting in Texas, a Texas family practice residency program must:

(1) Submit documentation showing that the program sponsored a resident in a public health setting that met established Board guidelines;

(2) Document expenditures for public health rotations to substantiate the request for reimbursement in accordance with Board guidelines; and

(3) Submit progress reports and financial reports on Public Health Rotation Grants to the Board on an annual basis.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301001

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter B. GRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

19 TAC §§6.51 - 6.56

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§6.51-6.56, concerning certain health-related education and research programs (Graduate Medical Education Program). Specifically, these new sections would replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . The new sections reorganize and clarify the rules regarding the Family Practice Residency Program, the Graduate Medical Education Program, and the Tobacco Settlement Funds Program. Substantive changes to the Family Practice Residency Program and the Graduate Medical Education Program include authorizing the Commissioner to make grant awards and report to the Board these awards. Funding procedures are also established for these programs. No substantive changes are made to the Tobacco Settlement Funds Program.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years these sections are effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years these sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new rules are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; §61.503, which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules the Family Practice Residency Program, Texas Education Code, §61.0594, which authorizes the Board to administer the Graduate Medical Education Program, and Texas Education Code, §§63.202(c) and 63.302(c), which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules for the Tobacco Settlement Funds Program.

The new rules affect Texas Education Code, §61.503, Texas Education Code, §61.0594, and Texas Education Code §§63.202(c) and 63.302(c).

§6.51.Purpose.

The purpose of this subchapter is to implement rules for the allocation of state funds to support appropriate graduate medical education programs and activities for which adequate funds are not otherwise available; or to foster new or expanded graduate medical education programs or activities that the Board determines will address the state's needs for graduate medical education.

§6.52.Authority.

The authority for this subchapter is found in Texas Education Code, §61.0594.

§6.53.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(1) Board--The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(2) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education.

(3) Medical school--A public or independent medical institution that awards the doctor of medicine (M.D.) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (D.O.) degree, as identified in Texas Education Code, Chapter 61.501(1).

(4) Resident physician--A physician contractually obligated to a Texas medical school, licensed hospital, or non-profit corporation to receive residency education and training for a specified period of time.

§6.54.Advisory Committee.

The Board shall appoint an advisory committee to advise the Board and the Commissioner regarding the development and administration of the program.

§6.55.Award of Graduate Medical Education Program Grants.

(a) The Commissioner shall award all Graduate Education Program Grants, after receiving the recommendations of the advisory committee. The Commissioner shall annually report all awards to the Board.

(b) Graduate Education Program Grants may be used only to cover expenses related to the education of residents of the particular program or activity for which the award is made in accordance with any conditions imposed by the Board and may not otherwise be expended for the general support of the institution or entity.

§6.56.Eligibility.

To receive a Graduate Medical Education grant or formula distribution, an institution or other entity must:

(1) incur the costs of faculty supervision and education or the stipend costs of resident physicians in accredited clinical residency training programs in this state. The Board will consider the costs incurred by medical schools or other entities to support faculty responsible for the education or supervision of resident physicians;

(2) be a public medical school, licensed teaching hospitals, or non-profit corporation operating a nationally accredited allopathic or osteopathic residency programs;

(3) provide evidence, at least annually, that the residency program is accredited by the Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) or the American Osteopathic Association (AOA);

(4) meet the criteria and financial reporting guidelines for a Graduate Medical Education grant or formula distribution as determined by the advisory committee; and

(5) provide evidence, at least annually, that the residency program intends to provide continuing operational financial support.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301002

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter C. TOBACCO LAWSUIT SETTLEMENT FUNDS

19 TAC §§6.71 - 6.74

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§6.71-6.74, concerning certain health-related education and research programs (Tobacco Lawsuit Settlement Funds). Specifically, these new sections would replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . The new sections reorganize and clarify the rules regarding the Family Practice Residency Program, the Graduate Medical Education Program, and the Tobacco Settlement Funds Program. Substantive changes to the Family Practice Residency Program and the Graduate Medical Education Program include authorizing the Commissioner to make grant awards and report to the Board these awards. Funding procedures are also established for these programs. No substantive changes are made to the Tobacco Settlement Funds Program.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years these sections are effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years these sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new rules are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; §61.503, which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules the Family Practice Residency Program, Texas Education Code, §61.0594, which authorizes the Board to administer the Graduate Medical Education Program, and Texas Education Code, §§63.202(c) and 63.302(c), which provides the Board with the authority to adopt rules for the Tobacco Settlement Funds Program.

The new rules affect Texas Education Code, §61.503, Texas Education Code, §61.0594, and Texas Education Code §§63.202(c) and 63.302(c).

§6.71.Purpose and Authority.

The purpose of this subchapter is to describe the Board's criteria and process for awarding grants with Tobacco Lawsuit Settlement funds under two competitive grant programs: the Nursing, Allied Health and Other Health-related Education Grant Program; and the Minority Health Research and Education Grant Program. The Board is authorized to establish rules for these grant programs under Texas Education Code §63.202 (c) and §63.302 (d).

§6.72.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(1) Board--The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(2) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education.

§6.73.Nursing, Allied Health and Other Health-Related Education Grant Program.

(a) General Information. The program, as it applies to this section:

(1) Name--Nursing, Allied Health and Other Health-related Education Grant Program.

(2) Purpose--To provide funding to eligible institutions of higher education to establish or support academic instruction and training programs on public health issues specific to nursing, allied health and other health-related education.

(3) Authority--Texas Education Code, §§63.201 - 63.203.

(4) Eligible institutions--Public institutions of higher education that offer upper-level academic instruction and training in the fields of nursing, allied health, or other health-related education. Institutions or components identified under Texas Education Code, §63.002 (c), and §§63.101 - 63.102 are not eligible to receive funding through the grant program.

(5) Eligible programs--Nursing, allied health or other health-related educational initiatives, including those that expand existing academic programs, and develop other new or existing activities and projects, that are not funded by state appropriation during the funding period.

(6) Application requirements--Applications shall be submitted to the Board in the format and at the time specified by the Board.

(7) General Selection Criteria--Competitive. Designed to award grants that provide the best overall value to the state. Selection criteria shall be based on:

(A) Program quality as determined by peer reviewers;

(B) Impact the grant award shall have on academic instruction and training in public health-related education in the state;

(C) Cost of the proposed program; and

(D) Other factors to be considered by the Board, including financial ability to perform program, state and regional needs and priorities, ability to continue program after grant period, and past performance.

(8) Minimum award--$75,000 per award in any fiscal year.

(9) Maximum award--15 percent of the estimated available funding per award in any fiscal year.

(10) Maximum award length--A program is eligible to receive funding for two years within a fiscal biennium. Previously funded programs may reapply for one additional funding biennium.

(b) Peer Review.

(1) The Board shall use peer reviewers to evaluate the quality of applications.

(2) The Commissioner shall select qualified individuals to serve as reviewers. Peer reviewers shall demonstrate appropriate credentials to evaluate grant applications in health education. Reviewers shall not evaluate any applications for which they have a conflict of interest.

(3) The Board staff shall provide written instructions and training for peer reviewers.

(4) The peer reviewers shall score each application according to these award criteria and weights:

(A) Significance of instruction or training program. The reviewers shall consider issues such as: How relevant and timely is this topic to public health issues for the particular discipline? Is the program unique and important or unique and important for a geographic area? Will the program be useful to or later replicated at other institutions in the state? Will the program provide an advancement of knowledge that may result in positive changes in patient care, education or health care policy? How many people will benefit directly from the program? Maximum points: 30

(B) Resources to perform program. The reviewers shall consider issues such as: What new personnel, equipment and facility resources are needed for the program? What existing resources can be used? What are the professional credentials and experience of the program's key personnel? Maximum points: 15

(C) Program design. The reviewers shall consider issues such as: Is the program well defined? Is it a discrete program which can be completed in the grant period? Are the goals and objectives realistic? How well has the proposal described the program development process and the nature of analysis to be carried out? Maximum points: 25

(D) Cost sharing. The reviewers shall consider issues such as: What level of local funding, if any, is available to share in the cost of the program? Maximum points: 5

(E) Cost effectiveness. The reviewers shall consider issues such as: How appropriate are the chosen equipment, staffing and service providers for the program given the cost of the program? Is the budget realistic? Does the proposal make effective use of the grant funds? Maximum points: 25.

(F) Evaluation and expected outcomes. The reviewers shall consider issues such as: How well has the proposal described the methodology to evaluate and estimate the outcomes from the program? Is the evaluation methodology appropriate and effective? Are the outcomes realistic? Maximum points: 30

(c) Application and Review Process.

(1) The Commissioner may solicit recommendations from an advisory committee or other group of qualified individuals on funding priorities for each biennial grant period, and the administration of the application and review process.

(2) The Board staff shall review applications to determine if they adhere to the grant program requirements and the funding priorities contained in the Request for Proposal. An application must meet the requirements of the Request for Proposal and be submitted with proper authorization before or on the day specified by the Board to qualify for further consideration. Qualified applications shall be forwarded to the peer reviewers for evaluation. Board staff shall notify applicants eliminated through the screening process within 30 days of the submission deadline.

(3) Peer reviewers shall evaluate applications and assign scores based on award criteria. All evaluations and scores of the review committee are final.

(4) Board staff shall rank each application based on points assigned by peer reviewers, and recommend a priority ranked list of applications to the Commissioner for approval.

(d) Funding Decisions.

(1) Applications for grant funding shall be evaluated only upon the information provided in the written application.

(2) The Board delegates to the Commissioner the authority to approve grants upon the recommendation of the panel of peer reviewers and Board staff. The Commissioner shall report approved grants to the Board for each biennial grant period.

(3) Funding recommendations to the Commissioner shall consist of the most highly ranked and recommended applications up to the limit of available funds. If available funds are insufficient to fund a proposal after the higher-ranking and recommended applications have been funded, staff shall negotiate with the applicant to determine if a lesser amount would be acceptable. If the applicant does not agree to the lesser amount, the staff shall negotiate with the next applicant on the ranked list. The process shall be continued until all grant funds are awarded.

(e) Contract. Following approval of grant awards by the Commissioner, the successful applicants must sign a contract issued by Board staff and based on the information contained in the application.

(f) Cancellation or Suspension of Grants. The Board has the right to reject all applications and cancel a grant solicitation at any point before a contract is signed.

(g) Request for Proposal. The full text of the administrative regulations and budget guidelines for this program are contained in the official Request for Proposal (RFP) available upon request from the Board.

(h) This subsection pertains to the 2002-03 biennium only (rules are effective only from September 1, 2001 to August 31, 2003).

(1) Funds available to the program for the 2002-03 biennium will be distributed as grants in proportions determined by the Commissioner through three separate programs:

(A) a competitive, peer-reviewed process, as described in subsections (a)-(g) of this section;

(B) a competitive, peer-reviewed process for eligible institutions proposing to address the shortage of registered nurses, as described in subsections (a)-(g) of this section unless amended in subsections (h) (2) and (h) (3) of this section; and

(C) a funding formula for eligible institutions, as amended in subsection (h) (2) of this section that are seeking to increase enrollments in their nursing programs. The funding formula will give financial incentives to nursing faculty to provide clinical and classroom instruction in addition to carrying a full teaching load. In implementing a funding formula, the Board staff will consider semester credit hours, contact hours and full-time equivalent faculty positions and other data reported by or requested of eligible institutions.

(2) In subsection (a)(4), of this section, eligible institutions, as they pertain to subsection (h) (1) (B) and (h) (1) (C) of this section, are institutions of higher education, private or independent institutions of higher education and hospitals that offer nursing programs that prepare students for initial licensure as registered nurses.

(3) In subsections (a)(5), (a)(8), and (b)(4), of this section, the following pertain to subsection (h) (1) (B) of this section:

(A) Eligible programs - Nursing initiatives that propose to address the shortage of registered nurses by developing new or existing activities and projects that will promote innovation in the recruitment and retention of nursing students and faculty.

(B) Minimum award - Minimum award is $10,000 per award in any fiscal year.

(C) Peer review award criteria and weights may be adjusted to best fulfill the purpose of the grant program.

(4) In subsection (a)(8) of this section, as it pertains to subsection (h) (1) (A) of this section, the minimum award will be $10,000.

§6.74.Minority Health Research and Education Grant Program.

(a) General Information. The program, as it applies to this section:

(1) Name--Minority Health Research and Education Grant Program.

(2) Purpose--To provide funding to eligible institutions of higher education to conduct research and educational programs on public health issues affecting one or more minority groups in Texas.

(3) Authority--Texas Government Code, §§63.301 - 63.302.

(4) Minority--a particular ethnic or racial group that is under-represented in one or more areas of health research or health education.

(5) Eligible institutions--Public and private accredited general academic and health-related institutions, and Centers for Teacher Education, that conduct research or educational programs that address minority health issues or form partnerships with minority organizations, colleges, or universities to conduct research and educational programs that address minority health issues. Two-year institutions, including junior and community colleges, state colleges or technical colleges, and other agencies of higher education as defined by Texas Education Code, §61.003 (6) are not eligible to submit an application for program funding but may receive program funding indirectly as a partner to an eligible institution.

(6) Eligible programs--Research and educational initiatives, including those that expand existing research and degree programs, and develop other new or existing activities and projects, that are not funded by state appropriation during the funding period. Proposed programs shall not conflict with current judicial decisions and state interpretation on administering minority programs in higher education.

(7) Application requirements--Applications shall be submitted to the Board in the format and at the time specified by the Board.

(8) General Selection Criteria--Competitive. Designed to award grants that provide the best overall value to the state. Selection criteria shall be based on:

(A) Program quality as determined by peer reviewers;

(B) Impact the grant award shall have on public health issues affecting one or more minority groups in the state;

(C) Cost of the proposed program; and

(D) Other factors to be considered by the Board, including financial ability to perform program, state and regional needs and priorities, whether the eligible institution has been designated as an Historically Black or Hispanic Serving institution by the U.S. Department of Education, ability to continue program after grant period, and past performance.

(9) Minimum award--$50,000 per award in any fiscal year.

(10) Maximum award--15 percent of the estimated available funding per award in any fiscal year.

(11) Maximum award length--A program is eligible to receive funding for two years within a fiscal biennium. Previously funded programs may reapply for one additional funding biennium.

(b) Peer Review.

(1) The Board shall use peer reviewers to evaluate the quality of applications.

(2) The Commissioner shall select qualified individuals to serve as reviewers. Peer reviewers shall demonstrate appropriate credentials to evaluate grant applications in health research and education. Reviewers shall not evaluate any applications for which they have a conflict of interest.

(3) The Board staff shall provide written instructions and training for peer reviewers.

(4) The peer reviewers shall score each application according to these award criteria and weights:

(A) Significance of research or educational program for minority health issues. The reviewers shall consider issues such as: How relevant and timely is this topic to minority public health issues? Is the program unique and important or unique and important for a geographic area? Will the program be useful to or later replicated at other institutions in the state? Will the program provide an advancement of knowledge that may result in positive changes in patient care, education or health care policy for minorities? How many people will benefit directly from the program? Maximum points: 30

(B) Resources to perform program. The reviewers shall consider issues such as: What new personnel, equipment and facility resources are needed for the program? What existing resources can be used? Will the program draw on resources from other institutions and organizations? Do the institution's partners, if any, demonstrate financial stability and effectiveness in conducting similar research or education programs? What are the professional credentials and experience of the program's key personnel? Maximum points: 15

(C) Program design. The reviewers shall consider issues such as: Is the program well defined? Is it a discrete program which can be completed in the grant period? Are the goals and objectives realistic? How well has the proposal described the data collection or program development process and the nature of analysis to be carried out? Maximum points: 25

(D) Cost sharing. The reviewers shall consider issues such as: What level of local funding, if any, is available to share in the cost of the program? Maximum points: 5

(E) Cost effectiveness. The reviewers shall consider issues such as: How appropriate are the chosen equipment, staffing and service providers for the program given the cost of the program? Is the budget realistic? Does the proposal make effective use of the grant funds? Maximum points: 25.

(F) Evaluation and expected outcomes. The reviewers shall consider issues such as: How well has the proposal described the methodology to evaluate and estimate the outcomes from the program? Is the evaluation methodology appropriate and effective? Are the outcomes realistic? Maximum points: 30

(c) Application and Review Process.

(1) The Commissioner may solicit recommendations from an advisory committee or other group of qualified individuals on funding priorities for each biennial grant period, and the administration of the application and review process.

(2) The Board staff shall review applications to determine if they adhere to the grant program requirements and the funding priorities contained in the Request for Proposal. An application must meet the requirements of the Request for Proposal and be submitted with proper authorization before or on the day specified by the Board to qualify for further consideration. Qualified applications shall be forwarded to the peer reviewers for evaluation. Board staff shall notify applicants eliminated through the screening process within 30 days of the submission deadline.

(3) Peer reviewers shall evaluate applications and assign scores based on award criteria. All evaluations and scores of the review committee are final.

(4) Board staff shall rank each application based on points assigned by peer reviewers, and recommend a priority ranked list of applications to the Commissioner for approval.

(d) Funding Decisions.

(1) Applications for grant funding shall be evaluated only upon the information provided in the written application.

(2) The Board delegates to the Commissioner the authority to approve grants upon the recommendation of the panel of peer reviewers and Board staff. The Commissioner shall report approved grants to the Board for each biennial grant period.

(3) Funding recommendations to the Commissioner shall consist of the most highly ranked and recommended applications up to the limit of available funds. If available funds are insufficient to fund a proposal after the higher-ranking and recommended applications have been funded, staff shall negotiate with the applicant to determine if a lesser amount would be acceptable. If the applicant does not agree to the lesser amount, the staff shall negotiate with the next applicant on the ranked list. The process shall be continued until all grant funds are awarded.

(e) Contract. Following approval of grant awards by the Commissioner, the successful applicants shall sign a contract issued by Board staff and based on the information contained in the application.

(f) Cancellation or Suspension of Grants. The Board has the right to reject all applications and cancel a grant solicitation at any point before a contract is signed.

(g) Request for Proposal. The full text of the administrative regulations and budget guidelines for this program are contained in the official Request for Proposal (RFP) available upon request from the Board.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301003

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Chapter 7. PRIVATE AND OUT-OF-STATE PUBLIC POSTSECONDARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS OPERATING IN TEXAS

Subchapter A. GENERAL PROVISIONS

19 TAC §§7.1 - 7.17

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§7.1-7.17, concerning private and out-of-state institutions offering baccalaureate, graduate or professional degrees in Texas. Specifically, these new sections replace existing sections which are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . The new sections assemble in one chapter, renumber, and clarify current rules affecting institutions that are not supported by the State of Texas - and are not subject to the provisions affecting state institutions - in their own chapter to distinguish their oversight from the agency's oversight of Texas public universities and health-related institutions. Many sections were modified or restructured to clarify the current rules. The sections which contain substantive amendments or new regulations are detailed below. §7.3 (Definitions) expands and clarifies definitions. Paragraph (2) expands the definition of "Agent" currently found at §5.211 by including agents located in Texas but soliciting non-Texas residents, consistent with the scope of the definition in the Texas Education Code, §61.303. Paragraphs (4) and (5) add definitions of "certificate of authority" and of "certificate of authorization" to explain the different types of certificates available to institutions. Paragraph (10) adds a definition of "occasional courses" so that it will be clear to institutions with minimal contacts in this state how extensive their operations may be without becoming subject to the requirement of Board approval to operate a branch campus. §7.4 (Exemptions, Certificates of Authorization, and Revocation of Exemptions and Certificates of Authorization) clarifies which institutions are exempt from the statute and adds a statement about the process for appealing the revocation of an exemption. No substantive policy changes were made. §7.5 (Administrative Procedures Related to Certification of Nonexempt Institutions). §7.5 (d)(6)(B) contains language that is not found in the current rule at §5.213(g)(5), but the new language simply reiterates existing law. §7.5 (d)(6)(D) clarifies language currently found at §5.213(g)(5), establishing that an institution that has been denied a certificate of authority, and that later receives a certificate of authority, will have the same amount of time remaining within the eight-year period in which to achieve accreditation after its reinstatement that it had remaining in the period prior to the denial. The eight year limitation does not include periods during which the institution is without a certificate of authority. §7.6 (Certificate of Authority-- Eligibility, Applications, Renewals, and Amendments) reorganizes the current §5.215, adding some rules from §§5.213(c) and 5.213(h)(1). It clarifies language, and establishes a ten-day period within which an institutional officer must report changes in material facts relating to the institution's certificate of authority. Otherwise, the proposed rule contains no substantive policy changes. §7.7 (Standards for Nonexempt Institutions) restructures and clarifies the current rules found at §5.214, and include a few changes in current law. §7.7(1) clarifies that the applicant institution must demonstrate compliance with the Proprietary School Act. The prior section in 5.214(24) spoke only generally about compliance with all laws, though the Board requires evidence of this specific compliance. §7.7(7) contains new requirements regarding an institution's duty to conduct self-assessments. Prior §5.214(4) required only self-assessment of the institution's academic program. The proposed section requires assessment of all aspects of the institution. §7.7(10) clarifies that in current §5.214(7), the term "full-time faculty" means a person holding a full-time teaching appointment and not merely a full-time employee of the institution. §7.7(18) notifies readers that an institution's duty to provide records and transcripts to its students may be circumscribed by federal or state law regarding institutions' duty to assist in student loan collection. §7.7(13)(D)(ii) requires more specificity in the written agreement between a providing institution and an applicant institution than current §5.214(9) requires. §7.7(17) would require institutions to retain a great deal more information about a student's period of enrollment than is currently required by the language of §5.214(16), but the requirements specified in the proposed rule are no more than any prudently run institution would ordinarily maintain, and no more than any recognized accrediting agency would require. §7.8 (Certificate of Registration for Agents of Nonexempt Institutions) adds a statement about the appeals process. §7.9 (Operation of Branch Campuses, Extension Centers, or Other Off-Campus Units by Exempt Institutions) was amended with a list of standards to be met by accredited schools, mostly out-of-state, which operate branch campuses in Texas. The standards are derived from the current Standards for Nonexempt Institutions and merely make explicit the expectations of the Board for the operation of branch campuses, which is not explicit in the current §5.217. These changes do not represent substantive changes in policy beyond those addressed in §7.7. §7.11 (Revocation of Certificates to Nonexempt Institutions and Agents). §§7.11(a) and (b) change §5.219(a) and (b) by empowering the Commissioner, instead of the Board, to revoke certificates of authority and certificates of registration, which allows a more timely addressing of issues associated with revoking a certificate and will, thereby, better protect the public from fraud. §7.11(d) adds a duty, for institutions which have agents whose certificates of registration are revoked, to take positive steps to divest the agent of apparent authority to represent the institution and to notify the media and affected students at the institution of the misrepresentations made by the agent and of the truth. This requirement is consistent with law regarding the nature of an agency relationship, and is consistent with the Board's rulemaking authority. §7.12 (Prohibitions Applicable to Nonexempt Institutions). §7.12(a)(2) adds to the current rule in §5.220(a)(2) so that representing that credits earned or granted are applicable for credit toward a degree to be granted by some other person or institution and representing that credits granted are "collegiate in nature" is prohibited. This agency has found that if we are too specific about prohibited terminology, institutions escape the intent of the statute by devising creative ways to avoid the literal terminology, while nonetheless creating the same misimpressions that the statute prohibits. §7.12(b) creates a rule concerning institutions over which the state has no jurisdiction because they operate on federally controlled lands. The proposed rule attempts to state existing law in a succinct manner, to clarify that institutions situated on federal lands may not use the federal land as a base for extending operations beyond the boundaries of the federal land to advertise and solicit the enrollment of Texas students who otherwise have no association with the base. §7.13 (Duties upon Dissolution of an Institution) changes §5.213(h)(2) by empowering the Commissioner, instead of the Board, to initiate action to prevent the loss of academic records at closed institutions. This proposal would allow more timely addressing of the issues associated with the closing of an institution. Therefore, it would afford students better protection from loss of essential information than the current process affords. §7.15 (Administrative Penalties). §7.15(a)(3) broadens existing §5.222(a) by stating that penalties can be issued against unauthorized institutions which mislead students by representing that credits from their institution are collegiate in nature. This rule compliments §7.12(a)(2), which makes clearer what types of misrepresentations are prohibited under the statute. §7.15(a)(4) adds to existing §5.220(a) the statement that not only is each degree conferred without authority a separate offense, but also that each person enrolled in a course or courses through misrepresentations constitutes a separate offense. This rule is consistent with the prohibitions in the statute and is within the Board's rulemaking authority

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the new sections are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting private and out-of-state institutions offering baccalaureate, graduate or professional degrees in Texas. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new sections are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Board with general rule-making authority; Texas Education Code, §61.002, which establishes the Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; Texas Education Code, §§61.301 - 61.319, concerning regulation of private postsecondary education institutions; §61.311, which provides the Board with the authority to promulgate rules governing certificates of authority; Texas Education Code, §§61.401 - 405, regarding regulation of public institutions of higher education established outside the boundaries of the State of Texas; and Texas Education Code, §61.311 which provides the Board with the authority to promulgate rules regarding out of state public institutions.

The new rules affect Texas Education Code, §§61.301 - 61.319, and Texas Education Code, §§61.401 - 61.405.

§7.1.Purpose.

This subchapter clarifies the standards and details the process by which nonexempt private postsecondary educational institutions may be granted by the Board a certificate of authority to offer degrees or to offer credits toward degrees and to use certain academic terms within the state. These rules proscribe certain behavior, and specify the sanctions that may be imposed for violations of the applicable rules and statutes.

§7.2.Authority.

These rules relate to the Texas Education Code, Subchapter G, §§61.301 through 61.319 and Subchapter H, §§61.401 through 61.405, which regulates the awarding or offering of degrees, awarding or offering credit toward degrees, and the use of certain academic terms by private and out-of-state public postsecondary educational institutions.

§7.3.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1) Agent--A person employed by or representing a post-secondary educational institution within or without Texas who:

(A) solicits any Texas student for enrollment in the institution;

(B) solicits or accepts payment from any Texas student for any service offered by the institution; or

(C) while having a physical presence in Texas, solicits students or accepts payment from students who are without Texas.

(2) Board--The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(3) Branch campus, extension center, or other off-campus unit--Any institution or part of an institution offering or proposing to offer away from the home campus more than occasional courses or courses leading to the granting of a degree without the necessity for courses to be taken at the main campus.

(4) Certificate of authority--The Board's approval of institutions of higher education, (other than exempt institutions) with operations in the state of Texas, to confer degrees or courses applicable to degrees, or to solicit students for enrollment in institutions that confer degrees or courses applicable to degrees.

(5) Certificate of authorization--The Board's acknowledgment that an institution is qualified for an exemption from the regulations herein.

(6) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education.

(7) Degree--Any title or designation, mark, abbreviation, appellation, or series of letters or words, including "associate", "bachelor's", "master's", "doctor's" and their equivalents and foreign cognates, which signify, purport to signify, or are generally taken to signify satisfactory completion of the requirements of all or part of a program of study which is generally regarded and accepted as an academic degree-level program by accrediting agencies recognized by the Board.

(8) Educational or training establishment--An enterprise offering a course of instruction, education, or training that the establishment does not represent to be applicable to a degree.

(9) Home campus--The headquarters of an institution, such location to be determined as a matter of fact by the Commissioner based upon consideration of information such as, but not limited to the following:

(A) where the institution is chartered;

(B) the site, campus or city where the principal or chief executive's offices are located;

(C) the site, campus or city where the institution conducts the preponderance of its instructional activities; and

(D) any other pertinent and material facts.

(10) Occasional courses--Courses offered not more than twice at any given location in the state.

(11) Out-of-state public institution of higher education--Any senior college, university, technical institute, junior or community college, or the equivalent which is controlled by a public body organized outside the boundaries of the State of Texas.

(12) Person--Any individual, firm, partnership, association, corporation, enterprise, or other private entity or any combination thereof.

(13) Private postsecondary educational institution or institution--An educational institution which:

(A) is not a public junior college, public senior college or university, medical or dental unit or other agency as defined in Texas Education Code §61.003;

(B) is incorporated under the laws of this state, or maintains a place of business in this state, or has an agent or representative present in this state, or solicits business in this state; and

(C) furnishes or offers to furnish courses of instruction in person, by electronic media, or by correspondence leading to a degree; provides or offers to provide credits alleged to be applicable to a degree; or represents that credits earned or granted are collegiate in nature, including describing them as "college-level," or at the level of any protected academic term.

(14) Program or Program of study--Any course or grouping of courses which are represented as entitling a student to a degree or to credits applicable to a degree.

(15) Recognized accrediting agency--Any accrediting agency the standards of accreditation or membership for which have been found by the Board to be sufficiently comprehensive and rigorous to qualify its institutional members for an exemption from the operation of this chapter.

(16) Representative--A person who acts on behalf of an institution regulated under this subchapter. The term includes, without limitation, recruiters, agents, tutors, counselors, business agents, instructors, and any other instructional or support personnel.

(17) The subchapter--Texas Education Code, Title 3, Chapter 61, Subchapter G, as amended, having an effective date of June 21, 1975.

§7.4.Exemptions, Revocation of Exemptions, and Certificates of Authorization.

(a) The provisions of this subchapter do not apply to:

(1) The home campus of an institution which is fully accredited by a recognized accrediting agency. For purposes of the exemption, the Board currently recognizes the following accrediting agencies: the Commission on Higher Education, Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education, New England Association of Schools and Colleges; the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; the Commission on Colleges, Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges; the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges and Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities, Western Association of Schools and Colleges; the Accrediting Association of Bible Colleges; and the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada.

(2) A branch campus, extension center, or other off-campus unit operated by a private or independent institution of higher education as narrowly defined by Texas Education Code, §61.003.

(3) An institution or degree program that has received approval by an agency of the State of Texas authorizing the graduates of the institution to take a professional or vocational state licensing examination administered by that agency. The granting of permission by a state agency to a graduate of an institution to take a licensing examination does not by itself constitute approval of the institution or degree program required for an exemption under this subsection.

(b) The exemptions provided by subsection (a) of this section apply only to the degree level for which the programs or the institution is accredited or approved, as applicable, and if an institution offers to award a degree at a level for which it is not accredited or approved by the appropriate agency of the State of Texas, the exemption does not apply.

(c) The Commissioner may issue a certificate of authorization to grant degrees to an exempt institution, upon the institution's application and demonstration that it qualifies for an exemption under subsection (a)(1) of this section, as limited by subsection (b) of this section.

(d) A new institution may not presume exempt status and offer to award degrees or courses leading to degrees until it has applied for and been granted a certificate of authorization by the Commissioner.

(e) An exempt institution continues in that status only so long as it maintains accreditation by a recognized accrediting agency or otherwise meets the provisions of subsection (a) of this section.

(f) Revocation of an exemption.

(1) If the Commissioner receives credible evidence that an institution is no longer qualified for an exemption, he shall notify the institution that its exempt status is revoked, and that the institution is subject to the requirements Chapter 61 of the Texas Education Code, and of this subchapter.

(2) Upon receipt of the notice of revocation, the institution must cease granting or awarding degrees in Texas until it has either been granted a certificate of authority to grant degrees, or has received a determination that it did not lose its qualification for an exemption.

(3) Within 10 days of its receipt of the Commissioner's notice, the institution must respond and offer proof of its continued qualification for the exemption.

(4) After reviewing the evidence, the Commissioner will issue a notice of determination, which in the case of an adverse determination, shall contain information regarding the reasons for the denial, and the institution's right to a hearing.

(5) If a determination under this section is adverse to an institution, it shall become final and binding unless, within 45 days of its receipt of the adverse determination, the institution invokes the administrative remedies contained in Chapter 1, subchapter B of this title (relating to Hearings and Appeals).

§7.5.Administrative Procedures Related to Certification of Nonexempt Institutions.

(a) The Board may issue to a nonexempt institution a certificate of authority to grant a degree or degrees and to enroll students for courses which may be applicable toward a degree if the Board finds that the institution meets the standards established herein.

(b) Certification Advisory Council.

(1) The Board shall appoint a certification advisory council to advise the Board on standards and procedures related to certification of private, nonexempt postsecondary educational institutions, to assist the Commissioner in the examination of individual applications for certificates of authority, and to perform other duties related to certification that the Board finds to be appropriate.

(2) The council shall consist of six members with experience in higher education, three of whom must be drawn from exempt private institutions of higher education in Texas.

(3) The members shall be appointed for two year fixed and staggered terms.

(c) Fees.

(1) Certificates of Authority. Each biennium the Commissioner shall set the fee for initial and renewal applications for certificates of authority, which shall be equal to the average cost of evaluating the applications. The fee shall include the costs of travel, meals, and lodging of the visiting team and the Commissioner, or the Commissioner's designated representatives, and consulting fees for the visiting team members.

(2) Each biennium, the Commissioner shall also set the fees for amendments to certificates of authority; initial reviews of branch campuses or extension centers; site visits to branch campuses or extension centers; and certificates of registration of agents.

(3) The Commissioner shall report changes in the fees to the Board at a quarterly meeting.

(d) Board's review of applications.

(1) The Commissioner, or the Commissioner's designated representatives, and an ad hoc team of independent consultants, if the Commissioner finds that such a team would provide a benefit to the Board or to the institution, will visit the institution and conduct an on-site survey to evaluate the application for a certificate of authority. The visiting team will be composed of people who have experience on the faculties or staffs of accredited institutions and who possess knowledge of accreditation standards.

(2) The visiting team will prepare a written report of its findings regarding the institution's ability to meet the standards for a certificate of authority. This report will be provided to the applicant institution, which shall have 30 days within which to respond in writing to each adverse finding.

(3) The certification advisory council will review the findings of the visiting team and the response of the institution and submit to the Commissioner a recommendation concerning the application.

(4) The Commissioner will forward to the Board the recommendation of the advisory council with his endorsement or with an alternate recommendation.

(5) Upon approval of the Board to award a certificate of authority to an institution, the Commissioner will act immediately to prepare and forward the certificate. It shall state, at a minimum, that the institution is authorized to grant certain degrees, the issue date, and the period for which the certificate is valid.

(6) If the Board denies an institution's application for a certificate of authority, or for renewal of its certificate of authority, the Commissioner shall notify the institution in writing of the denial and of the reasons for the denial.

(A) The institution will not be eligible to reapply for a period of one year.

(B) Until the certificate of authority is reinstated, the institution may not grant degrees or enroll students for courses which may be applicable toward a degree.

(C) The subsequent application must show, in addition to all other requirements described herein, correction of the deficiencies which led to the denial.

(D) The period of time during which the institution does not hold a certificate of authority shall not be counted against the 8-year period within which the institution must achieve accreditation from a recognized accrediting agency, as described in §7.6(d)(3) of this title (relating to Certificate of Authority); the time period begins to run again upon reinstatement.

(7) If a determination under this section is adverse to an institution, it shall become final and binding unless, within 45 days of its receipt of the adverse determination, the institution invokes the administrative remedies contained in Chapter 1, subchapter B of this title (relating to Hearings and Appeals).

(e) Terms and limitations of a certificate of authority.

(1) The certificate of authority to grant degrees is valid for a period of two years from the date of issuance.

(2) Certification by the State of Texas is not accreditation, but merely a protection of the public interest while the institution pursues accreditation from a recognized agency, within the time limitations expressed in §7.6(c)(3) of this title (relating to Certificate of Authority). Therefore, the institution awarded a certificate of authority shall not use terms to interpret the significance of the certificate which specify, imply, or connote greater approval than simple permission to operate and grant certain specified degrees in Texas. Terms which may not be used include, but are not limited to, "accredited," "supervised," "endorsed," and "recommended" by the State of Texas or agency thereof. Specific language prescribed by the Commissioner which explains the significance of the certificate of authority shall be included in all publications, advertisements, and other documents where certification and the accreditation status of the institution are mentioned.

(f) Recognition of Accrediting Agencies. The Board recognizes accrediting agencies for purposes of this section provided they can demonstrate they meet the criteria listed below.

(1) The accrediting agency must be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or its successor and by the United States Department of Education.

(2) The accrediting agency's standards must be at least as comprehensive and rigorous as the standards listed in §7.7 of this title (relating to Standards for Nonexempt Institutions) and be as rigorously applied.

§7.6.Certificate of Authority--Eligibility, Applications, Renewals, and Amendments.

(a) Eligibility to apply. The Board will accept applications for a certificate of authority only from those institutions:

(1) proposing to offer a degree or credit courses alleged to be applicable to a degree; and

(2) which have been in operation in Texas and have complied with Texas statutes as non degree-granting institutions or educational or training establishments for a minimum of two years. As a minimum, "in operation" means to enroll students and to conduct classes.

(b) Application for certificate of authority.

(1) Institutions seeking a certificate of authority are urged to contact the Board's Institutional Certification Office before filing a formal application.

(2) Applications must be submitted with an original and four copies and accompanied by the fee described in §7.5(c) of this title (relating to Administrative Procedures Related to Certification of Nonexempt Institutions).

(3) Documentary evidence of compliance with subsection (a)(2) of this section must be filed with the application.

(4) An institution must be fully operational as of the date of the on-site evaluation; i.e., it must have in-hand or under contract all the human, physical, administrative, and financial resources necessary to demonstrate its capability to meet the standards for nonexempt institutions. The conditions found at the institution as of the date of the on-site evaluation visit will provide the basis for the visiting team's evaluation and report, the certification advisory council's recommendation, the Commissioner's recommendation, and the Board's determination of the institution's qualifications for a certificate of authority.

(c) Renewal of certificate of authority.

(1) At least 180 days, but no more than 210 days, prior to the expiration of the current certificate of authority, an institution, if it desires renewal, shall make application to the Board on forms provided upon request. Reports not previously submitted to the Board, related to the application for or renewal of accreditation by national or regional accrediting agencies shall be included. The renewal application shall be accompanied by the fee described in §7.5(c) of this title (relating to Administrative Procedures Related to Certification of Nonexempt Institutions).

(2) The application for renewal of the certificate of authority will be evaluated in the same manner as that prescribed for evaluation of an initial application, except that the evaluation will include the institution's record of improvement and progress toward accreditation.

(3) An institution may be granted consecutive certificates of authority for no longer than eight years. Absent sufficient cause, at the end of the eight years, the institution must be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.

(4) Subject to the restrictions of paragraph (3) of this subsection, the Board shall renew the certificate if it finds that the institution has maintained all requisite standards and is making progress toward accreditation.

(5) The Board shall consider the application of any accreditation standard that prohibits accreditation of an institution solely on the basis of religious policies practiced by the institution as sufficient justification for extending the institution's eligibility for certification to grant degrees of a religious nature only, if the institution:

(A) has applied for and pursued accreditation in good faith;

(B) meets all other standards at the level of accreditation; and

(C) satisfies all other requirements of the Board.

(d) Amendments to a certificate of authority.

(1) An institution which wishes to amend an existing program of study to award a new or different degree during the period of time covered by its current certificate may file an application for amendment, on forms provided by the Board upon request.

(2) Applications for amendment shall be accompanied by the fee described in §7.5(c) of this title (relating to Administrative Procedures Related to Certification of Nonexempt Institutions).

(3) If the Board finds that the new program of study meets the required standards, the Board may amend the institution's certificate accordingly.

(e) Authority to represent transferability of course credit. Any institution as defined in §7.3 of this title (relating to Definitions), whether it offers degrees or not, may solicit students for and enroll them in courses on the basis that such courses will be credited to a degree program offered by another institution, provided that:

(1) the other institution is named in such representation, and is accredited by an accrediting agency listed in §7.3 of this title (relating to Definitions);

(2) the courses are identified for which credit is claimed to be applicable to the degree programs at the other institution; and

(3) the written agreement between the institution subject to these rules and the accredited institution is approved by both institutions' Boards of trustees in writing and by their accrediting agencies, and is filed with the Board.

(f) Duty to Report.

(1) Institutions holding a certificate of authority will be required to:

(A) furnish a list of their agents to the Board; and

(B) maintain records of students enrolled, credits awarded, and degrees awarded, in a manner specified by the Board.

(2) Any change in principal location, ownership, governance, administrative personnel, faculty, or facilities at the institution, or any other changes relevant to the Board's standards for certification, shall be reported to the Board within ten days of the change by the chief administrative officer of the institution.

(g) If an order, decision, or determination made pursuant to this section is adverse to an institution, the reasons therefore shall be detailed in a notice to the institution. The order, decision, or determination shall become final and binding unless, within 45 days of its receipt of the adverse order, decision, or determination, the institution invokes the administrative remedies contained in Chapter 1, subchapter B of this title (relating to Hearings and Appeals).

§7.7.Standards for Certificates of Authority.

The decision to grant a certificate of authority to an institution will be based on its demonstrated compliance with the following twenty-one standards. Particular attention will be paid to the institution's commitment to education, responsiveness to recommendations and suggestions for improvement, and, in the case of a renewal of a certificate of authority, record of improvement and progress following initial approval which would ensure accreditation within the time limits specified in §7.6(c)(3) of this title (relating to Certificate of Authority). The twenty-one standards represent generally accepted administrative and academic practices and principles of accredited institutions of higher education in Texas. Such practices and principles are generally set forth by regional and specialized accrediting bodies and the academic and professional societies which have established standards for their members' programs, such as the National Association of College and University Business Officers and the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers.

(1) Legal Compliance. The institution shall be maintained and operated in compliance with all applicable ordinances and laws, including the rules and regulations adopted to administer those ordinances and laws. The institution shall demonstrate compliance with the Texas Education Code, Chapter 132 by supplying a copy of a certificate of approval to operate a proprietary school or a letter of exemption from the Texas Workforce Commission.

(2) Qualifications of Institutional Officers. The character, education, and experience in higher education of governing Board members, administrators, supervisors, counselors, agents, and other institutional officers shall be such as may reasonably ensure that the students will receive education consistent with the objectives of the course or program of study. In particular, the academic administrator shall be qualified by level and area of academic preparation, as well as through appropriate experience, to direct the academic affairs of the institution.

(3) Governing Board. The governing Board of the institution, consisting of at least five members, shall be an active policy-making body, independent from any person or organization, and shall exercise its authority to ensure that the mission of the institution is carried out. Members of the Board shall represent the interests of the institution's constituencies of faculty, students, and supporters. The presiding officer of the Board, along with a majority of the other voting members, shall have no contractual, employment, or personal or familial financial interest in the institution and derive no financial gain from the operations of the institution.

(4) Distinction of Roles. There shall be sufficient distinction among the roles and personnel of the governing Board of the institution, the administration, and faculty to ensure their appropriate separation and independence.

(5) Financial Resources and Stability. The institution shall have adequate financial resources and financial stability to provide education of good quality and to be able to fulfill its commitments to students. The institution shall have sufficient reserves so that, together with tuition and fees, it would be able to complete its educational obligations to currently enrolled students if it were unable to admit any new students.

(6) Financial Records. Financial records and reports of the institution shall be kept and made separate and distinct from those of any affiliated or sponsoring person or entity. Financial records and reports shall be kept in accordance with the guidelines of the National Association of College and University Business Officers as set forth in College and University Business Administration, Sixth Edition), or such later editions as may be published. An annual independent audit of all fiscal accounts of the educational institution shall be authorized by the governing Board and shall be performed by a properly authorized certified public accountant.

(7) Institutional Assessment. Continual and effective assessment, planning, and evaluation of all aspects of the institution shall be conducted to advance and improve the institution. These aspects include, but are not limited to, the academic program of teaching, research, and public service; administration; financial planning and control; student services; facilities and equipment, and auxiliary enterprises.

(8) Student Admission and Remediation.

(A) Upon the admission of a student to any undergraduate program, the institution shall document the student's level of preparation to undertake college level work by obtaining proof of the student's high school graduation or General Educational Development (GED) certification and by assessing the student with appropriate diagnostic tests. If a GED is presented, to be valid, the score must be at or above the passing level set by the Texas Education Agency. The institution shall provide an effective program of remediation for students diagnosed with deficiencies in their preparation for collegiate study.

(B) Upon the admission of a student to any graduate program, the institution shall document that the student is prepared to undertake graduate-level work by obtaining proof that the student holds a baccalaureate degree from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency or a degree from a foreign institution equivalent to a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution. The institution shall follow standard practice in assessing the credentials of students who graduated from foreign institutions.

(9) Faculty Qualifications. The character, education, and experience in higher education of the faculty shall be such as may reasonably ensure that the students will receive an education consistent with the objectives of the course or program of study.

(A) Each faculty member teaching in an academic associate or baccalaureate level degree program shall have at least a master's degree from an institution accredited by a recognized agency with at least 18 graduate semester credit hours in the discipline being taught.

(B) At least 25 percent of the courses in an academic associate or baccalaureate level major shall be taught by faculty members holding doctorates, or other terminal degrees, in the discipline being taught, from institutions accredited by a recognized agency.

(C) Each faculty member teaching technical or vocational courses in a vocational associate degree program shall have at least an associate degree in the discipline being taught from an institution accredited by a recognized agency and at least three years of direct or closely related experience in the discipline being taught.

(D) Each faculty member teaching general education courses in a vocational associate degree program shall meet the requirements for academic associate faculty listed above.

(E) Graduate-level degree programs shall be taught by faculty holding doctorates, or other degrees generally recognized as the highest attainable in the discipline being taught from institutions accredited by a recognized agency.

(10) Faculty Size. There shall be a sufficient number of faculty holding full time teaching appointments who are resident and accessible to the students to ensure continuity and stability of the education program, adequate educational association between students and faculty and among the faculty members, and adequate opportunity for proper preparation for instruction and professional growth by faculty members. At the associate and baccalaureate levels, there shall be at least one full-time faculty member in each program. At the graduate level, there shall be at least four full-time faculty members in each program.

(11) Academic Freedom and Faculty Security. The institution shall adopt, adhere to, and distribute to all members of the faculty a statement of academic freedom assuring freedom in teaching, research, and publication. All policies and procedures concerning promotion, tenure, and non-renewal or termination of appointments, including for cause, shall be clearly stated and published in a faculty handbook, adhered to by the institution, and supplied to all faculty. The specific terms and conditions of employment of each faculty member shall be clearly described in a written document to be given to that faculty member, with a copy to be retained by the institution.

(12) Curriculum. The quality, content, and sequence of each course, curriculum, or program of instruction, training, or study shall be appropriate to the purpose of the institution and shall be such that the institution may reasonably and adequately achieve the stated objectives of the course or program. Substantially all of the courses in the areas of specialization required for each degree program shall be offered in organized classes by the institution, provided such courses are appropriate to the level of the institution. The degree level, degree designation, and the designation of the major course of study shall be appropriate to the curriculum offered and shall be accurately listed on the student's diploma and transcript.

(13) General Education.

(A) Each associate or baccalaureate degree program shall contain a general education component consisting of at least 25 percent of the total hours required for graduation from the program.

(B) This component shall be drawn from each of the following areas: Humanities and Fine Arts, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Natural Sciences and Mathematics. It shall include courses to develop skills in written and oral communication and basic computer instruction.

(C) Courses designed to correct deficiencies, remedial courses for associate and baccalaureate programs, and leveling courses for graduate programs, may not count toward general education requirements for the degree.

(D) The applicant institution may arrange to have all or part of the general education component taught by another institution, provided that:

(i) the applicant institution's faculty shall design the general education requirement;

(ii) there shall be a written agreement between the institutions specifying the applicant institutions' general education requirements and the manner in which they will be met by the providing institution;

(iii) at least one-half of the courses shall be offered in organized classes; and

(iv) the providing institution shall be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.

(14) Credit for Work Completed Outside a Collegiate Setting.

(A) An institution awarding collegiate credit for work completed outside a collegiate setting (outside a degree-granting institution accredited by a recognized agency) shall establish and adhere to a systematic method for evaluating that work, shall award credit only in course content which falls within the authorized degree programs of the institution, in an appropriate manner shall relate the credit to the student's current educational goals, and shall subject the institution's process and procedures for evaluating work completed outside a collegiate setting to ongoing review and evaluation by the institution's teaching faculty. To these ends, recognized evaluative examinations such as the advanced placement program (AP) or the college level examination program (CLEP) may be used.

(B) No more than 15 semester credit hours or 23 quarter credit hours in a student's associate or baccalaureate degree program may be based on work completed outside a collegiate setting and validated in the manner set forth in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph. No graduate credit for work completed outside a collegiate setting may be awarded. In no instance may credit be awarded for life experience per se or merely for years of service in a position or job.

(15) Library.

(A) The institution shall have in its possession or direct control, properly catalogued, and readily available to its students and faculty a sufficient quality and variety of library holdings to support adequately its own curriculum. In addition, the institution shall supply access to educational resources appropriate to support its program that are available by electronic delivery, including access to the Internet, and shall make these educational resources available in an active and effective manner.

(B) The institution shall have adequate library facilities for the library holdings, space for study, and workspace for the librarian and library staff.

(C) The librarian shall hold a graduate degree in library science from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.

(D) Arrangements made with other libraries for the use of library materials shall be formalized in writing, the collection shall be validated by the institution to be appropriate for the programs being offered, records of usage by the students shall be kept, and the library shall be reasonably accessible to the students and faculty.

(16) Facilities. The institution shall have adequate space, equipment, and instructional materials to provide education of good quality. Student housing owned, maintained, or approved by the institution, if any, shall be appropriate, safe, and adequate.

(17) Academic Records. Adequate records of each student's academic performance shall be securely and permanently maintained by the institution.

(A) The records for each student shall contain:

(i) student contact and identification information, including address and telephone number;

(ii) records of admission documents, such as high school diploma or GED (if undergraduate) or undergraduate degree (if graduate);

(iii) records of all courses attempted, including grade; completion status of the student, including the diploma, degree or award conferred to the student; and

(iv) any other information typically contained in academic records.

(B) Two copies of said records shall be maintained in secure places.

(C) Transcripts shall be provided upon request by a student, subject to the institution's obligation, if any, to cooperate with the rules and regulations governing state, and federally guaranteed student loans.

(18) Accurate and Fair Representation in Publications, Advertising, and Promotion.

(A) Neither the institution nor its agents or other representatives shall engage in advertising, recruiting, sales, collection, financial credit, or other practices of any type which are false, deceptive, misleading, or unfair. Likewise, all publications, by any medium, shall accurately and fairly represent the institution, its programs, available resources, tuition and fees, and requirements.

(B) The institution shall provide students, prospective students prior to enrollment, and other interested persons with a catalog containing information describing the purpose, length, and objectives of the programs offered by the institution; its schedule of tuition, fees, and all other charges and expenses necessary for completion of the course of study; its cancellation and refund policy; a list of administrative personnel and faculty members, including the degrees held by each person and the institutions awarding those degrees; and such other material facts concerning the institution and the program or course of instruction as are reasonably likely to affect the decision of the student to enroll therein. Any disclosures specified by the Board or defined in the rules shall be included. The cancellation and refund policy of the institution shall be fair and shall be applied equitably.

(C) Upon satisfactory completion of the program of study, the student shall be given appropriate educational credentials indicating the degree level, degree designation, and the designation of the major course of study, and a transcript accurately listing the information typically found on such a document, subject to institutions' obligation, if any, to cooperate with the rules and regulations governing state, and federally guaranteed student loans.

(19) Academic Advising and Counseling. The institution shall provide an effective program of academic advising for all students enrolled. The program shall include orientation to the academic program, academic and personal counseling, career information and planning, placement assistance, and testing services.

(20) Student Handbook. The institution shall establish and adhere to a clear and fair policy regarding due process in disciplinary matters, and publish this policy in a handbook, which shall include other rights and responsibilities of the students. This handbook shall be supplied to each student upon enrollment in the institution.

(21) Health Services. The institution shall provide an effective program of health services and education reflecting the needs of the students. The program shall include instruction on emergency and safety procedures at the institution, including appropriate responses to illness, accident, fire, and crime.

§7.8.Certificate of Registration for Agents of Nonexempt Institutions.

(a) A person desiring to solicit students for enrollment, or to accept funds from Texas students, or otherwise to perform services as an agent of a nonexempt institution pursuant to the provisions of the Texas Education Code, Title 3, Chapter 61, Subchapter G and this subchapter, shall make application for a certificate of registration on forms that will be provided by the Board upon request.

(b) The application shall be accompanied by the fee described in §7.5(c) of this title (relating to Administrative Procedures Related to Certification of Nonexempt Institutions).

(c) Upon request of the Commissioner or the Commissioner's designee, the agent shall provide sufficient evidence of good character.

(d) The agent's certificate of registration shall be issued for a two-year period.

(e) If the Commissioner denies the application for a certificate of registration, or a renewal of the certificate of registration, the applicant shall be notified in writing, and shall be given the reasons for the denial. Additionally, the Commissioner shall notify the institution or institutions which the agent represented or proposed to represent, according to the records of the Board, in the same manner.

(f) At least 60 days, but no more than 120 days, prior to the expiration of an agent's certificate, the agent shall complete and file with the Board an application for renewal, accompanied by the registration fee described in §7.5(c) of this title (relating to Administrative Procedures Related to Certification of Nonexempt Institutions).

(g) If a determination under this section is adverse to a person or institution, it shall become final and binding unless, within 45 days of the receipt of the adverse determination, the person or institution invokes the administrative remedies contained in Chapter 1, subchapter B of this title (relating to Hearings and Appeals).

§7.9.Operation of Branch Campuses, Extension Centers, or Other Off-Campus Units by Exempt Institutions.

(a) Off-Campus Operations.

(1) A nonexempt institution may not operate a branch campus.

(2) An exempt private institution must be approved by the Board to operate a branch campus, extension center, or other off-campus unit in Texas, except as noted in §7.4(a)(2) of this title (relating to Exemptions, Revocation of Exemptions and Certificates of Authorization).

(3) An institution with off-campus offerings that approach the scale of a branch campus, extension center, or other off-campus unit, as defined in §7.3 of this title (relating to Definitions), must submit to the Board a description of its plans, including such information as requested on an application form, to be furnished by the Board upon request.

(4) On receipt of an acceptable application and the application fee for initial review of a branch campus or extension center listed in §7.5(c) of this title (relating to Administrative Procedures Related to Certification of Nonexempt Institutions), the Commissioner may authorize the institution to begin operations at the branch campus, on a temporary basis, pending a formal review and evaluation.

(5) Accreditor's on-site survey. The applicant institution shall inform its recognized accreditor of the institution's initial approval from the Board so that the accreditor may conduct a site visit at the branch campus or extension center to verify compliance with that accreditor's criteria for branch campuses.

(A) The institution shall invite the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) to participate in the on-site survey, to provide representatives to examine the institution, and to supply comments on the branch's ability to meet the standards set forth herein. The institution must inform SACS of the impending visit by its accreditor at least six weeks prior to the visit, to facilitate coordination between the two accreditors.

(B) The institution shall submit the report of the recognized accreditor and SACS' comments to the Board.

(C) After examining the reports of the recognized accreditor and SACS, the Commissioner may issue continuing approval, place conditions on continuing approval, or revoke the Board's temporary approval of the branch campus or extension center.

(D) Final approval by the accreditor must be made within two years of the initial approval by the Commissioner, or the Board's initial approval will lapse.

(E) If the accreditor denies approval, the Board's temporary approval shall immediately expire.

(6) Board's site-visit. If the accreditor does not conduct an on-site survey of the branch campus or extension center, the Board will conduct an on-site survey to determine whether the branch complies with the Board's standards of operations.

(A) The Board will invite SACS to provide representation, to accompany the visiting team, and to supply comments.

(B) The institution shall be assessed the fee for an on-site survey to a branch campus or extension center, as provided in §7.5(c) of this title (relating to Administrative Procedures Related to Certification of Nonexempt Institutions).

(C) The Board's review of the branch campus or extension center's application for Board approval shall follow the procedure described in §7.5(d)(2)-(4) of this title (relating to Administrative Procedures Related to Certification of Nonexempt Institutions), concerning the Board's review of applications for certificates of authority.

(D) The Board shall consider the reports and recommendations of the Commissioner, SACS, and the certification advisory council, and shall make a final determination regarding approval or denial of the branch campus or extension center at a regularly scheduled Board meeting.

(7) The Board requires reviews, including site visits, of the branch campus or extension center according to the schedule used for accreditation of the main campus by the recognized accreditor. The review will be conducted in the same manner as described in paragraph (1) of this subsection. The Commissioner may deny continuing approval of any branch campus or extension site which fails to maintain the conditions and standards on which approval was based.

(8) In the event of any adverse determination made under the authority of this section by the Board or the Commissioner, the institution shall receive notice of the determination, and shall be given the reasons for the denial in writing.

(9) If a determination under this section is adverse to an institution, it shall become final and binding unless, within 45 days of receipt of the adverse determination, the institution invokes the administrative remedies contained in Chapter 1, subchapter B of this title (relating to Hearings and Appeals).

(b) Standards for Off-Campus Operations at Exempt Institutions.

(1) Legal Compliance. The institution shall be maintained and operated in compliance with all applicable laws of the state in which the institution is located, and with all Texas laws affecting its operations in Texas, including the rules and regulations adopted to administer those laws. The institution shall demonstrate that it is exempt from the requirement to hold a certificate of authority to grant degrees by providing documentation from an accreditor recognized by the Board demonstrating that the institution is currently accredited.

(2) Administration of the Branch Campus. There shall be an appropriate and effective administrative structure between the main campus and the off-campus unit. The character, education, and experience in higher education of the local administrators shall be such as may reasonably ensure that the students will receive education consistent with the objectives of the course or program of study. Local faculty must have the same degree of separation and independence from the administration that faculty on the main campus enjoy.

(3) Financial Resources and Stability. The institution shall have a reasonable budget for the off-campus unit and must demonstrate adequate reserves available to the off-campus unit to meet its responsibilities to its Texas students.

(4) Institutional Assessment. Continual and effective assessment, planning, and evaluation of all aspects of the institution shall be conducted to advance and improve the institution. These aspects include, but are not limited to, the academic program of teaching, research, and public service; administration; financial planning and control; student services; facilities and equipment, and auxiliary enterprises.

(5) Student Admission and Remediation.

(A) Upon the admission of a student to any undergraduate program, the institution shall document the student's level of preparation to undertake college level work by obtaining proof of the student's high school graduation or General Educational Development (GED) certification and by assessing the student with appropriate diagnostic tests. If a GED is presented, to be valid, the score must be at or above the passing level set by the Texas Education Agency. The institution shall provide an effective program of remediation for students diagnosed with deficiencies in their preparation for collegiate study.

(B) Upon the admission of a student to any graduate program, the institution shall document that the student is prepared to undertake graduate-level work by obtaining proof that the student holds a baccalaureate degree from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency or a degree from a foreign institution equivalent to a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution. The institution shall follow standard practice in assessing the credentials of students who graduated from foreign institutions.

(6) Faculty Qualifications. The character, education, and experience in higher education of the faculty shall be such as may reasonably ensure that the students will receive an education consistent with the objectives of the course or program of study.

(A) Each faculty member teaching in an academic associate or baccalaureate level degree program shall have at least a master's degree from an institution accredited by a recognized agency with at least 18 graduate semester credit hours in the discipline being taught.

(B) At least 25 percent of the courses in an academic associate or baccalaureate level major shall be taught by faculty members holding doctorates, or other degrees generally recognized as the highest attainable in the discipline being taught from institutions accredited by a recognized agency.

(C) Each faculty member teaching technical or vocational courses in a vocational associate degree program shall have at least an associate degree in the discipline being taught from an institution accredited by a recognized agency and at least three years of direct or closely related experience in the discipline being taught.

(D) Each faculty member teaching general education courses in a vocational associate degree program shall meet the requirements for academic associate faculty listed above.

(E) Graduate level degree programs shall be taught by faculty holding doctorates, or other terminal degrees, in the discipline being taught, from institutions accredited by a recognized agency.

(F) The institution may be justified in allowing a limited number of faculty members to teach classes on the basis of their expertise in the field, but the expertise, and not mere competence, should be well documented. Difficulty in finding qualified faculty does not constitute a basis for an exception.

(7) Faculty Size. There shall be a sufficient number of faculty holding full time teaching appointments who are accessible to the students to ensure continuity and stability of the education program, adequate educational association between students and faculty and among the faculty members, and adequate opportunity for proper preparation for instruction and professional growth by faculty members. Full time faculty on the main campus serving in merely an assessment role at the off-campus unit do not contribute to meeting the standard. There shall be at least one faculty member with a full-time teaching assignment for each program at the off-campus unit.

(8) Academic Freedom and Faculty Security. The institution shall adopt, adhere to, and distribute to all members of the faculty a statement of academic freedom assuring freedom in teaching, research, and publication. All policies and procedures concerning promotion; tenure; and non-renewal or termination of appointments, including for cause, shall be clearly published in a faculty handbook, adhered to by the institution, and supplied to all faculty. The specific terms and conditions of employment of each faculty member shall be clearly described in a written document that shall be given to that faculty member with a copy to be retained by the institution. If there are separate provisions of employment for Texas branch faculty, those differences must be explicitly stated to faculty in writing. If the differences are substantial, there should be a separate faculty handbook for the Texas faculty.

(9) Curriculum. The quality, content, and sequence of each course, curriculum, or program of instruction, training, or study shall be appropriate to the purpose of the institution and shall be such that the institution may reasonably and adequately achieve the stated objectives of the course or program. Substantially all of the courses in the areas of specialization required for each degree program shall be offered in organized classes by the institution, provided such courses are appropriate to the level of the institution. The degree level, degree designation, and the designation of the major course of study shall be appropriate to the curriculum offered and shall be accurately listed on the student's diploma and transcript.

(10) General Education.

(A) Each associate or baccalaureate degree program shall contain a general education component consisting of at least 25 percent of the total hours required for graduation from the program.

(B) This component shall be drawn from each of the following areas: Humanities and Fine Arts, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Natural Sciences and Mathematics. It shall include courses to develop skills in written and oral communication and basic computer instruction.

(C) Courses designed to correct deficiencies, remedial courses for associate and baccalaureate programs, and leveling courses for graduate programs, may not count toward general education requirements for the degree.

(D) The applicant institution may arrange to have all or part of the general education component taught by another institution, provided that:

(i) the applicant institution's faculty shall design the general education requirement;

(ii) there shall be a written agreement between the institutions specifying the applicant institutions' general education requirements and the manner in which they will be met by the providing institution;

(iii) at least one-half of the courses shall be offered in organized classes; and

(iv) the providing institution shall be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.

(11) Credit for Work Completed Outside a Collegiate Setting.

(A) An institution awarding collegiate credit for work completed outside a collegiate setting (outside a degree-granting institution accredited by a recognized agency) shall establish and adhere to a systematic method for evaluating that work, shall award credit only in course content which falls within the authorized degree programs of the institution, in an appropriate manner shall relate the credit to the student's current educational goals, and shall subject the institution's process and procedures for evaluating work completed outside a collegiate setting to ongoing review and evaluation by the institution's teaching faculty. To these ends, recognized evaluative examinations such as the advanced placement program (AP) or the college level examination program (CLEP) may be used.

(B) No more than 30 semester credit hours or 46 quarter credit hours in a student's associate or baccalaureate degree program may be based on work completed outside a collegiate setting and validated in the manner set forth in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph. No graduate credit for work completed outside a collegiate setting may be awarded. In no instance may credit be awarded for life experience per se or merely for years of service in a position or job.

(12) Library.

(A) The institution shall have in its possession or direct control, properly catalogued, and readily available to its students and faculty a sufficient quality and variety of library holdings to support adequately its own curriculum. In addition, the institution shall supply access to educational resources appropriate to support its program that are available by electronic delivery, including access to the Internet, and shall make these educational resources available in an active and effective manner.

(B) The institution shall have adequate library facilities for the library holdings, space for study, and workspace for the librarian and library staff.

(C) The librarian shall hold a graduate degree in library science from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.

(D) Arrangements made with other libraries for the use of library materials shall be formalized in writing, the collection shall be validated by the institution to be appropriate for the programs being offered, records of usage by the students shall be kept, and the library shall be reasonably accessible to the students and faculty.

(13) Academic Records. Adequate records of each student's academic performance shall be securely and permanently maintained by the institution.

(A) The records for each student shall contain:

(i) student contact and identification information, including address and telephone number;

(ii) records of admission documents, such as high school diploma or GED (if undergraduate) or undergraduate degree (if graduate);

(iii) records of all courses attempted, including grade; completion status of the student, including the diploma, degree or award conferred to the student; and

(iv) any other information typically contained in academic records.

(B) Two copies of said records shall be maintained in secure places.

(C) Transcripts shall be provided upon request by a student, subject to the institution's obligation, if any, to cooperate with the rules and regulations governing state, and federally guaranteed student loans.

(14) Facilities. The institution shall have adequate space, equipment, and instructional materials to provide education of good quality. Student housing owned, maintained, or approved by the institution, if any, shall be appropriate, safe, and adequate.

(15) Accurate and Fair Representation in Publications, Advertising, and Promotion.

(A) Neither the institution nor its agents shall engage in advertising, recruiting, sales, collection, financial credit, or other practices of any type which are false, deceptive, misleading, or unfair. Likewise, all publications, by any medium, shall accurately and fairly represent the institution, its programs, available resources, tuition and fees, and requirements.

(B) The institution shall provide students, prospective students prior to enrollment, and other interested persons with a catalog containing information describing the purpose, length, and objectives of the programs offered by the institution; its schedule of tuition, fees, and all other charges and expenses necessary for completion of the course of study; its cancellation and refund policy; a list of administrative personnel and faculty members, including the degrees held by each person and the institutions awarding those degrees; and such other material facts concerning the institution and the program or course of instruction as are reasonably likely to affect the decision of the student to enroll therein. Any disclosures specified by the Board or defined in the rules shall be included. The cancellation and refund policy of the institution shall be fair and applied equitably to the Texas residents.

(C) Any special requirements, or limitations of program offerings, for the students at the Texas branch must be made explicit in writing. This may be accomplished by either a separate section in the catalog or a brochure separate from the catalog. However, if a brochure is produced, the student must also be given the regular catalog.

(D) Upon satisfactory completion of the program of study, the student shall be given appropriate educational credentials indicating the degree level, degree designation, and the designation of the major course of study, and a transcript accurately listing the information typically found on such a document, subject to institutions' obligation, if any, to cooperate with the rules and regulations governing state, and federally guaranteed student loans.

(16) Academic Advising and Counseling. The institution shall provide an effective program of academic advising for all students enrolled. The program shall include orientation to the academic program, academic and personal counseling, career information and planning, placement assistance, and testing services.

(17) Student Handbook. The institution shall establish and adhere to a clear and fair policy regarding due process in disciplinary matters, and publish this policy in a handbook, which shall include other rights and responsibilities of the students. This handbook shall be supplied to each student upon enrollment in the institution.

(18) Health Services. The institution shall provide an effective program of health services and education reflecting the needs of the students. The program shall include instruction on emergency and safety procedures at the institution, including appropriate responses to illness, accident, fire, and crime.

§7.10.Occasional Courses, Changes of Level at Exempt Institutions, and Out-of-State Public Institutions.

(a) Occasional Courses. An exempt private institution may offer occasional degree-credit courses at off-campus sites in Texas without prior approval of the Board. Nonexempt private institutions must request prior Board approval for all off-campus credit courses using forms provided by the Board.

(b) Changes of Level for Exempt Private Institutions. An institution which is exempt by accreditation from a recognized agency and which has established stability by being so accredited for the previous ten years and which wishes to expand to a different degree level not covered by its existing accreditation shall, by submission of a letter to the Commissioner outlining the degree or degrees to be offered at the higher level, be granted state authorization to seek accreditation at the higher level with the recognized accrediting agency. If the recognized accrediting agency does not extend accreditation to the higher level or if the institution has not been accredited for ten or more years, the institution may seek a certificate of authority under the procedures listed in §7.6 of this title (relating to Certificate of Authority).

(c) Out-of-State Public Institutions of Higher Education. An out-of-state public institution of higher education as defined in §7.3 of this title (relating to Definitions) must have approval of the Board to offer a course or a grouping of courses within the State of Texas (Texas Education Code, Chapter 61, Subchapter H). The institution must submit a description of its plans prior to offering courses, including information requested on an application form furnished by the Board. The application will be subject to review under the procedures listed in §7.6 of this title (relating to Certificate of Authority).

§7.11.Revocation of Certificates of Nonexempt Institutions and Agents.

(a) The Commissioner may revoke an institution's certificate of authority to grant degrees at any time if the Commissioner finds that:

(1) Any statement contained in an application for the certificate is untrue;

(2) The institution has failed to maintain the standards of the Board, as described herein, on the basis of which the certificate was granted;

(3) Advertising or representations made on behalf of the institution is deceptive or misleading; or

(4) The institution has violated any provision of this subchapter.

(b) The Commissioner may revoke an agent's certificate of registration at any time if the Commissioner finds that:

(1) Any statement contained in the application is untrue;

(2) The institution represented has had its certificate of authority revoked;

(3) The agent has made false, deceptive, or misleading statements while attempting to solicit residents of this state as students; or

(4) The agent has violated any provision of this subchapter.

(c) Notice of revocation under subsection (a) and (b) of this section shall be provided to the certificate holder and shall contain information regarding the reasons for the revocation.

(d) Notice of revocation under subsection (b)(1), (3), or (4) of this section shall also be given to the institution that the agent represented or purported to represent. Immediately upon receipt of actual knowledge of the agent's violation, or upon receipt of the Commissioner's notice, whichever is earlier, the institution shall make every effort to:

(1) divest the agent of the authority and of the apparent authority to represent the institution;

(2) notify the media through which the agent made the misrepresentations of the actual facts; and

(3) notify all students whose decision to enroll in the institution was affected by the agent's misrepresentation, of the actual facts.

(e) A revocation made pursuant to this section shall become final and binding unless, within 45 days of its receipt of the notice of revocation, the institution or agent invokes the administrative remedies contained in Chapter 1, subchapter B of this title (relating to Hearings and Appeals).

§7.12.Prohibitions Applicable to Nonexempt Institutions.

(a) A person or institution may not:

(1) Grant, award, or purport to offer a degree on behalf of a nonexempt institution unless the institution has been issued a certificate of authority to grant the degree by the Board in accordance with the provisions of the subchapter;

(2) Represent that credits earned or granted by that person or institution are applicable for credit toward a degree to be granted by some other person or institution except under conditions and in a manner specified under §7.6 of this title (relating to Certificate of Authority), and approved by the Board, or represent that credits earned or granted are collegiate in nature, including describing them as "college-level," or at the level of any protected academic term;

(3) Award an honorary degree on behalf of a private postsecondary educational institution subject to the provisions of the subchapter, unless the institution has been awarded a certificate of authority to award such a degree, and, further, unless the degree shall plainly state on its face that it is honorary;

(4) Use the term "college," "university," "seminary," "school of medicine," "medical school," "health science center," "school of law," "law school," or "law center," its abbreviation, or its foreign cognate in the official name or title of a nonexempt private postsecondary educational institution or describe an institution using any of these terms or a term having a similar meaning, except as authorized by the Texas Education Code, §61.313.

(5) Use the term "college," "university," "seminary," "school of medicine," "medical school," "health science center," "school of law," "law school," or "law center," its abbreviation, or its foreign cognate in the official name or title of an educational or training establishment or describe an institution using any of these terms or a term having a similar meaning, except as authorized by the Texas Education Code, §61.313; or

(6) Act as an agent who solicits students for enrollment in a private postsecondary educational institution subject to the provisions of the subchapter without a certificate of registration.

(b) Institutions Located on Federal Land in Texas. An institution that is operating on land in Texas over which the federal government has exclusive jurisdiction shall limit the recruitment of students and advertising of the institution or its programs or courses to the confines of the federal land and to the military or civilian employees and their dependents who work or live on that land. The institution shall not enlist any agent, representative, or institution to recruit or to advertise by any medium, the institution or its programs or courses except on the federal land.

§7.13.Duties upon Dissolution of an Institution.

(a) In the event any institution now or hereafter operating in this state proposes to discontinue its operation, the chief administrative officer, by whatever title designated, of said institution shall cause to be filed with the Board the original or legible true copies of all such academic records of said institution as may be specified by the Commissioner. Such records shall include, without limitation:

(1) such academic information as is customarily required by colleges when considering students for transfer or advanced study; and

(2) the academic records of each former student.

(b) In the event it appears to the Commissioner that any records of an institution that is discontinuing its operations are in danger of being destroyed, secreted, mislaid, or otherwise made unavailable to the Board, the Commissioner may seek, on the Board's behalf, court authority to take possession of such records.

(c) The Board shall maintain or cause to be maintained a permanent file of such records coming into its possession.

§7.14.Procedures Related to the Assessment of Administrative Penalties.

(a) If a person or institution violates a provision of this subchapter, the Commissioner may assess an administrative penalty against the person or institution as provided in §7.14 of this title (relating to Procedures Related to the Assessment of Administrative Penalties).

(b) The Commissioner shall send written notice by certified mail to the person or institution charged with the violation. The notice shall state the facts on which the penalty is based, the amount of the penalty assessed, and the right of the person or institution to request a hearing.

(c) The Commissioner's assessment shall become final and binding unless, within 45 days of receipt of the notice of assessment, the person or institution invokes the administrative remedies contained in Chapter 1, subchapter B of this title (relating to Hearings and Appeals).

(d) If the person or institution does not pay the amount of the penalty within 30 days of the date on which the assessment becomes final, the Commissioner may refer the matter to the attorney general for collection of the penalty, plus court costs and attorney fees.

§7.15.Administrative Penalties.

(a) Any person or institution that is neither exempt nor the holder of a certificate of authority to grant degrees, shall be assessed an administrative penalty of not less than $1,000 or more than $5,000 for, either individually or through an agent or representative:

(1) conferring or offering to confer a degree;

(2) awarding or offering to award credits purported to be applicable toward a degree to be awarded by another person or institution (except under conditions and in a manner specified and approved by the Board);

(3) representing that any credits offered are collegiate in nature subject to the provisions of this subchapter;

(4) Each degree conferred without authority, and each person enrolled in a course or courses at the institution whose decision to enroll was influenced by the misrepresentations, constitutes a separate offense.

(b) Any person or institution that violates §7.12(a)(4) or (5) of this title (relating to Prohibitions Applicable to Nonexempt Institutions) shall be assessed an administrative penalty of not less than $1,000 or more than $3,000.

(c) Any agent who solicits students for enrollment in an institution subject to the provisions of the subchapter without a certificate of registration shall be assessed an administrative penalty of not less than $500 or more than $1,000. Each student solicited without authority constitutes a separate offense.

(d) Any operations which are found to be in violation of the law shall be terminated.

§7.16.Injunctions.

(a) The Commissioner may report possible violations of this subchapter to the attorney general. The attorney general, after investigation and consultation with the Board, shall bring suit to enjoin further violations.

(b) An action for an injunction under this section shall be brought in a district court in Travis County.

§7.17.Civil Penalties.

(a) A person who violates this subchapter or a rule adopted under this subchapter is liable for a civil penalty in addition to any injunctive relief or any other remedy allowed by law. A civil penalty may not exceed $1,000 a day for each violation.

(b) The attorney general, at the request of the Board, shall bring a civil action to collect a civil penalty under this section.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301004

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Chapter 9. PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT IN PUBLIC COMMUNITY/JUNIOR COLLEGE DISTRICTS AND TECHNICAL COLLEGES

Subchapter H. PARTNERSHIPS BETWEEN SECONDARY SCHOOLS AND PUBLIC TWO-YEAR ASSOCIATE DEGREE-GRANTING INSTITUTIONS

19 TAC §9.141, §9.143

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes amendments to §9.141 and §9.143, concerning the general oversight of public two-year colleges (Partnerships Between Secondary Schools and Public Two-Year Associate Degree Granting Institutions). Specifically, the proposed amendments clarify that the focus of the subchapter is on partnerships between secondary schools and public two-year associate degree granting institutions and clarify terminology.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed amendments are in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed amendments are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the amended sections because they will not significantly alter the requirements included in these sections. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed amendments to the rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The amendments are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; Texas Education Code, §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; Texas Education Code, §61.051, which provides the Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and Texas Education Code, §§29.182, 29.184, 61.076(a), 61.851 through 61.855, 130.001(b)(3)-(4), 130.008, 130.090, and 135.06(d), which authorize the Board to adopt policies and rules for public two-year associate degree-granting institutions to enter into agreements with secondary schools to offer courses which grant credit toward the student’s high school academic requirements and/or college-level credit.

The amendments affect Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §§29.182, 29.184, 61.076(a), 61.851 through 61.855, 130.001(b)(3)-(4), 130.008, 130.090, and 135.06(d), §61.0651.

§9.141.Purpose.

(a) The Coordinating Board encourages and supports partnerships between secondary schools and public two-year associate degree-granting institutions, including such initiatives as Tech-Prep and concurrent course credit which allow secondary students to receive both high school and college-level credit for college-level courses.

(b) The purpose of this subchapter shall be to provide rules and regulations for [ public two-year associate degree-granting institutions in ] partnership initiatives with secondary schools that are unique to public two-year associate degree-granting institutions. Rules for partnerships that concern dual/concurrent credit may be found in Chapter 4, Subchapter D of this title (relating to Dual Credit Partnerships Between Secondary Schools and Texas Public Colleges).

§9.143.Types of Partnerships.

(a) (No change.)

(b) Partnerships for Award of Concurrent Course (Dual) Credit. Partnerships between secondary schools and public two-year associate degree-granting institutions in which the latter provide instruction to high school students for immediate award of both high school credit and college certificate and associate degree credit. Rules covering these partnerships may be found in Chapter 4, Subchapter D of this title (relating to Dual Credit Partnerships Between Secondary Schools and Texas Public Colleges).

(c)-(d) (No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301005

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


19 TAC §9.145

(Editor's note: The text of the following section proposed for repeal will not be published. The section may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §9.145, concerning the general oversight of public two-year colleges (Partnerships Between Secondary Schools and Public Two-Year Associate Degree-Granting Institutions). Specifically, §9.145 is proposed for repeal because its provisions will be covered in the proposed new Chapter 4, Subchapter D, contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register .

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed and amended sections because they will not significantly alter the requirements included in these sections. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; Texas Education Code, §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; Texas Education Code, §61.051, which provides the Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and Texas Education Code, §§29.182, 29.184, 61.076(a), 61.851 through 61.855, 130.001(b)(3)-(4), 130.008, 130.090, and 135.06(d), which authorize the Board to adopt policies and rules for public two-year associate degree-granting institutions to enter into agreements with secondary schools to offer courses which grant credit toward the student’s high school academic requirements and/or college-level credit.

The repeal of the rules affect Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §§29.182, 29.184, 61.076(a), 61.851 through 61.855, 130.001(b)(3)-(4), 130.008, 130.090, and 135.06(d), §61.0651.

§9.145.Concurrent Course Credit.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301017

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Chapter 13. FINANCIAL PLANNING

Subchapter E. TUITION REBATES FOR CERTAIN UNDERGRADUATES

19 TAC §13.82

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes amendments to §13.82, concerning the $1000 tuition rebate for certain undergraduates. Specifically, the amendments delete the requirement that eligible students must have attempted all coursework at a Texas public institution of higher education and allow students to be eligible for the rebate if they have attempted no more than 15 hours at institutions other than Texas public institutions of higher education.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be to encourage students to complete their undergraduate education within a few courses outside of their degree plans. There is no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed rule may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The amendments are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §54.0065(i), which requires the Board to adopt rules for the administration of the tuition rebate program.

The amendments affect Texas Education Code, §54.0065.

§13.82.Eligible Students.

To be eligible for rebates under this program, students must meet all of the following conditions:

(1)-(2) (No change.)

(3) They must have been a resident of Texas, [ must have attempted all coursework at a Texas public institution of higher education, ] and have been entitled to pay resident tuition at all times while pursuing the degree, [ and ]

(4) They must have attempted no more than 15 hours at institutions other than Texas public institutions of higher education, and

(5) [ (4) ] They must have attempted no more than three hours in excess of the minimum number of semester credit hours required to complete the degree under the catalog under which they were graduated. Hours attempted include transfer credits, course credit earned exclusively by examination, courses [ that are ] dropped after the official census date, for-credit developmental courses, optional internship and cooperative education courses, and repeated courses. Courses dropped for reasons that are determined by the institution to be totally beyond the control of the student shall not be counted. For students concurrently earning a baccalaureate degree and a Texas teaching certificate, required teacher education courses shall not be counted to the extent that they are over and above the free electives allowed in the baccalaureate degree program.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301006

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter G. PROCEDURES FOR CERTIFICATION OF ADEQUACY OF FUNDING

19 TAC §§13.120 - 13.125

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§13.120-13.125, concerning certification of adequacy of financing for new degree programs and administrative changes at public universities and health-related institutions. Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal are being moved and renumbered as proposed rules being published in this issue of the Texas Register as part of the reorganization of Board rules.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit anticipated will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

The repeal of the rules affect Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code, §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§13.120.Purpose.

§13.121.Authority.

§13.122.Statement on Funding.

§13.123.Identification of Sources of Funds.

§13.124.Statement of Effect on Existing Programs.

§13.125.Format and Transmission of Certification Statements.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301007

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter H. PROCEDURES AND CRITERIA FOR FUNDING OF FAMILY PRACTICE RESIDENCY PROGRAMS

19 TAC §§13.140 - 13.146

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§13.140-13.146, concerning family practice residency program. Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal are being renumbered and amended for clarification as proposed rules being published in this issue of the Texas Register as part of the reorganization of Board rules.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit anticipated will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

The proposed repeal of the rules affect Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§13.140.Types of Grants.

§13.141.Requirements for a Family Practice Residency Operational Grant.

§13.142.Requirements for a Support Grant.

§13.143.Requirements for a Rural Rotations Reimbursement Grant.

§13.144.Requirements for a Public Health Rotation Reimbursement Grant.

§13.145.Review of Family Practice Residency Operational Grant Applications and Support Grant Applications.

§13.146.Amount of Family Practice Operational Grants and Support Grants.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301008

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter I. PROCEDURES AND CRITERIA FOR FUNDING GRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS

19 TAC §§13.160 - 13.164

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§13.160-13.164, concerning graduate medical education program. Proposals of new rules concerning substantially the same matters are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register. Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal are being renumbered and amended for clarification as proposed rules being published in this issue of the Texas Register as part of the reorganization of Board rules.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit anticipated will be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting public institutions of higher education. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections because the proposed new rules will not alter the requirements included in the rules proposed for repeal. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of the rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal of the rules is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education; and §61.0651, which charges the Board to adopt and recommend management policies applicable to institutions of higher education in relation to management of human resources and physical plants.

The proposed repeal of the rules affect Texas Education Code, §61.002; Texas Education Code §61.051; and Texas Education Code, §61.0651.

§13.160.Purpose.

§13.161.Grants or Formula Distributions.

§13.162.Eligibility.

§13.163.Award of Funds.

§13.164.Advisory Committee.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301009

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Chapter 17. CAMPUS PLANNING

Subchapter A. GENERAL PROVISIONS

19 TAC §17.4

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes amendments to §§17.4(b)(7), 17.4(d)(2), 17.4(d)(6), and 17.4(h)(2), concerning approval of projects. Specifically, these amendments would permit the Commissioner to approve or evaluate new construction projects that add E&G space and increase the thresholds for Committee and Board approval or evaluation of projects that add E&G space.

Dr. Deborah L. Greene, Assistant Commissioner for Finance, Campus Planning, and Research has determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Greene has also determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering the section will be more efficient Board meetings and board operations related to Campus Planning activities. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons 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 to Dr. Nancy Ellen Soteriou, Acting Director, Campus Planning, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711 email: Nancy.Soteriou@thecb.state.tx.us.

The amendments are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with the authority to adopt rules. This amendment is also proposed under Texas Education Code, §61.0572 which provides the Coordinating Board the authority to develop and publish standards, rules, and regulations to guide the institutions and agencies of higher education in making application for the approval of new construction and major repair and rehabilitation of all buildings and facilities regardless of proposed use.

The amendments affect Texas Education Code, §61.0572.

§17.4.Delegation of Authority.

(a) (No change.)

(b) The Board authorizes the Commissioner to review or approve the following types of projects on certification by the proposing institution’s governing board that Board-approved criteria are met:

(1)-(6) (No change.)

(7) Construction of new E&G space having a value of $1 million to $5 million.

(c) (No change.)

(d) The Coordinating Board authorizes the Campus Planning Committee to approve the following types of projects:

(1) (No change.)

(2) Construction of new E&G space having a value of greater than $5 million, but less than $10 million [ $1 million to $5 million ].

(3)-(5) (No change.)

(6) Any new construction, major R&R, or property acquisition submitted by a system that only affects the system, and not a member institution.

(e)-(g) (No change.)

(h) The following types of projects shall be approved by the Board:

(1) (No change.)

(2) Construction of new E&G space having a value $10 million or greater [ over $5 million. ]

(3)-(4) (No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301011

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


19 TAC §17.5

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes an amendment to §17.5(b)(2) concerning submission of projects. Specifically, this amendment would decrease the number of days that projects must be submitted to the Coordinating Board at the regularly scheduled Board meeting.

Dr. Deborah L. Greene, Assistant Commissioner for Finance, Campus Planning, and Research has determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Greene has also determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering the section will be more efficient Board meetings and board operations related to Campus Planning activities. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed amendment may be submitted to Dr. Nancy Ellen Soteriou, Acting Director, Campus Planning, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711 email: Nancy.Soteriou@thecb.state.tx.us.

The amendment is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with the authority to adopt rules. This amendment is also proposed under Texas Education Code, §61.0572 which provides the Coordinating Board the authority to develop and publish standards, rules, and regulations to guide the institutions and agencies of higher education in making application for the approval of new construction and major repair and rehabilitation of all buildings and facilities regardless of proposed use.

The amendment affects Texas Education Code, §61.0572.

§17.5.Application Procedures.

(a) (No change.)

(b) Project submission schedule:

(1) (No change.)

(2) Projects to be considered by the Campus Planning Committee or the Board shall be submitted at least 70 [ 60 ] days prior to the regularly scheduled Board meeting at which consideration is desired.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301010

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter B. NEW CONSTRUCTION AND REPAIR AND REHABILITATION PROJECTS

19 TAC §17.10

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes amendments to §17.10(c) and §17.10(d) of Board rules concerning evaluation considerations. Specifically, this amendment would correct threshold language to be consistent with thresholds established in §17.4(a).

Dr. Deborah L. Greene, Assistant Commissioner for Finance, Campus Planning, and Research has determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Greene has also determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering the section will be more efficient Board meetings and board operations related to Campus Planning activities. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed amendments to the rule may be submitted to Dr. Nancy Ellen Soteriou, Acting Director, Campus Planning, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711 email: Nancy.Soteriou@thecb.state.tx.us.

The amendments are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with the authority to adopt rules. These amendments are also proposed under Texas Education Code, §61.0572 which provides the Coordinating Board the authority to develop and publish standards, rules, and regulations to guide the institutions and agencies of higher education in making application for the approval of new construction and major repair and rehabilitation of all buildings and facilities regardless of proposed use.

The amendments affect Texas Education Code, §61.0572.

§17.10.Evaluation Considerations.

(a)-(b) (No change.)

(c) The Board's consideration and determination shall be limited to the purpose for which the new or remodeled buildings are to be used to assure conformity with approved space utilization standards and the institution's approved programs and role and mission if the cost of the project is not more than $2,000,000 for remodeled buildings and $1,000,000 for new buildings or additions.

(d) The Board shall consider the purpose for which the new or remodeled buildings are to be used and cost factors and the financial implications of the project to the state if the total cost is in excess of $2,000,000 for remodeled buildings and $1,000,000 for new buildings or additions.

(e)-(f) (No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301012

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter E. INSTITUTIONAL REPORTING

19 TAC §17.40

(Editor's note: The text of the following section proposed for repeal will not be published. The section may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §17.40. Specifically, the repeal of this section would clarify reporting requirements of the Master Plans and require institutions to provide an annual report on any approved project to the Coordinating Board.

Dr. Deborah L. Greene, Assistant Commissioner for Finance, Campus Planning, and Research has determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Greene has also determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering the section will be more efficient Board meetings and board operations related to Campus Planning activities. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the repeal of the rule may be submitted to Dr. Nancy Ellen Soteriou, Acting Director, Campus Planning, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711 email: Nancy.Soteriou@thecb.state.tx.us.

The rule is being repealed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with the authority to adopt rules. This new rule is also proposed under Texas Education Code, §61.0572 which provides the Coordinating Board the authority to develop and publish standards, rules, and regulations to guide the institutions and agencies of higher education in making application for the approval of new construction and major repair and rehabilitation of all buildings and facilities regardless of proposed use.

The repeal of the rule affects Texas Education Code, §61.0572.

§17.40.Required Reports.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301014

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


19 TAC §17.40

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §17.40. Specifically, this new rule would clarify reporting requirements of the Master Plans and require institutions to provide an annual report on any approved project to the Coordinating Board.

Dr. Deborah L. Greene, Assistant Commissioner for Finance, Campus Planning, and Research has determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Greene has also determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering the section will be more efficient Board meetings and board operations related to Campus Planning activities. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed new rule may be submitted to Dr. Nancy Ellen Soteriou, Acting Director, Campus Planning, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711 email: Nancy.Soteriou@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new rule is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with the authority to adopt rules. This new rule is also proposed under Texas Education Code, §61.0572 which provides the Coordinating Board the authority to develop and publish standards, rules, and regulations to guide the institutions and agencies of higher education in making application for the approval of new construction and major repair and rehabilitation of all buildings and facilities regardless of proposed use.

The new rule affects Texas Education Code, §61.0572.

§17.40.Required Reports.

All general academic institutions, technical state colleges, health-related institutions, Lamar State Colleges, and Texas A&M University System service agencies are required to submit current data to the Coordinating Board for the following reports.

(1) Campus Master Plans

(A) The Coordinating Board shall consider projects that are included in campus master plan reports. A project that is not included in the master plan may be considered if the Board determines that the institution, even with careful planning, could not reasonably have foreseen the project need.

(B) Campus Master Plan (MP1) shall include:

(i) any proposed new construction greater than $250,000, repair and rehabilitation greater than $1,000,000, information resource project greater than $1,000,000, and property purchase for any amount that may be submitted within the next five years to the Coordinating Board;

(ii) the funding source for any planned project identified in paragraph (1)(B)(i) of this subsection that is not exempt from Coordinating Board review; and

(iii) a description of the proposals which the institution plans to finance with the Higher Education Assistance Fund or Permanent University Fund (Article VII, §§17 or 18, of the Texas Constitution.

(C) On or before July 1 of every other year, beginning in 2002, an institution must submit an update to its Campus Master Plan (MP1) on file with the Coordinating Board.

(D) Campus Master Plan (MP2) shall include a list of an institution’s facilities deferred maintenance needs that cost greater than $10,000.

(E) Campus Master Plan (MP3) shall include amount the institution plans to designate each fiscal year for the next five years to address the deferred maintenance listed in paragraph (1)(D) of this subsection.

(F) Campus Master Plan (MP4) shall include amount of deferred maintenance addressed in previous fiscal year.

(G) On October 15 of each year, institutions must submit an update to its Campus Master Plans (MP2), (MP3), and (MP4) on file at the Coordinating Board.

(2) Reports as required by the Coordinating Board’s Educational Data Center.

(3) Facilities inventory of building and rooms occupied or in the control of an institution in a format specified by the Board. The inventory shall be updated on an on-going basis and is subject to periodic audits.

(4) Annually, from the date of approval, institutions shall report the status of an approved project to the Coordinating Board. The report shall include, but is not limited to: actual project cost; actual building cost; actual GSF; actual NASF; actual E&G NASF; and actual source(s) of funding. Reporting to the Coordinating Board on an annual basis shall cease after the construction project is placed into service or the property acquisition is consummated.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301013

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Chapter 21. STUDENT SERVICES

Subchapter C. HINSON-HAZLEWOOD COLLEGE STUDENT LOAN PROGRAM FOR ALL LOANS WHICH ARE SUBJECT TO THE PROVISIONS OF THE FEDERAL FAMILY EDUCATION LOAN PROGRAM, THE COLLEGE ACCESS LOAN PROGRAM, THE HEALTH EDUCATION ASSISTANCE LOAN PROGRAM, AND THE HEALTH EDUCATION LOAN PROGRAM

19 TAC §§21.51 - 21.65

(Editor's note: The text of the following sections proposed for repeal will not be published. The sections may be examined in the offices of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes the repeal of §§21.51 - 21.65 concerning the Hinson-Hazlewood Loan Program. New §§21.51 - 21.64 concerning the Hinson-Hazlewood Loan Program are contemporaneously published in this issue of the Texas Register . Specifically, the rules proposed for repeal cover the administration of the Hinson-Hazlewood Loan Program. This program includes the Federal Family Education Loan Program, the College Access Loan Program, the Health Education Assistance Loan Program, and the Health Education Loan Program. Board staff wished to provide better organization and to increase clarity. The proposed rewrite contains new and revised definitions, reorganizes the subchapter in a more logical sequence, updates references to federal and state law, and clarifies the authority of the Board to administer this program. The rules proposed for enactment contain very few departures from current Board practice.

Ms. Lois Hollis, Assistant Commissioner for Student Services, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the repealed rules..

Ms. Hollis, has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed repeal is in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting student borrowers under the Hinson-Hazlewood Loan Program. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs. There is no anticipated impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed repeal of rules may be submitted to Lois Hollis, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711, (512) 427-6465, Lois.Hollis@thecb.state.tx.us.

The repeal is proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority and Texas Education Code, §52.01, which provides the Board with the authority to administer the student loan program.

The repeal affects Texas Education Code, §§52.01 - 52.56.

§21.51.Administration.

§21.52.Delegation of Powers and Duties.

§21.53.Definitions.

§21.54.Governing Provisions of Loans.

§21.55.Eligible Institution.

§21.56.Qualifications for Loans.

§21.57.Loan Limits.

§21.58.Identification of Student Records.

§21.59.Borrower Information.

§21.60.Disbursements to Students.

§21.61.Loan Origination Fees and Insurance Premiums.

§21.62.Loan Interest.

§21.63.Deceased or Disabled Borrowers.

§21.64.Repayment of Loans.

§21.65.Enforcement of Collection.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301016

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162


Subchapter C. HINSON-HAZLEWOOD COLLEGE STUDENT LOAN PROGRAM

19 TAC §§21.51 - 21.64

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes new §§21.51. - 21.64 concerning the Hinson-Hazlewood Loan Program. Existing §§21.51 - 21.65, which these new sections replace, are contemporaneously proposed for repeal in this issue of the Texas Register . Specifically, these new sections cover the administration of the Hinson-Hazlewood Loan Program. This program includes the Federal Family Education Loan Program, the College Access Loan Program, the Health Education Assistance Loan Program, and the Health Education Loan Program. To provide better organization and increase clarity, the proposed new sections contain new and revised definitions, reorganize the subchapter in a more logical sequence, update references to federal and state law, and clarify the authority of the Board to administer this program. The new sections allow students who are enrolled at least half-time at an institution to be eligible for a loan through the program, simplify the information that needs to be provided by borrowers for references, eliminate the requirement of a cosigner if the borrower has received a favorable evaluation of his/her credit report, and delegate to the Commissioner of Higher Education the authority to set origination fees, loan limits, and the interest rates for the College Access Loan Program and the Health Education Loan Program.

Ms. Lois Hollis, Assistant Commissioner for Student Services, has determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed sections are in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Ms. Hollis, has also determined that for each year of the first five years the proposed sections are in effect, the public benefit would be the improved organization and clarity of rules affecting student borrowers under the Hinson-Hazlewood Loan Program. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the repealed sections. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the new rules may be submitted to Lois Hollis, P. O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711, (512) 427-6465, Lois.Hollis@thecb.state.tx.us.

The new sections are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority and Texas Education Code, §52.01, which provides the Board with the authority to administer the student loan program.

The new rules affect Texas Education Code, §§52.01 - 52.56.

§21.51.Purpose.

This subchapter establishes rules relating to the administration of several student loan programs that have been authorized by the Texas Legislature to improve and increase access to higher education in the State of Texas.

§21.52.Authority.

Unless otherwise noted in a section, the authority for these provisions is provided by the Texas Education Code, §§52.31 - 52.40.

§21.53.Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(1) Auxiliary Fund--The Student Loan Auxiliary Fund authorized in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 52, §§52.81-52.90.

(2) Board--The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(3) CAL or CALP--College Access Loan Program.

(4) Commissioner--The Commissioner of Higher Education.

(5) Cosigner / Accommodation Party--One who signs a student loan promissory note and thereby assumes liability for the debt and all fees and expenses associated with the note, who is not a direct beneficiary of the proceeds of the loan.

(6) Default--The failure of a borrower and cosigner, if any, to make loan installment payments when due for a total of 180 days for CAL and HELP loans and 270 days for FFELP and HEAL loans.

(7) Deferment--Any period during which a borrower, upon adequate showing of entitlement under the terms of the particular lending program, shall be eligible to suspend payments.

(8) FFELP--The Federal Family Education Loan Program, formerly the Guaranteed Student Loan Program, authorized by the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, 20 U.S.C. §§1071 - 1087-4. Included in the FFELP are Federal Stafford Loans and Federal Supplemental Loans for Students.

(9) Forbearance--Discretionary permission from the Commissioner or his designees that allows a borrower to cease payments temporarily, or allows an extension of time for making payments, or temporarily reduces the payment amount from the amount that was previously scheduled.

(10) FSL--The Robert T. Stafford Federal Student Loan Program to be known as "Federal Stafford Loans," formerly known as Stafford Loans and Guaranteed Student Loans, which included Federal Insured Student Loans. FSLs are made under provisions of the Federal Family Education Loan Program; but, for purposes of this subchapter, the acronym FSL will designate those rules specific to FSL.

(11) FSLS--Federal Supplemental Loans for Students, formerly known as Supplemental Loans for Students and Auxiliary Loans for Students. The FSLS are made under provisions of the Federal Family Education Loan Program; but, for purposes of this subchapter, the acronym FSLS will designate those rules specific to FSLS.

(12) Fund--The Texas Opportunity Plan Fund as created by the Constitution of the State of Texas, Article III, 50b; the Student Loan Revenue Bond Fund authorized in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 56, Subchapter H; and/or the Student Loan Auxiliary Fund, authorized in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 52, Subchapter F.

(13) HEAL or HEALP--Health Education Assistance Loan Program authorized by the Public Health Service Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. Sections 292 - 292y.

(14) HELP--Health Education Loan Program.

(15) Hinson-Hazlewood College Student Loan Program, or Program--The commonly used name for the Board program which provides and administers FFELP, CAL, HEAL, and HELP student loans under the authority of Texas Education Code, §§52.31 - 52.40.

(16) Hinson-Hazlewood College Student Loan Program Officer--A full-time administrative official of an institution who will act as the Board's on-campus agent.

(17) Proprietary Institution of Higher Education--An educational institution that is not a public or private nonprofit educational institution and is approved by the U.S. Secretary of Education under the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, and the regulations found in 34 C.F.R. §600.5.

(18) Resident of Texas--Any person who meets the requirements to be allowed to pay Texas resident tuition rates at institutions of higher education, as specified in Texas Education Code, Chapter 54, and Board rules found in §§21.21 - 21.27 of this title (relating to Determination of Residence Status).

(19) Revenue Bond Fund--The Student Loan Revenue Bond Fund, authorized in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 56, Subchapter H.

§21.54.Eligibility of Institutions.

(a) Institutions of Higher Education as defined in Texas Education Code, §61.003(8), and Private or Independent Institutions of Higher Education as defined in Texas Education Code, §61.003(15), shall be eligible to participate in the Program.

(b) Each eligible institution shall designate a full-time administrative official of the institution who will act as the Board's on-campus agent. This officer shall certify all institutional transactions and activities with respect to the fund, and shall be responsible for all records and reports reflecting the transactions with respect to the Fund. The Hinson-Hazlewood College Student Loan Program Officer may authorize other student financial aid officials at the institution to certify Hinson-Hazlewood College Student Loan Program applications.

(c) The Board shall provide a roster of its borrowers to each eligible institution prior to the end of each enrollment period. Within a reasonable period after the institution receives the roster, the Office of the Registrar shall identify all records of each student, and the institution shall supply information on each student borrower to the Board on a form prescribed by the Commissioner.

§21.55.Eligibility of Students.

The Commissioner may authorize, or cause to be authorized, Hinson-Hazlewood College Student Loans to students at any eligible institution which certifies that the student meets program qualifications, if the student:

(1) is a resident of Texas as defined in these regulations;

(2) has been accepted for regular, non-probationary enrollment at an eligible institution and is adjudged by the institution to have the ability to benefit from the instruction or training to be provided; or, in the case of a student already attending such institution, is in good standing and is making satisfactory progress toward his or her educational goals as determined by the institution;

(3) is enrolled in at least one half of the normal full-time course workload as determined by the institution;

(4) has provided the Board with a statement of the estimated cost of attendance at the institution for that student;

(5) has insufficient resources to finance his or her education;

(6) has provided information on two references who live at separate addresses, are gainfully employed, and are expected to know the student's current address at all times throughout the life of the loan;

(7) has signed a promissory note acknowledging his or her obligations and responsibilities to the fund; and, for CAL and HELP, if married, has secured the signature of his or her spouse;

(8) for CALP loans, has received a favorable evaluation of his/her credit report or has obtained the notarized signature of a qualified cosigner/accommodation party;

(9) for FSLP, if attending a Proprietary Institution of Higher Education, is unable to obtain an FSL through a commercial lender and the Proprietary Institution of Higher Education that the student attends:

(A) is certified by the Texas Education Agency under provisions of the Texas Proprietary School Act (Texas Education Code, Chapter 32), licensed by the Texas Cosmetology Commission, licensed by the Texas State Board of Barber Examiners, or certified to grant or award degrees by the board under provisions of the Texas Education Code, Chapter 61, Subchapter G;

(B) is an institution which has its parent campus within the State of Texas;

(C) is not owned by the owner of another postsecondary institution outside of Texas whose default rate is 15 percent or greater;

(D) has been eligible for, and has participated in, the FFELP during the most recent 18 consecutive months;

(E) does not employ recruiters of students on a commission basis;

(F) does not employ the owner(s) or anyone related to the owner(s) by blood or marriage as student financial aid administrators; and

(G) has a good credit rating as determined by the Board.

§21.56.Requirements of Cosigner/Accommodation Party.

(a) A cosigner/accommodation party shall:

(1) be at least 21 years of age or older;

(2) have a regular source of income; and

(3) have received a favorable evaluation of his/her credit report.

(b) For CAL and HELP, the spouse of any married student must sign the promissory note, and may be held jointly and severally liable with the borrower in case of a default, but a spouse may not act as the cosigner/accommodation party for the student.

(c) CAL or HELP cosigners/ accommodation parties are guarantors of payment and not of collection; it is not necessary for the Board to demonstrate that the borrower is insolvent before it may pursue collection against the cosigner/ accommodation party.

§21.57.Notice to Borrowers.

On the application, the Board shall provide information regarding the rights and responsibilities of the borrower of a Hinson-Hazlewood College Student Loan. The borrower shall certify on the application that he or she has read and understood his or her responsibilities.

§21.58.Loan Limits.

(a) Amount of Loan. The amount of loan shall not exceed the amount that the student needs in order to meet reasonable expenses as a student.

(b) Annual and Aggregate Loan Limit. The maximum annual and aggregate loan amounts allowed for any eligible student shall be determined from time to time by the Commissioner.

§21.59.Loan Origination Fees.

(a) Each FSL student borrower shall pay an origination fee in an amount that is determined from time to time by the United States Department of Education. The fee is deducted from the loan proceeds at the time of disbursement.

(b) Each CAL and HELP student borrower shall pay an origination fee in an amount that is determined from time to time by the Commissioner. The fee is deducted from the loan proceeds at the time of disbursement.

§21.60.Loan Interest.

(a) FSL. The interest rate charged for loans shall be determined from time to time by the Commissioner, shall be simple interest, and shall accrue on the outstanding principal from the date of disbursement. FSLs made pursuant to this subchapter are eligible for interest subsidy and interest is charged to the borrower in accordance with the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, 20 U.S.C. §§1071 - 1087-4, and 34 Code of Federal Regulations Part 682.

(b) CALP. The interest rate charged for loans shall be set from time to time by the Commissioner, shall be simple interest, and shall begin to accrue on the outstanding principal from the date of disbursement. These loans are not eligible for interest subsidy.

(c) HEAL. The interest rate charged for loans shall be determined from time to time by the Commissioner, and interest shall accrue on the outstanding principal from the date of disbursement.

(d) HELP. The interest rate charged for loans shall be determined from time to time by the Commissioner, and interest shall accrue on the outstanding principal.

§21.61.Disbursements to Students.

(a) No disbursement shall be made to any student until he or she has executed a promissory note payable to the program for the full amount of any loan plus interest and other authorized fees. In addition;

(1) for CAL, HEAL, and HELP loans, if a borrower is married, the borrower's spouse must sign the application for the loan and the promissory note, if separate from the application; and

(2) for CAL loans, a co-signer's signature may be also required in accordance with the provisions of §21.55(8) of this title (relating to Eligibility of Students).

(b) The original of such executed promissory note shall be forwarded to the Board immediately.

(c) For the purposes of any promissory note executed by a borrower, the defense that he or she was a minor at the time he or she executed a note shall not be available to him or her in any action arising on the note.

(d) All loan warrants must be negotiated on or before the 120th day after the loan warrant issue date.

§21.62.Repayment of Loans.

(a) Period of loan repayment.

(1) FSL. All loans shall be repaid in accordance with the statutes and regulations governing the Federal Family Education Loan Program.

(2) FSLS. All loans shall be repaid in accordance with the statutes and regulations governing the Federal Family Education Loan Program.

(3) CAL.

(A) All loans extended under this program to any borrower shall be placed by the Board into an "account," with the full amount of principal, interest, and any fees and costs that accrue over the life of the loan to be repaid in monthly installments which shall be calculated to repay the account over a period of not less than 5 years and not more than 10 years from the beginning of the repayment period, unless the minimum monthly payment amount required by subsection (b) of this section, would repay the loan within a shorter period of time.

(B) Current interest on loans made from the revenue bond fund is due and payable no less frequently than quarterly for the life of the loan.

(C) In every case, the principal amount and all charges on a particular note must be repaid over no longer period than that prescribed by Chapter 52 of the Texas Education Code, as it is amended from time to time.

(D) The repayment period shall begin no earlier than six months after the date on which the student ceases to carry, at an eligible institution, at least one half the normal full-time course load as determined by the institution.

(4) HEAL. All loans shall be repaid in accordance with the statutes and regulations governing the Health Education Assistance Loan Program, authorized by the Public Health Service Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. §§292 - 292y.

(5) HELP. All loans extended under this program by the Board shall be repaid in the manner and under the statutes, rules and guidelines governing HEALP.

(b) Minimum repayment amount.

(1) FSL. The Board shall provide a repayment schedule in which all of the FSL notes extended by the Board to a borrower are treated as an account, and the repayment amount shall be calculated to repay the account over the maximum authorized period. In no case will the minimum annual repayment on the account be less than $600.

(2) FSLS. The Board shall provide a repayment schedule in which all of the FSLS notes extended by the Board to a borrower are treated as an account, and the repayment amount shall be calculated to repay the account over the maximum authorized period. In no case will the minimum annual repayment on the account be less than $600.

(3) CAL. The Board shall provide a repayment schedule in which all of the CAL notes extended by the Board to a borrower are treated as an account, and the repayment amount shall be calculated to repay the account over the maximum authorized period. In no case will the minimum annual repayment on the account be less than $600.

(4) HEAL. The Board shall provide a repayment schedule in which all of the HEAL notes extended by the Board to a borrower are treated as an account, and the repayment amount shall be calculated to repay the account over the maximum authorized period. The minimum annual repayment shall not be less than the amount provided by 42 USCS 292(d).

(5) HELP. The Board shall provide a repayment schedule in which all of the HEAL notes extended by the Board to a borrower are treated as an account, and the repayment amount shall be calculated to repay the account over the maximum authorized period. The minimum annual repayment shall not be less than the amount that would have been provided by 42 U.S.C.S. §292(d), if the loan had been extended by the HEAL program.

(c) Prepayment. Any loans made through the program may be prepaid without penalty.

(d) Deferments.

(1) The Commissioner shall grant deferments of loan repayment for FSL and FSLS loans as required by The Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, 20 U.S.C. §§1071 - 1087-4.

(2) The Commissioner shall grant deferments of loan repayment for HEAL and HELP loans in the manner and under the circumstances provided for the HEAL loans in the Public Health Service Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. §§292 - 292y.

(3) Interest on non-subsidized loans (FSLS, HEAL, and HELP) which accrues during authorized deferment periods shall be charged to the borrower. Interest on FSLs which accrues during authorized deferment periods shall be charged to the United States Department of Education, unless the borrower has lost eligibility for federal interest subsidy benefits as described in federal law.

(4) Authorized deferments for FSL and FSLS loans shall extend the maximum repayment period.

(5) Authorized deferments for HEAL and HELP loans shall not extend the maximum repayment period.

(6) Deferments are available to any borrower whose account is not in default and who makes an adequate showing of entitlement. A borrower whose account is in default is not eligible for a deferment.

(e) Forbearance. The Commissioner may grant periods of forbearance for unusual financial hardship on any account that is held by the Board if the borrower presents the Commissioner or his designee with a writing setting forth the reasons therefore, and the Commissioner or his designee determines that the borrower's account history justifies such action. Borrowers of federally insured loans may have rights to certain additional types of forbearances under the applicable program's statutes and rules.

(f) Late charges. A charge of five percent (5%) of the scheduled monthly payment or five dollars ($5.00), whichever is less, shall be assessed if the past due amount is not received within 20 days of the scheduled due date. These charges shall be collected for late payment of all sums due and payable under the Hinson-Hazlewood Loan Program and shall be collected out of the first payments made in excess of interest charges then due.

(g) Collection charges. In the case of delinquent accounts, the Commissioner may authorize the assessment of charges necessary to collect the loan which may include court costs fees, attorney fees, skip-trace fees, and long-distance telephone charges.

(h) Application of payments. Each payment that is received from the borrower or cosigner, to be credited to his/ her account, will be applied in the following manner:

(1) First, to any outstanding late charges and collection costs that may have accrued to the account.

(2) Next, to all interest that is outstanding on the account.

(3) Next, to principal of the earliest dated note in the account.

§21.63.Deceased or Disabled Borrowers.

(a) All loans through the Program are discharged in the event of death or in the event of permanent and total disability of the borrower.

(b) Verification of death and determination of permanent and total disability of a borrower through the FSL, FSLS, and CAL programs shall be made in accordance with the governing provisions of the FSL program.

(c) Verification of death or determination of permanent and total disability of a borrower through the HEAL and HELP programs shall be made in accordance with the governing provisions of the HEAL program.

(d) The final verification of death and determination of permanent and total disability of a borrower shall be made by the appropriate official for each loan program as follows:

(1) for FSL, the United States Secretary of Education;

(2) for FSLS, the United States Secretary of Education;

(3) for CAL, the Commissioner;

(4) for HEAL, the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services; and

(5) for HELP, the Commissioner.

(e) Upon final verification of the death or determination of permanent and total disability of a borrower, the liability of the cosigner/accommodation party for that borrower shall be discharged.

§21.64.Enforcement of Collection.

(a) Suit. When any CAL or HELP borrower or cosigner fails or refuses to make as many as five monthly payments due in accordance with an executed note, the full amount of remaining principal, accrued interest and other charges shall become due and payable immediately. When as many as six payments have been missed, the loan will be considered to be in default, and the Office of the Attorney General, at the request of the Commissioner, may file suit for the outstanding balance.

(b) When a borrower defaults on a FSL or FSLS account, the Board may file a default claim with the appropriate guarantor. When a borrower defaults on a HEAL account, the Board may file suit in order to perfect a default claim with the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services. Repayment amounts and prerogatives may be radically different after an account has been assigned to a guarantor.

(c) Bar on Student Records and Re-registration. All records of each student who is a borrower under this Subchapter shall be so identified in the Office of the Registrar at each eligible institution. An official certified copy of such records may be released, and/or the student may re-register in the institution only if the Hinson-Hazlewood College Student Loan Program officer at the institution certifies to the registrar that the borrower's account is in good condition. Exceptions to this section must be approved by the Commissioner in advance of release of an official certified copy of the records or re-registration.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 11, 2003.

TRD-200301015

Jan Greenberg

General Counsel

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Proposed date of adoption: April 24, 2003

For further information, please call: (512) 427-6162