Committee approves multiple degree programs, Carl D. Perkins funds and rule changes

The Committee on Academic and Workforce Success of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board approved a package of items on April 23 that included new degree programs from several institutions, authorization to accept federal Carl D. Perkins career and technical education funds, the issuance of a second certificate of authority for one private health school, and a set of rule changes placed on the consent calendar.

Why it matters: The approvals expand postsecondary program capacity in health care, psychology and workforce-technical fields and release federal Perkins funds intended to support career and technical education and dual-credit partnerships. Several of the program proposals cited state workforce projections and plans to seek national accreditation as part of their implementation timelines.

The committee, chaired by Emma Wolschlager, took unanimous voice votes on a series of agenda items after adopting minutes and moving consent items. Among the approvals: Tarleton State University received approval for three doctoral programs — a Ph.D. in counseling, a Ph.D. in experimental psychology and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) — all slated to begin in 2025 or 2026 depending on the program. Texas A&M University–Texarkana was approved to offer a DPT program beginning in spring 2026. The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston received approvals…