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THECB approves multiple new doctoral, DPT and first community-college bachelor's program
Summary
The board approved several degree proposals July 22, including two Ph.D. programs at Texas A&M, DBAs at Texas A&M Central Texas and UTSA, a doctor of physical therapy at Sam Houston State, and Southwest Texas College's first bachelor's program in organizational management and leadership.
During the July 22 meeting, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board approved a slate of degree-program requests from several institutions.
Jessica Acton, senior director for academic programs, reviewed statutory program-approval criteria and presented proposals from Texas A&M University for a PhD in Public Health Sciences and a PhD in Health Behavior, both proposed to begin fall 2027. Alan Sam (provost, Texas A&M) and Ron Givhan (associate dean) described workforce demand, accreditation plans, and program scope.
The board also approved doctoral business administration (DBA) proposals from Texas A&M University Central Texas and UT San Antonio, each pitched as hybrid or flexible programs intended to meet regional and workforce needs. Texas A&M Central Texas emphasized ties to local employers and Fort Hood-area demand; UTSA projected an annual cohort of about 25 students.
Sam Houston State University received approval to offer a doctor of physical therapy, with program directors forecasting an inaugural cohort of 44 and a curriculum that includes a 1,780-hour clinical immersion. Southwest Texas College's request to offer an online Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Organizational Management and Leadership (the college's first baccalaureate) was also approved; the college said the degree responds to workforce needs in an 11-county service area.
Board action on each item was taken by motion and voice vote. Presenters noted accreditation plans where applicable and implementation timelines, typically targeting fall 2027 start dates.
