HB4848

HB4848 requires each public university system’s administration to ensure that one or more institutions in the system offer competency-based bachelor’s degrees in each field the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board identifies as high demand. Programs remain subject to the board’s academic-program approval requirements. The duty is system-wide; it does not require every campus to offer every program. Final law

In a competency-based program, academic credit is awarded solely on demonstrated competencies—what the student has learned and can do. The statutory definition can still include traditional course-based units, online courses and other distance education. It is not simply a promise of an automatic degree for work experience. Definition in Education Code Section 56.521

The required programs’ total cost to an enrolled student is capped initially at one-half of the average cost of attendance at an institution of higher education, as determined by board rule. The final law does not specify a fixed dollar amount. Starting in 2027–28, the board must annually adjust the preceding year’s limit for inflation using the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers.

The act took effect September 1, 2025; the program requirements begin with the 2026–27 academic year. Which fields qualify and the applicable cost calculation depend on board rules. This explanation does not establish which particular programs are currently accepting students or promise admission, a completion date or a specific tuition bill.