GENERAL EDUCATION CURRICULUM REVIEW.

(a) In this section:

(1) "General education curriculum" means a core curriculum, as that term is defined by Section 61.821, and any other curriculum or competency all undergraduate students of an institution of higher education are required to complete before receiving an undergraduate degree.

(2) "Governing board" and "institution of higher education" have the meanings assigned by Section 61.003.

(b) At least once every five years, the governing board of each institution of higher education shall conduct a comprehensive review of the general education curriculum established by the institution. In reviewing an institution's general education curriculum, the governing board shall ensure courses in the curriculum:

(1) are foundational and fundamental to a sound postsecondary education;

(2) are necessary to prepare students for civic and professional life;

(3) equip students for participation in the workforce and in the betterment of society; and

(4) ensure a breadth of knowledge in compliance with applicable accreditation standards.

(c) In reviewing the general education curriculum of an institution of higher education under Subsection (b), the governing board of the institution shall consider the potential costs the curriculum may impose on students, including for additional tuition, fees, and time a student must spend to complete an undergraduate degree program at the institution.

(d) Each institution of higher education shall annually submit to the governing board of the institution an update regarding any changes to the general education curriculum offered at the institution. The governing board may reserve the right to overturn any decision made by the institution regarding any changes to the general education curriculum offered at the institution.

(e) The governing board of an institution of higher education may appoint a committee to assist the governing board in carrying out its duties under this section, including by making recommendations to the governing board. Members of the committee may include:

(1) faculty employed full time by the institution;

(2) institution administrators;

(3) community leaders;

(4) industry representatives; and

(5) other individuals selected by the governing board.

(f) Not later than January 1 of each year a review is conducted under this section, the governing board of each institution of higher education shall certify the governing board's compliance with this section to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and each standing legislative committee and subcommittee with primary jurisdiction over higher education.