A fast-track college curriculum is what Gov. Greg Abbott is calling for all public universities in Texas to develop.
The development of a pathway to a three-year degree could be more cost-effective and prepare the next generation of jobs in the state, Abbott announced on Wednesday, Aug, 26.
"We must not only improve student outcomes in K-12 education but also supply the tools vital for student success in Texas higher education institutions. Every Texas student deserves the chance to pursue their academic goals fully, and the option to do so on an accelerated timeline to save time and money," Abbott said.
According to Abbott's campaign, the initiative will give Texas students the option to earn certain bachelor’s degrees in three years and require
Texas public universities to offer accelerated 90-credit-hour degree programs in high-demand, high-paying fields. He made his announcement following a roundtable discussion with state lawmakers, Stephen F. Austin State University leadership, and students.
According to Abbott's estimates, three-year degree options would allow students to save up to $35,000 in tuition and living expenses, helping keep higher education affordable and attainable for all Texans.
Earlier this week, Abbott announced a proposal to offer discounted summer courses, helping students save money and graduate sooner.
"(This) announcement builds on Governor Abbott’s broader Keep Texas Affordable agenda, including cutting property taxes, freezing tuition and fees at Texas public colleges and universities, lowering home and auto insurance costs, reducing healthcare and prescription drug costs, and giving Texans a choice in their electricity provider," his campaign said.
Gina Hinojosa focused on Texas affordability
Hinojosa has remained consistent in her economic focus, not releasing a specific policy to lower college costs.
She has focused heavily on populist economic policies and broad cost-of-living relief rather than introducing specific legislative plans to address higher education tuition rates.
Her campaign stance emphasizes that by eliminating "corrupt vendor contracts" and scaling back the heavy bureaucracy within the Texas Education Agency, the state would free up substantial revenue to invest directly in classrooms and make public education at all levels less of an economic burden on families.
Important dates for 2026 Texas election
The last day to register to vote for the General Election is Oct. 5, either online, by mail, or in person.
Early voting starts Oct. 19 and runs through Oct. 30. The absentee ballot request deadline is Oct. 23 for mail requests or Oct. 19 for in-person requests. The absentee ballot return deadline is Nov. 3, by mail or in person on Election Day.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Kristian Jaime is the Top Story Reporter for the El Paso Times and is reachable at Kjaime@elpasotimes.com.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Gov. Abbott calls on Texas universities to offer 3-year degree programs
