1. (a) Criteria. In reviewing request for additions to the program authority of an institution, the Board shall consider:

   1. (1) the demonstrated need for a future program in terms of present and future vocational needs of the state and the nation,
   2. (2) whether the proposed addition would complement and strengthen existing programs at the institution,
   3. (3) whether a future program would unnecessarily duplicate other programs within the region, state, or nation, and
   4. (4) whether a critical mass of students and faculty is likely to be available to allow the program to be offered at a high level of quality and to become self-sufficient on the basis of state funding.

2. (b) Review and Approval Process.

   1. (1) As provided by Texas Education Code, §61.051 (e), at least every four years the Board shall review the role and mission statements, the table of programs and all degree and certificate programs offered by each public senior university. The review shall include the participation of the institution's board of regents.
   2. (2) The review process shall be determined by the Commissioner, but shall include a review of low-producing degree programs at the institution.
   3. (3) The Board shall approve or re-approve the mission statement and table of programs of each institution following the review described in paragraph (1) of this subsection. Each institution shall be given an opportunity to be heard by the Board about these matters.
   4. (4) After approval or re-approval, requests for new programs and administrative changes shall be considered in the context of the approved role and mission for the institution.
   5. (5) An institution may request an amendment to its authorized role and mission at any time circumstances warrant.
   6. (6) The Commissioner may approve minor changes to the mission statement or table of programs of an institution during the period between the four-year reviews.

Source Note:The provisions of this §5.24 adopted to be effective May 28, 2003, 28 TexReg 4124.