# Texas Governor Forms Higher Education Working Group

Governor Greg Abbott has established a 13-member working group under the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) to develop a statewide framework for three-year bachelor's degree pathways. This initiative aims to create accelerated, affordable degree options aligned with workforce needs, with formal recommendations due by December 31, 2026. The working group includes key higher education leaders from major Texas university systems and colleges, signaling a coordinated state effort to reform degree timelines and reduce educational costs.

- Procurement professionals should note potential future opportunities for educational institutions and vendors to support accelerated degree program development and implementation.
- This initiative may lead to new contracts or funding opportunities related to curriculum design, educational technology, and workforce alignment services.
- Organizations involved in higher education services and workforce development should evaluate how this framework could influence state procurement priorities and funding allocations.
- The December 2026 deadline for recommendations provides a clear timeline for engagement and proposal planning within Texas state education procurement processes.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Education
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 17, 2026

### Government Entities
- Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB)
- Office of the Governor

### Key Quotes
> We look forward to hearing from these expert educators as they identify accelerated programs that can offer students a quality education leading to a durable, financially rewarding career.
> — Wynn Rosser, Texas Higher Education Commissioner

> Texas students deserve a clear and affordable pathway to high-paying jobs.
> — Greg Abbott, Governor

### Sources
- [Governor Abbott Announces Working Group To Develop Framework For Three-Year Bachelor’s Degrees | Office of the Texas Governor | Greg Abbott](https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-announces-working-group-to-develop-framework-for-three-year-bachelors-degrees) - TX