Abbott proposes 3-year bachelor’s degree options for Texas public universities

(KVIA) -- Texas Governor Greg Abbott called on Texas public colleges and universities to establish three-year undergraduate degree options Wednesday.

The governor said his initiative will allow Texas students to earn bachelor's degrees within three years and require Texas schools to offer accelerated degree programs in high-demand, high-paying fields.

A typical bachelor's degree requires 120 credit hours. Gov. Abbott directed the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to create a framework for the program to then recommend to the legislature.

A three-year degree would allow students to save up to $35,000 in tuition and living expenses, Gov. Abbott said.

For some students transferring from community colleges, some of those credits would count toward the 90-hour degree, the governor said.

"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," said Gov. Abbott in a statement. "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."

Earlier this week, the governor also announced a proposal to offer discounted summer classes to help students save money and graduate sooner.

Gov. Abbott is running for re-election this November. He faces Democratic nominee Gina Hinojosa.