Items that Require Board Approval

Here, you will find detailed information about the types of academic modifications that require formal approval from the A&M System Board of Regents. This process ensures that all significant changes align with the Texas A&M University System’s strategic goals and high standards. Whether you are considering new academic programs, substantial modifications to existing programs, or other significant initiatives, it is essential to understand the approval requirements and procedures. Our comprehensive guidelines and resources are designed to assist faculty and administrators in navigating the approval process efficiently and effectively, maintaining the integrity and excellence of our academic offerings.

Admission Standards

Each academic institution within the A&M System is required to submit its admissions standards for the upcoming academic year to the Board of Regents for review and approval.

Centers & Institutes

The creation of a center or institute requires the chancellor’s recommendation and the Board of Regents’ approval. Per System Policy 11.02, they must also be periodically reviewed.

HOnorary degrees

Member institutions may grant an honorary degree to recognize individuals who have made exceptional contributions in their fields or meritorious and outstanding service to the institution, state, nation, or humanity at large.

Mission Statements

System Policy 03.02 Academic Mission Statements and Program Inventory provides each system member academic institution with the required review and approval process for creating or revising its mission statement and program inventory.

New Degree Programs

Creating new associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees Board approval.  The degree proposal process has particular requirements, guidelines, and timelines.

As of November 1, 2022, the System Policy Office processes the following items for approval by the Board of Regents.

To submit any of the following items for consideration, please email them directly to the A&M System Policy Office at AgendaItems@tamus.edu.

Granting Emeritus Status

Emeritus status may be granted to distinguished faculty and staff, typically at retirement, as a mark of honor and recognition for their significant contributions and dedicated service. This honorary title allows retired faculty and staff to maintain an association with the university, often including certain privileges and continued engagement with academic and professional activities.

Faculty Development Leave

A special leave that may be granted to eligible faculty members to support research, writing, advanced study, or other projects that contribute to the faculty member’s professional growth and the university’s academic mission. System Policy 12.99.01 specifies eligibility criteria, application procedures, and the approval process, ensuring that the leave is used effectively to benefit both the faculty member and the institution.

TEnure

Tenure is a significant commitment that provides faculty with academic freedom and job security and recognizes their contributions to teaching, research, and service. System Policy 12.01 details the criteria for eligibility, evaluation process, and the expectations for tenured faculty. It ensures that tenure decisions are based on merit, sustained performance, and alignment with the university’s mission and strategic goals.