Core Curriculum FAQs

What is the Core Curriculum?

A Core Curriculum is a set of required classes that provides every UT student with a rigorous foundation for a world shaped by rapid change. It prepares graduates for successful careers, thoughtful citizenship and purposeful lives that benefit our state and nation. All students, regardless of major, must complete the Core Curriculum.

Why is UT updating the Core Curriculum now?

It has been more than 20 years since the last comprehensive review. UT Austin faces a new challenge that all universities confront: preparing students to thrive as artificial intelligence and other technologies change the landscape of education, the workplace and demand more from thoughtful citizens. A new framework guides graduates to develop the intellectual habits needed to thrive alongside AI and other emergent technologies, equip them to evaluate evidence and develop their own well-reasoned conclusions, while using technology wisely rather than being shaped by it.

What role did faculty play in this proposal?

A faculty committee led an extensive six-month review of the current core curriculum, developed recommendations and submitted a report outlining this new framework. They heard from a wide range of faculty and students, met weekly as a task force and subcommittees and tapped national outside experts. Faculty engagement will continue as the proposed Core begins the implementation process.

Will there be input from the University community?

Yes. Continued engagement with faculty, students and staff will be a key part of refining and implementing the new curriculum. The report is guiding framework that is the start of a new core curriculum.

How will this align with state and system requirements?

The University has reviewed the work with The University of Texas System and will continue to work closely with state regulators to ensure full alignment before implementation. This coordination is the first step to ensure the framework is sustainable, compliant and aligned with our public mission.

How will this benefit students?

Students will graduate with:  

  • A shared intellectual foundation 

  • Strong critical thinking and communication skills  

  • Greater ability to evaluate complex information

  • Preparedness to engage with emerging technologies 

  • The knowledge necessary for informed citizenship and leadership

Without an updated and cohesive core, we risk:

  • Graduating students who are highly specialized but lack broader context  

  • Weakening critical thinking and communication skills across disciplines  

  • Leaving students underprepared to engage with complex ethical, scientific and technological issues  

  • Falling short of our responsibility to students, employers and society

Does this limit student choice?

No. While the new framework establishes a stronger shared foundation, students will continue to have opportunities to explore their interests and specialize in their chosen fields. Under the new Core Curriculum, students take six fewer credit hours, giving students more flexibility in their course selection. The goal is to strengthen — not restrict — their academic experience.

What are the differences in credit hours and requirements between the current core and the proposed version?

The current core has 42 credit-hours and 10 component areas. The proposed new Core will require 36 credit hours within three areas: Arts and Humanities (15 credits), Social Science (9 credits), STEM (12 credits).

How will writing and communication skills be addressed in the proposed Core?

Writing is among the most important skills a student can develop. Clear and rigorous thinking, effective communication — both in speech and in writing — are foundational to the proposed Core. Each core component will incorporate writing and oral communication tailored to subject matter and class size. In addition, UT will continue to offer courses that satisfy the state core communication requirements.

When will this be implemented?

Implementation will follow a deliberate and thoughtful process with University stakeholders, UT System and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Full transition to the new Core Curriculum will be determined at a later date. The current timeline includes:  

  • Fall 2026: The University is focused on refining and building curriculum for the new courses, engage current faculty that teach classes in the new Core, begin hiring faculty to fill in gaps for new courses 

  • Fall 2027: Begin piloting classes for the new Core 

  • Fall 2028: All new Core Curriculum courses will be available

If I started at UT under the previous core, will I have to complete additional courses to meet the new Core requirements?

No. Students will have the option to pilot classes beginning in Fall 2027, but the new Core Curriculum will only be a requirement for new incoming students when it goes into effect.

How will Signature Courses fit within the new Core Curriculum?

The new Core Curriculum will gradually replace the Signature Courses program. Faculty teaching in Signature Courses may teach courses within the new Core Curriculum.