As early as next year, Texas college students could start earning a degree in three years.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is working on a statewide plan for all public universities to offer accelerated 90-credit-hour degree programs.

Governor Greg Abbott said the option would allow students to save thousands of dollars in tuition and living expenses and get into the workforce sooner.

"There's high demand for more college-educated and trained students to go directly into the workforce. This will assist to make sure they are graduating more of these highly qualified and skilled and trained students who are ready on day one," Abbott explained.

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The move comes as the importance of a four-year college degree is in question. A report from Lumina Foundation and Gallup showed 23% of Americans think college is too expensive and does not align with the needs of the workforce. Still, nearly three-quarters say earning a credential is just as important today.

Students who pursue the accelerated bachelor's degree would take fewer credits, or fewer classes, allowing them to graduate a year early. The degree plans would focus on specialized industries such as cybersecurity and supply chain management. Abbott added the coordinating board will work with other stakeholders to design the curriculum.

"They work in collaboration with our universities, our legislators, with students, parents, to make sure they are shaping products that will be used but also will ensure that we retain and actually improve upon the excellence that already exists," Abbott noted.

The board must submit its recommendations and proposed framework to the governor's office by December 31. The proposal must be approved by the Legislature.