Education

Texas is quickly rapidly evolving into a hub for technology and innovation, as the state continues to serve as a refuge for companies and homeowners fleeing the regulatory morass of California.  

Unfortunately, there are some bad regulations that just can’t be escaped. 

In response to the state’s rise as a hub for ascendant technology, Texas universities have worked to build out programs that would allow students to take advantage of tech opportunities. This is a no brainer. Unfortunately, the federal government is throwing a wrench in the works, by pushing for regulatory changes that would dramatically disrupt institutions' ability to partner with online program managers (OPMs) - a critical partner that’s helping schools scale up low-cost, relevant programs to meet emerging market demands. 

These partnerships between universities and OPMs took off after the Department of Education (ED) issued a Dear Colleague Letter in 2011, to provide guidance on college contractors, called “third-party servicers.” At the time, the ED clarified that contractors offering “bundled services” (often a combination of online technology platforms, coursework design, recruiting, and other services) could be compensated via tuition revenue-sharing arrangements.