Texas Universities Initiate Course Reviews Amid Controversy Over Gender Identity Instruction

AUSTIN, TEXAS — In response to recent controversies surrounding gender identity discussions in higher education, several Texas public university systems have commenced reviews of their academic courses. This action follows a viral incident at Texas A&M University, where a student confronted a professor over a gender identity topic in a children’s literature class. The university subsequently terminated the professor, and former President Mark A. Welsh III resigned amid the fallout.

Seeking to preempt similar controversies, the Texas Tech University System issued guidance instructing faculty to ensure compliance with a federal executive order, a directive from Governor Greg Abbott, and a new state law recognizing only two sexes. Faculty and LGBTQ+ advocates have expressed concerns that these directives may limit discussions on transgender and nonbinary identities, potentially infringing upon academic freedom.

In addition to Texas Tech, at least three other public university systems — the University of North Texas, the University of Texas, and Texas Woman’s University — have initiated course reviews. While these reviews are framed as efforts to ensure compliance with state and federal laws, the specific laws prompting these reviews have not been disclosed. The outcomes of these reviews remain unclear.

Public universities are required to conduct curriculum reviews under Senate Bill 37, passed earlier this year. However, the first reviews are not due until 2027. The law directs governing boards to examine whether general education courses are necessary to prepare students for civic and professional life and ensure a breadth of knowledge. Earlier versions of the bill included provisions barring courses from promoting the superiority of any race, sex, or religion, or endorsing specific public policies or ideologies, but these were removed before passage.