Texas Core Curriculum

At Paris Junior College, we believe every student deserves a strong academic foundation that prepares them for transfer, career success, and lifelong learning. That’s why all students pursuing an associate degree complete the 42-credit-hour Texas Core Curriculum—a set of courses in the liberal arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences required by every public college and university in Texas. 

More Info on the Texas Core Curriculum

Why the Core Curriculum Matters

The Texas Core Curriculum is designed to:

  • Build a broad base of knowledge in the arts and sciences.
  • Ensure students gain essential skills in critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving.
  • Make transferring to a Texas university smooth and seamless—core courses taken at PJC are guaranteed to transfer and will satisfy the first two years of core requirements at any state-supported college or university in Texas.

Once you’ve completed the entire block of core curriculum at PJC, your transcript will note “Core Curriculum Completed,” giving you peace of mind that your credits will carry forward.

Core Learning Objectives

Through the Texas Core Curriculum, students develop the intellectual and practical skills needed for academic and professional success, including:

  • Critical Thinking Skills
  • Communication Skills
  • Empirical and Quantitative Skills
  • Teamwork
  • Personal Responsibility
  • Social Responsibility

These objectives are built upon essential competencies like reading, writing, speaking, listening, computer literacy, and problem-solving.

Planning Your Degree

The Core Curriculum is included within every Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), and Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree plan at PJC. Students should work closely with a Student Success Coach to ensure their chosen courses fit both their PJC degree plan and the transfer requirements of their future college or university.

To graduate with an associate degree in Texas, students must complete:

  • At least 60 credit hours in their program of study
  • A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA

Transfer Made Simple

Paris Junior College participates in several statewide initiatives that make transferring easier:

  • Statewide Core Curriculum Guarantee – ensures your 42 core hours transfer anywhere in Texas.
  • Texas Common Course Numbering System (TCCNS) – helps align PJC courses with university equivalents.
  • Guarantee for Transfer Program – a state policy ensuring smooth transfer between institutions.

Next Step: Explore your degree plan and talk with a Student Success Coach to map out your path through the Core Curriculum and toward your transfer or career goals.

Find More about Student Success Coaches & Advising

Paris Campus – Advising & Counseling Center
📍 Alford Center
📞 903-782-0426 | 📧 advising@parisjc.edu
🕒 Monday–Thursday: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. | Friday: 8 a.m.–noon

Greenville Center
📍 Front Office
📞 903-454-9333
🕒 Monday–Thursday: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. | Friday: 8 a.m.–noon

Sulphur Springs Center
📍 Front Office
📞 903-885-1232
🕒 Monday–Thursday: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. | Friday: 8 a.m.–noon

Walk-ins or appointments welcome. Find a Campus.