(a) This rule outlines how public junior colleges, Texas State Technical College - Harlingen, and Lamar State Colleges may request approval for a new academic associate degree. Proposed programs are subject to Assistant Commissioner approval under subchapter A, §2.4(2), and in accordance with the applicable provisions under subchapter A and this subchapter, except as specifically provided by this rule.(1) General--A proposed academic associate degree is subject to Assistant Commissioner approval under 19 TAC §2.4(2), and in accordance with the applicable provisions under subchapter A and this subchapter.(2) TSTC Harlingen may offer the associate of science degree in accordance with the provisions of Texas Education Code §135.51(b)(1-2).(A) Such program is subject to Assistant Commissioner approval under subsection 2.4(2) of this chapter, and in accordance with the applicable provisions under subchapter A and this subchapter.(B) An associate of science degree program offered by TSTC-Harlingen shall not unnecessarily duplicate existing programs offered in the service areas of Del Mar College, South Texas College, or Texas Southmost College.(b) Embedded--an institution of higher education may offer an associate degree as an embedded credential to a student enrolled in an approved baccalaureate degree program. Approval of a proposed embedded associate degree program is subject to the Assistant Commissioner Expedited Review approval process under 19 TAC §2.4(2)(B)(ii). The institution may request approval for the academic associate degree:(1) as part of the application for the baccalaureate program; or(2) under the provisions of this section.