The End of Flags: A New Era for UT Austin Undergraduates

Beginning with the graduating class of May 2025, undergraduate students at UT Austin will no longer be required to complete Skills and Experience flags as outlined in their degree plans. This significant shift reflects the university’s commitment to adapting its curriculum to meet the evolving needs of students and the demands of the modern workforce.

Academic advisors are available to guide students through these changes and ensure they understand their individual graduation requirements. Students are encouraged to consult with their advisors to discuss how these changes may affect their specific degree plans.

How Completed flag Courses Will Be Counted

For students who have already completed Flag courses prior to Spring 2025, these courses will continue to count toward degree requirements as they previously did. The university recognizes the work students have already put into fulfilling these requirements and will honor those credits.

While the flag designation will still appear on the course schedule for Summer 2025 and Fall 2025 registration, it is crucial to understand that the flag designation is no longer a graduation requirement. The Spring 2026 course schedule will no longer reference flag courses, signaling a complete transition to the new system.

Writing Remains a Core Requirement

It is indeed critically important to note that while Skills and Experience Flags are being phased out, the core writing component remains a mandatory part of the state’s mandated core curriculum. Classes that carry the writing flag will continue to satisfy this state core requirement, ensuring that all UT Austin graduates possess strong writing skills.

Writing, which has been a Flag course, is part of the state’s mandated core curriculum and will continue to be a required course prior to graduation.

This emphasis on writing reflects the university’s understanding of the importance of effective communication in all fields of study and professional endeavors.

Building Essential Skills: On-campus opportunities

UT Austin offers a variety of on-campus resources designed to help students develop essential skills critical for success in the workplace. These resources provide students with opportunities to enhance their knowledge, gain practical experience, and build a competitive edge.

• Digital Badging Initiative: This initiative provides a catalogue of mini-certifications and badging opportunities that hone skills ranging from basic research laboratory training to leadership experience. Digital badges may be earned as part of an academic course or in a co-curricular activity. For more information, visit the Digital Badging Initiative website.
• Career Centers: Career Centers across the Forty Acres are open to students seeking professional career advice, such as resume guidance, internship and mentorship aid, and networking opportunities. A comprehensive directory is available at the Career Center Directory.
• Coursera: Students can register for industry certificates through Coursera, gaining valuable credentials recognized by employers.
• University Writing Center: The University Writing Center is available for students seeking to hone their writing and presentation skills, providing personalized support and resources.

New Skills, Knowledge, and Experience Programs: A Focus on workforce Readiness

The University is developing a new opt-in path focused on workforce readiness skills, leveraging the full Flags Review Commitee report.This new programming will provide students with the chance to tailor their education to their specific career goals and develop the skills most valued by employers.

While the exact timing for a campus-wide rollout is still being determined, a pilot program is being tested in select colleges in Fall 2025. This pilot will allow the university to gather feedback and refine the program before its full implementation.

Impact on Current Students

The new skills, knowledge, and experience programming will not postpone graduation for current students. participation in the new programming will be optional, allowing students to decide which skills they need to strengthen before entering the workforce and choose relevant courses.

The new programming will be optional.Students will have the ability to decide what skills they need to strengthen before entering the workforce and choose relevant courses.

This flexibility ensures that students can focus on their individual needs and career aspirations without being constrained by mandatory requirements.