A public junior college is an institution of higher learning, controlled by a local board of trustees or regents, and operated under statutory provisions. A public community college (State Statute 130.003, as amended in Senate Bill 330, 73rd Legislature, effective May 23, 1993) shall be to provide:

1. technical programs up to two years in length leading to associate degrees or certificates;
2. vocational programs leading directly to employment in semiskilled and skilled occupations;
3. freshman and sophomore courses in arts and sciences;
4. continuing adult education programs for occupational or cultural upgrading;
5. compensatory education programs designed to fulfill the commitment of an admissions policy allowing the enrollment of disadvantaged students;
6. a continuing program of counseling and guidance designed to assist students in achieving their individual educational goals;
7. workforce development programs designed to meet local and statewide needs;
8. adult literacy and other basic skills programs for adults;
9. such other purposes as may be prescribed by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board or local governing boards in the best interest of post- secondary education in Texas.