(a) The final decision-making authority on matters regarding an institution of higher education's degree programs and curricula belongs to the institution. The institution shall make the decisions on those matters under the direction of the institution's governing board.
(b) In addition to specific responsibilities imposed by this code or other law, each institution of higher education has the general responsibility to serve the public and, within the institution's role and mission, to:
(1) transmit culture through general education;
(2) extend knowledge;
(3) teach and train students for professions;
(4) provide for scientific, engineering, medical, and other academic research;
(5) protect intellectual exploration and academic freedom;
(6) strive for intellectual excellence;
(7) provide educational opportunity for all who can benefit from postsecondary education and training; and
(8) provide continuing education opportunities.