Nursing is a Professional Degree Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Kiggans, Jennifer A. [R-VA-2]
- Committees
- Education and Workforce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 7, 2026
Bottom line
The bill formally recognizes advanced nursing degrees as professional degrees under federal law, potentially impacting student loan eligibility and terms for nursing students.
What it actually does
This bill, titled the "Nursing is a Professional Degree Act," amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to explicitly include various advanced nursing degrees (MSN, DNP, DNAP, Ph.D) in the definition of a "professional degree." It also provides a general definition for professional degrees and lists other recognized professional degrees, while removing a reference to a specific Code of Federal Regulations section. The primary effect is to ensure nursing degrees are recognized for federal student aid purposes in the same category as other professional degrees.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill rectifies an outdated definition in federal law that failed to adequately recognize the rigorous academic and clinical requirements of advanced nursing degrees. They contend that explicitly classifying degrees like the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) as professional degrees ensures nursing students receive equitable access to federal student aid programs, aligning with the treatment of other healthcare professions and supporting the growth of a critical workforce.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that expanding the definition of professional degrees could have unforeseen fiscal implications for federal student loan programs, potentially increasing the pool of eligible students for certain loan types or amounts without a clear budgetary offset. They might also raise concerns about the precedent set for other fields seeking similar reclassification, potentially leading to a broader redefinition of "professional student" that could strain federal resources or alter the intended scope of specific aid programs.
The bill is very short and straightforward, allowing for quick comprehension by any interested reader.
Section 2, amending Section 455(a)(4)(C) of the Higher Education Act of 1965
Redefinition of "Professional Degree" to include Nursing
This provision updates the Higher Education Act of 1965 by removing an outdated reference to federal regulations for defining a "professional student." Crucially, it establishes a new, explicit definition for "professional degree," which includes a general standard (a degree signifying completion of academic requirements for beginning practice in a licensed profession, beyond a bachelor's skill level) and a specific list of degrees. This list now explicitly includes various advanced nursing degrees (MSN, DNP, DNAP, or Ph.D), alongside other established professional degrees like Medicine, Law, and Dentistry.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this redefinition is essential to acknowledge the advanced training and critical role of nurses, particularly those with graduate degrees, in the modern healthcare system. They contend it removes an arbitrary barrier, ensuring that nursing students are treated equitably in federal student aid programs, which can help address nursing shortages and support career advancement.
Critics contend
Some might argue that while the intent is good, explicitly listing degrees could lead to a continuous legislative process of adding new degrees as professions evolve, rather than relying on the Secretary's discretion or a broader, more flexible definition. This could create administrative burdens or lead to lobbying efforts for specific degree inclusions.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the desire for explicit recognition of specific, deserving professions with the need for a flexible definition that can adapt to evolving educational landscapes without constant legislative updates. It also navigates the tension between ensuring equitable access to student aid for critical professions and managing the overall scope and cost of federal loan programs.
Strikes the phrase ", as defined under section 668.2 of title 34, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of this paragraph)," from Section 455(a)(4)(C)(ii) of the Higher Education Act of 1965.
Section 2(1)
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice to update or remove references to outdated or superseded regulations. It's a cleanup measure rather than an evasive tactic.
Case for: Supporters would argue that removing the specific CFR reference streamlines the definition and prevents reliance on potentially outdated or externally defined regulatory language, allowing the statute to be self-contained or rely on the new statutory definition.
Case against: No specific opposition is typically raised against such technical cleanup provisions, as they aim to improve clarity and consistency in the law.
Estimated impact: Minimal direct impact, primarily administrative clarity.