Nursing Excluded as 'Professional' Degree by Department of Education
2 days ago
- #federal loans
- #healthcare policy
- #nursing education
- Nursing excluded from 'professional' degree classification by the Department of Education.
- Graduate nursing students lose access to higher federal loan limits and loan forgiveness programs.
- Changes may deter students from pursuing advanced nursing education, worsening the nursing shortage.
- Nursing organizations like ANA and AACN are advocating for reconsideration, citing nursing's professional criteria.
- The new classification could disproportionately affect underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students.
- Implementation of the new measures is scheduled for July 1, 2026.
- Nurses and students are encouraged to stay informed and explore alternative financial aid options.