Reverse Exclusion of Nursing from Professional Degree Definition

I am writing to express my deep concern and opposition to the Department of Education's recent decision to exclude nursing from its definition of 'professional degree' programs in the implementation of student loan measures outlined in the 'One Big Beautiful Bill'. This shortsighted decision threatens to undermine our healthcare system and must be reversed immediately. The exclusion of nursing from professional degree status will have far-reaching consequences. It impacts hundreds of thousands of nursing students and could lead to a significant drop in the number of nurses nationwide. By limiting nurses' access to funding for graduate education, we are jeopardizing patient care and exacerbating the already critical nursing shortage, especially in rural and underserved areas. The American Nurses Association has warned that this change threatens patient care. As the new measures are set to be implemented from July 1, 2026, including the elimination of the Grad PLUS program and caps on Parent PLUS loans, we are facing a ticking time bomb in our healthcare system. The redefinition of professional programs eligible for higher loan limits not only affects nurses but also impacts physician assistants, nurse practitioners, physical therapists, and audiologists. This decision is expected to severely limit the ability of nurses to pursue advanced degrees and reduce the capacity of U.S. nursing programs. At a time when our healthcare system is already strained, we cannot afford to create additional barriers for those seeking to enter or advance in the nursing profession. I urge you to take immediate action to reverse this decision. Nursing must be reinstated as a professional degree program, ensuring that future nurses have access to the necessary funding for their education. The health of our nation depends on a strong, well-educated nursing workforce. Please work with your colleagues and the Department of Education to correct this grave error before it's too late. The July 1, 2026 implementation date may seem distant, but the chilling effect on nursing education will be felt immediately if action is not taken swiftly.