Bill · H.R. 8691· House(119-HR-8691)

Nursing is a Professional Degree Act

Age: 55 years

Virginia

Introduced: 5/7/2026
Last activity: 5/7/2026 — Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
Sponsored by: Jennifer Kiggans
Cosponsors: - 16 - 7

Health

Introduced
In Committee

What this bill would do

This bill, titled the ``Nursing is a Professional Degree Act'', aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965. It specifically targets the definition of a professional student by amending section 455(a)(4)(C). The legislation introduces a specific definition for what constitutes a "professional degree." This definition includes degrees that signify the completion of academic requirements for practicing a profession that commonly requires licensure and demonstrates skill beyond a bachelor's degree. The bill lists several specific degrees, such as Pharmacy, Law, and Medicine, while adding Nursing to this category.

Yes· 3 of 4

Would students be better off under this?+5
By refining the definition of professional degrees, students in these fields may gain clearer standing regarding federal student aid.
Does this make college cost less?+5
By clarifying nursing degrees as professional degrees, it likely facilitates better access to federal student aid for nursing students.
Would people in their twenties and thirties be better off under this?+3
The bill may benefit young adults pursuing professional healthcare careers by clarifying their status under the Higher Education Act.