As part of a negotiated rulemaking process that concluded recently aimed at implementing certain provisions of HR 1, the Department of Education (DOE) has proposed revisions to the definition of “professional degree” that has implications for federal student loan eligibility for certain post-baccalaureate programs.

Programs excluded from the revised definition include several related to fields that are vital to the aging services sector: nursing, physical/occupational therapy, and social work, among others. As a result of these changes, students in these fields will face reduced federal loan options when pursuing advanced credentials.

DOE is expected to issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in January, followed by a public comment period. Final rules are expected to take effect on July 1, 2026.