HR 8659 United States House · 119th Congress

Nursing is a Professional Degree Act

This bill amends the Higher Education Act to officially classify nursing degrees, such as the Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice, as professional degrees. By adding nursing to a specific list of advanced fields like medicine and law, the legislation ensures these programs are recognized for their rigorous academic requirements and the high level of skill they provide. This change directly affects nursing students and educators by aligning the federal definition of nursing education with other established health professions. The update aims to clarify the status of nursing within the federal student aid framework without altering existing funding rules or licensure standards.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
May 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
President
Introduced May 4, 2026 Last action May 4, 2026
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2
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Committee
1
May 4, 2026
Committee
Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
lower
May 4, 2026
Introduced
Introduced in House
lower
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

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