College Groups Find Professional Degree List Lacking

Several higher education associations stated on July 9, 2026, that an expanded list of professional degrees is incomplete, particularly concerning degrees in social work and education. The U.S. Department of Education had previously added advanced nursing, physician assistant, and occupational therapist degrees to the list, which is used to determine eligibility for federal student aid programs. However, the associations argue that the exclusion of master's degrees in social work and education, as well as other professional degrees, limits access to financial aid for students pursuing these critical fields.

The Council on Social Work Education and the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, among other organizations, expressed disappointment with the Department of Education's decision. They contend that these excluded degrees are essential for addressing societal needs in areas such as mental health, child welfare, and K-12 education. The groups are advocating for a more comprehensive inclusion of professional degrees that reflect the diverse and evolving landscape of higher education and workforce demands.

According to a statement released by the associations, the current list fails to recognize the significant professional contributions and academic rigor of programs in social work and education. They highlight that these fields require specialized graduate-level training and prepare individuals for vital roles in public service and community well-being. The organizations plan to continue engaging with the Department of Education to advocate for the inclusion of these and other professional degrees in future updates.