The Association for Prevention Teaching and Research is deeply concerned by the decision of the Department of Education Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Committee to exclude public health programs, as well as several other health professions, from its definition of “professional degrees.” If finalized, this policy change would severely limit students’ access to essential federal loan support, reduce student enrollment in key health professions programs, and weaken the nation’s already strained workforce pipeline needed to address and prevent chronic conditions.

This recommendation also jeopardizes students pursuing dual degrees, a critical pathway for preparing professionals trained at the intersection of preventive health, medicine, and population health. Limiting access to federal financial aid for these programs undermines the interdisciplinary training needed to address the nation’s increasingly complex health challenges. 

At a time when the United States is confronting significant workforce shortages across public health and related fields, this proposed policy risks worsening long-standing capacity challenges and diminishing the ability to respond to current and future public health needs.

The Department of Education is expected to issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the coming weeks, followed by a 30-day public comment period. APTR stands firmly with its partner organizations in advocating  for the inclusion of public health and other excluded health professions in the final rule. We strongly encourage all members, faculty, students, and allied organizations to participate during the upcoming public comment window.  Your voices will be essential in ensuring that the full impact of this proposal is recognized. 

ASPPH Call to Action