The Department of Education (ED) has proposed a new definition of a “professional degree” that excludes masters and doctoral programs in many professions, including social work. The Impact: Graduate Students who are not enrolled in “professional degree” programs can only borrow up to $20,500 annually. These proposed changes may make an MSW or DSW unattainable through federal loans, forcing students to take out loans with predatory private companies or not complete the degree at all. Maintaining eligibility for federal student loans is essential to sustaining the workforce, particularly during a time when mental  and behavioral health access depends on it.

Contact your U.S. legislators and other federal decision-makers today!

What NASW is doing nationally:

• NASW has been circulating a petition that social workers can sign 
• NASW signed a coalition letter urging ED to expand, not restrict, the definition of professional programs
• NASW has updated its Student Loan Debt Relief webpage with guidance and ongoing advocacy