Public Health Leaders Respond to the Administration’s Rule Threatening the Public Health Workforce

The Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) warns that a proposed Department of Education rule excluding public health degrees from the “professional degree” category could significantly affect the nation’s public health workforce. The change would limit access to federal financial aid and higher loan limits, increasing financial barriers for students, particularly those from historically excluded communities.

ASPPH leaders argue the policy may reduce enrollment in graduate public health programs at a time of workforce shortages and growing health challenges, including infectious diseases, climate-related disasters, and mental health needs. ASPPH is engaging policymakers and hosting a media briefing to highlight potential implications for workforce capacity and community health resilience. Read more from ASPPH here.