Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Higher Education Committee |
HB 1477
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Authorizing the board of trustees at Eastern Washington University to offer educational specialist degrees.
Sponsors: Representatives Schmick, Sells, Springer, Haler, Roberts and Kenney.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/3/11
Staff: Cece Clynch (786-7195).
Background:
One of the primary purposes of regional universities is to offer undergraduate and graduate education programs through the master's degree. The regional universities are specifically authorized by the Legislature to grant any degree through the master's degree to any student who has completed a program of study in those areas which are determined by the faculty and the Board of Trustees (Board) of the institution to be appropriate for the granting of such degree. This legislative authorization is the first step. Before being offered, all degree programs are also subject to the review and approval of the Higher Education Coordinating Board (HECB).
In 2001 the Legislature authorized Eastern Washington University (EWU) to offer applied, but not research, doctorate level degrees in physical therapy, subject to review and approval by the HECB. This is the only graduate degree above a master's that a regional university has been authorized to offer.
An educational specialist degree (ED.S.) is an advanced degree for people who already have a master's degree with a teaching or educational focus. It is an intermediate degree between a master's and a doctorate. Some common ED.S. specialties include school psychology, curriculum and instruction, special education, and educational administration.
Summary of Bill:
The Board of EWU is authorized to offer an ED.S. degree, subject to review and approval by the HECB.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.