FINAL BILL REPORT

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.

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 law 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 of the institution to be appropriate for the granting of such degree. Before being offered, all degree programs are also subject to the review and approval of the Higher Education Coordinating Board (HECB).

In 2001 legislation was enacted authorizing 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.

Votes on Final Passage:

House	96	0
Senate	49	0