Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Higher Education Committee |
HB 1544
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 educational specialist degrees at Central Washington University and Western Washington University.
Sponsors: Representatives Lytton, Seaquist, Johnson, Smith, Sells, Ryu, Morrell, Roberts, Bergquist, Springer, Pollet and Santos.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/6/13
Staff: Luke Wickham (786-7146).
Background:
As stated in statute, the primary purposes of the regional universities are to offer undergraduate and graduate programs through the master's degree. Statute further defines the specific types of degrees that these universities may provide. Statute authorizes bachelor's degrees in arts, science, and arts in education at the regional universities. It authorizes master's degrees in areas determined by the faculty and the boards of trustees to be appropriate for the granting of such degree.
In 2001, the Legislature authorized Eastern Washington University to offer applied, but not research, doctorate level degrees in physical therapy, subject to review.
An educational specialist degree (Ed.S) is an advanced degree designed to be between a master's degree and doctoral degree. Legislation passed in 2011 allows the board of trustees at Eastern Washington University to offer an Ed.S. The program at Eastern Washington University offers an Ed.S in school psychology.
Summary of Bill:
The boards of trustees of Central Washington and Western Washington Universities are allowed to offer educational specialist degrees.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on February 1, 2013.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.