SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1030
As Reported by Senate Committee On:
Higher Education & Workforce Development, March 15, 2023
Title: An act relating to applied doctorate degree-granting authority.
Brief Description: Concerning applied doctorate degree-granting authority.
Sponsors: Representatives Leavitt, Jacobsen, Pollet, Reeves and Bronoske.
Brief History: Passed House: 1/26/23, 93-0.
Committee Activity: Higher Education & Workforce Development: 3/10/23, 3/15/23 [DP].
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Permits the regional universities to offer applied doctorate degrees.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Randall, Chair; Nobles, Vice Chair; Holy, Ranking Member; Hawkins and Liias.
Staff: Alicia Kinne-Clawson (786-7407)
Background:

Eastern Washington University (EWU) offers applied doctorate degrees in physical therapy. Western Washington University (WWU) offers applied doctorate degrees in audiology. The boards of trustees of the regional universities offer applied doctorate degrees in education. The boards do not have broad authority to offer applied doctorate degrees.

 

An applied doctorate degree is designed for advanced professional practice focusing on the application of existing research and knowledge applied in the field, rather than on the creation of new research for the field. A typical applied doctorate program includes classroom study, field placements, and administrative practice. 
Summary of Bill:

The boards of trustees of the regional universities may offer applied, but not research, doctorate degrees.

 

The three statutes authorizing EWU, WWU, and the boards of trustees of the regional universities to offer applied doctorates in audiology, physical therapy, and education are repealed.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

PRO: There is a workforce shortage across the state in a broad array of fields, some of which require higher level education to perform. Applied doctorates are often needed as industries and accreditation standards evolve. Many workers cannot leave their jobs or families to attend a university to get that credential. This applied doctorate granting opportunities for regional universities is important to allow families who are taking care of younger children or have jobs to be able to get these credentials. In addition, it is a good government efficiency bill. This bill will help workers get jobs.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Mari Leavitt, Prime Sponsor; David Buri, Eastern Washington University; Nora Selander, Western Washington University.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.