Professional Licensure and State Authorization Process Guide

Professional Licensure The U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, specifically 34 CFR 668.43(a) (5) (v) and 34 CFR 668.43(c), require disclosures by institutions regarding educational requirements for programs leading to professional licensure or certification regardless of modality. 34 CFR 668.43(a)(5)(v) requires an institution to make information about whether programs leading to professional licensure or certification meet educational requirements readily available to enrolled and prospective students. If an educational program is designed or advertised to meet educational requirements for a specific professional license or certification that is required for employment , the program is required to issue a “ general disclosure ” containing the following information: A. A list of all States for which the institution has determined that its curriculum meets the State educational requirements for licensure or certification; B. A list of all States for which the institution has determined that its curriculum does not meet the State educational requirements for licensure or certification; and C. A list of all States for which the institution has not made a determination that its curriculummeets the State educational requirements for licensure or certification. Licensure vs. Certification According to the U.S. Department of Education, the term “ licensure ” generally refers to an official process, administered by a state-level authority, which is required by law in order for an individual to practice a regulated profession. The term “ certification ” generally refers to a function administered by a non- governmental organization, which is intended to further recognize professional competence based on having met the quality standards of the organization. The prevalence and relevance of certification varies by profession. Professional Licensure Disclosures A professional licensure disclosure is a regulation of the U. S. Department of Education requiring all colleges and university to communicate publicly and directly to prospective and current students about: (1) educational programs that will or will not fulfill educational requirements for a specific professional licensure that is required for employment in that field; and (2) educational programs that meet or do not meet the education requirements for licensure for each state and U.S. territory regardless of the delivery mode of the program. 34 CFR 668.43(a) (5) (v) – General Disclosures The institution must make general disclosures for every state and territory when determining if the institution’s professional licensure, certification curriculum, or continuing education program meets the educational requirements of those states and territories. The rationale for this requirement is to supply information to students who are reviewing the institution, so the students can make informed decisions about

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Professional Licensure & State Authorization Process Guide