State Authorization
The University of Kansas offers distance learning opportunities for students living across the United States. Pursuant with the U.S. Department of Education's regulation (34 C.F.R. § 600.9) regarding distance learning in the United States, the University of Kansas must obtain authorization from each state in which KU distance learning programs are offered. The University must also comply with the distance learning regulations established by each state.
Distance learning encompasses all learning activities that take place outside of Kansas. This includes 100% online courses and programs as well as activities such as internships, externships, co-ops, field experiences, student teaching, and clinical placements that are required as part of online and/or campus-based courses or programs.
Authorization (also known as licensure, approval, or registration) does not constitute a state's endorsement of the University of Kansas, distance learning courses or degree programs.
Important Notes
- All distance learning programs at the University of Kansas have been approved by the Kansas Board of Regents. The University of Kansas is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- Certain distance learning activities may have restrictions or limitations that vary by state. See Professional Licensure Disclosure below.
- Transfer credit is determined by the receiving institution. Check with your home institution before enrolling in a KU course that you wish to transfer credit.
- KU Faculty and Administrative Staff should refer to the Center for Online and Distance Learning as well as the office of Financial Aid & Scholarships for more information and requirements related to state authorization.
State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA)
As of Jan. 16, 2015, the University of Kansas is a participant in the SARA initiative, which is a state-level reciprocity process aimed at making the effort to obtain state authorizations more efficient for institutions and to make it easier for students to enroll in distance education programs outside of the states in which they reside. Institutions that are members of SARA are authorized to provide education to students from all SARA member states. States and institutions that choose to become members of SARA operate under a set of policies and standards overseen by the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) and administered by four regional higher education compacts. For more information about the SARA initiative and the progress of state and institutional membership, please visit www.nc-sara.org/sara-states-institutions.
As a SARA institution, the University of Kansas is able to enroll residents from states and U.S. territories that are members of SARA in all online programs.
Non-SARA State and Territories
- California - The University of Kansas is allowed to offer distance education programs to CA residents, as KU does not meet the definition of physical presence in CA.
- Federated States of Micronesia - There are currently no regulations that restrict U.S. institutions from providing distance education to citizens of FSM.
- Republic of the Marshall Islands - There are currently no regulations regarding the authorization of distance education programs.
- American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Republic of Palau - Information is currently unavailable regarding distance education authorization.
Questions regarding KU's authorization status in a particular state or U.S. territory may be directed to the KU Center for Online and Distance Learning at onlinelearning@ku.edu or 785-864-1000.
Professional Licensure Disclosure
The above mentioned state reciprocity agreement has no effect on professional licensing or certification requirements.
Students considering an academic program, whether online or campus-based, as a pathway to professional licensure or certification in any field should note:
- The University of Kansas cannot confirm whether any particular course or program meets requirements for professional licensure in states other than Kansas.
- Students must seek guidance from their home state licensing agency BEFORE enrolling in the academic program to ensure that a license can be obtained.
Below is a list of resources that may be helpful for researching professional licensure or certification processes, requirements, and agency contact information. This list is not comprehensive, and students are reminded that it is their responsibility to accurately research licensing or certification requirements for their own state or profession:
- CareerOneStop - survey tool for locating professional licensing regulatory bodies, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration
- Council on Licensure, Enforcement, and Regulation - listing by state of licensing and regulatory boards in North America
- U.S. Department of Education - contact info by state for department of education, higher education agency, special education, and adult education
- National Association of State Boards of Accountancy - listing by state
- National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) - member licensing boards
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) - state members
- Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) - participating states
- Social Work Examination Services - state licensing boards
Student Complaint Process
The University of Kansas aims to provide a supportive campus culture that promotes student learning and development. However, students may seek resources for conflict resolution.
If conflicts are unable to be resolved internally, complaints may be directed to the Kansas Board of Regents: