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Professional Licensure and State Authorization

Many careers, such as teaching, nursing, counseling, and more, require a state-issued license to legally work in that field. Whether you’re planning to work in Colorado or move to another state after graduation, it’s important to understand how licensure works and how your program at UNC prepares you to obtain licensure.

Additionally, through participation in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA), we meet regulatory requirements to provide distance learning across all states and U.S. territories during your time at UNC. Visit the SARA page to learn more about distance learning, including additional approval requirements for internships, practica, clinical rotations, and student teaching outside of Colorado.

What is Professional Licensure?

Licenses are issued by state agencies, such as a state board of education, a nursing board, or other licensing divisions. These agencies are responsible for ensuring that only qualified individuals can practice in these professions to protect consumers who interact with these fields. These agencies determine:

The educational requirements for licensure, such as the level of degree, whether programs hold specialized accreditation, and the coursework areas that must be met.

The application process, which may include fingerprinting, verification of identity and citizenship, background checks (including prior convictions or criminal history), and program review and application fees.

State-specific requirements, such as state-mandated coursework, training, or examinations on state laws governing your profession.

All UNC licensure programs satisfy educational requirements in Colorado. However, each state regulates professions differently and sets their own educational requirements for licensure. Additionally, states may change their requirements over time, and these changes could happen while enrolled in your program.

Because UNC programs may not lead to licensure in every state, it’s important to understand state requirements based on where you plan to live and work.

Resources for Professional Licensure
 and State Authorization

Check UNC’s Licensure Disclosures by Program: We’ve reviewed each program and listed whether it satisfies educational requirements in each state.

Find State Licensing Agency Links: Use this resource to find your state’s licensure board or regulatory agency and to contact them for additional information.

State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA): Visit the SARA page to learn more about UNC’s SARA participation and additional approval requirements for learning placements in some states.

Have Questions?

Please email us at Licensure@unco.edu and we’ll gladly help you find the right information!