Professional Licensure and State Authorization

Purdue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The Higher Learning Commission is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Purdue University complies with federal regulations related to distance education, including state authorization and misrepresentation provisions under Title IV of the Higher Education Act.

Welcome to State Authorization

Colleges and universities must be authorized to offer distance education to students in the states where they reside.  Purdue University is authorized to offer distance education in states where it enrolls students, either directly or through participation in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA), subject to program-specific limitations.

Professional Licensure

Some academic programs are designed to prepare students for professional licensure or certification; however, educational requirements for licensure vary by state and profession. Requirements for licensure are determined by each state and may differ depending on where a student plans to work.

Licensure determinations are made by individual state boards or agencies. These entities evaluate applications after a student completes the program and applies for licensure. Purdue University provides program-level determinations based on current information and a review of state educational requirements.

Purdue University does not guarantee that completion of a program will result in licensure in any state or territory.

Additional requirements may apply, including examinations, background checks, supervised experience and application fees.

Licensure requirements are subject to change. Students should confirm requirements with the appropriate licensing board in the state where they intend to seek licensure.

Student Complaint Process

Students enrolled in distance education programs have access to a formal complaint resolution process, including institutional procedures and, when applicable, escalation to a state agency. For more information, visit Disclosures for Faculty and Students.

Students should review authorization requirements for their state if they:

  • Are U.S. citizens
  • Reside outside of Indiana
  • Are considering enrollment in a Purdue University online program.

Students are responsible for confirming program authorization and licensure requirements in their state of residence. If a student relocates, they are responsible for ensuring the program meets educational requirements for licensure in the new state. Purdue provides publicly available disclosures to support informed decision making.

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Professional Licensure Information for Teacher Education Program

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Credentialing Information for Veterinary Technology Distance Learning Program

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Disclosures for Faculty and Student

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State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA)

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Resources