State Authorization and Regulation of Distance Education

State authorization refers to regulations that impact online and on-ground education offered across state lines and programs that lead to state licenses or certifications. Compliance with these regulations ensures that a Georgia State degree will be recognized and that a student will be eligible to sit for licensure in states other than Georgia.

Each state has unique authorization requirements. Georgia State officials track and research regulations in other states and maintain compliance. Part of that compliance is in maintaining current information

Due to state and federal regulations, non-Georgia residents may only enroll in Georgia State Online courses and programs when their state has authorized GSU as a provider.

Georgia State is a member of NC-SARA

As an institutional-participant in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), and as a SACSCOC-accredited public institution, Georgia State University has met authorization requirements or is exempt from seeking authorization in the states, districts and territories that are part of the NC-SARA program.

See details and find your state: Georgia State’s state authorization.

Programs Leading to Professional Licensure

Education programs leading to professional licensure or certification (nursing, education, social work, counseling, Accounting, and allied health professions, etc.) may require additional approval from separate licensing boards, depending on the state. Prior to enrolling in any program intended to satisfy a particular state’s educational requirements for the practice of a particular occupation, students should contact the program coordinator to verify the program actually meets the requirements for the state in which he or she intends to practice.

Consumer complaint information

To file a complaint with Georgia State University’s regional accreditor, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC):  Complete the Commission’s Complaint Form and send two print copies to the President, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097. (To access the Commission’s complaint policy, procedures, and the Complaint Form, please see Complaint Procedures Against the Commission or Its Accredited Institutions.) Please read the document carefully before submitting a complaint. View state-specific instructions for consumer complaint processes.