State Authorization

State Authorizations

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) is an approved institutional participant in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). This membership allows UNL to offer distance education programs to students in 49 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Through NC-SARA, UNL is authorized to operate in all participating states and territories. California, which has not joined the NC-SARA initiative, independently authorizes UNL to offer distance education programs to California residents.

As a nationally recognized institution serving students across the country, UNL complies with state regulations governing the delivery of distance education by maintaining required approvals or exemptions in each state or territory, as applicable. In certain locations, UNL qualifies for exemptions from formal state authorization where state regulations permit institutions meeting specific criteria to operate without separate approval.

UNL’s participation in NC-SARA ensures consistent consumer protections for students and simplifies the process for learners to access online programs offered outside their home state.

Map of US with states outlined

Licensure

In compliance with the U.S. Department of Education Federal Guideline 34 CFR §600.9(c), programs leading to licensure and and/or certification required for entry into the profession are listed online at https://executivevc.unl.edu/licensure. The states in which the program fulfills educational requirements necessary for licensure or certification are identified.

Complaint Procedures for Distance Programs

In compliance with US Department of Education regulations, procedures for filing grievances, complaints, or concerns are put in place to ensure you receive an expeditious, fair, and amicable resolution to your situation.

We ask that you first exhaust all possible internal avenues for resolution before filing complaints with external agencies.

In the unlikely event an issue cannot be resolved,

Policy and Procedure Resources

  1. Avatar for Kevin Shriner
    Assistant Vice Chancellor for Digital and Online Learning
    Work
    Address
    Office of Executive Vice Chancellor & Chief Academic Officer
    Phone
    Work (402)472-3751
    Email
    kshriner2@unl.edu