State Authorization

Programs Leading to State-Regulated Professional Licensure or Certification

This resource is intended to help students, applicants, and prospects better understand the connection that many FGCU programs have to state-regulated professional licensure or certification. While specific requirements can and often do vary by state, typically, requirements include earning a degree or other educational credential in the field from an institution and program that meet certain eligibility requirements in that state (e.g., accredited status). To be eligible to apply for licensure or certification, graduates must often meet additional criteria such as passing a state or national exam, working in field for a minimum period of time, and/or completing a certain number of clinical hours.

The FGCU programs listed below provide preparation for practicing in fields in which state-regulated professional licensure or certification may be available. If your career plans include pursuing licensure or certification, it is important to become educated on the credentialing requirements of the state in which you hope to practice. This page was created as a starting point to help connect you to this information. Clicking on the program of interest below will open additional information regarding state licensing outside of Florida and contact information for program personnel who can help answer specific questions in this regard and who will do their best to connect you to the credentialing requirements of the state in which you intend to practice.

FGCU is a member of SARA (State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements) and approved by the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.

BEFORE APPLYING

Professional Licensure or Certification Information provides important disclosures about professional licensure and certification outside of Florida to current and prospective students.

For additional guidance provided by NC-SARA, refer to their information page on Professional Licensure.

https://nc-sara.org/resources/professional-licensure

Select professions (e.g. accountants, social workers, physician assistants, etc.) require you obtain licensure or certification beyond your degree in order to hold a position in that field. Professional licensure regulations and requirements vary from field to field, from state to state and may vary from year to year.

Florida Gulf Coast University’s academic programs prepare students to meet the educational requirements for professional licensure or certification in the state of Florida. For students considering a program that leads to licensure or certification, at this time, FGCU cannot determine whether our programs meet the licensing requirements in every state for every program.

Each state and U.S. territory has an authority, be it public or private, that is responsible for overseeing the licensure requirements of the various professions in that state. If you plan to pursue state-regulated professional licensure or certification in any state outside of the state of Florida, please contact the appropriate licensing agency or agencies. We have provided lists below to request information and additional guidance before beginning or continuing a program that leads to licensure or certification. If you have questions, please contact your FGCU academic advisor or program coordinator.