Professional Licensure

Professional Licensure Disclosures and Distance Learning State Authorization

Applicants who are applying to programs that may lead to licensure in states other than Pennsylvania must be aware of the various state professional licensure requirements. Please check licensure requirements by occupation and state at CareerOneStop.

East Stroudsburg University's programs are designed to meet the requirements of the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) for recommending candidates for licensure/certification. If you are considering a program that leads to licensure/certification, or that you believe leads to licensure/certification, and plan to seek licensure/certification outside of Pennsylvania, it is your responsibility to seek guidance from the appropriate licensing agency BEFORE beginning the academic program.

Please know that federal and state regulations require legal authorization for postsecondary institutions to offer distance degrees, certificates, and courses, to students who live outside the institution's home state. This may also include online or campus-based courses or programs that include activities such as internships, externships, co-ops, field experiences, student teaching, and clinical placements in states outside of the institution's home state.

Licensure requirements by occupation and state can be found at CareerOneStop.

State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA)

The State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) is an agreement among member states, districts, and territories that establish a uniform set of guidelines and regulations surrounding distance education and online learning. It is intended to make it easier for students to take online courses offered by out-of-state institutions. SARA also allows students to complete out-of-state field experiences for programs that do not lead to licensure. It is one-hundred percent voluntary for states and institutions to join SARA.

Since January 1, 2017, ESU has been an approved institutional member of the National Council of State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (NC-SARA). Membership in SARA is intended to make it easier for students to take online courses/programs offered by postsecondary institutions based in another state. Participating in SARA allows ESU to provide online courses, and non-licensure field experience placements in all other SARA states, districts, and territories. See more information about SARA, including the states currently participating in the agreement.

Each state has its own set of standards and regulations for careers that require licensure (i.e., nursing, social work, k-12 teacher, etc.). The State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) does not cover regulations regarding professional licensure in reciprocating states, districts, and territories.

Evaluation of Conduct Record

Please be advised that programs leading to state licensure or certification may require evaluation of conduct records, such as but not limited to criminal background checks, as a condition of licensure. Specific questions regarding this matter should be directed to one’s advisor, department chair, or college dean.

Additional Links and Information

Licensure Pass Rates

• Licensure pass rates