In order to ensure compliance with state authorization requirements, the University of Findlay (UF) sought and received approval to become recognized as a State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) institution. SARA is a national initiative to provide more access to distance education courses (e.g., online, out-of-state student learning experiences) while maintaining compliance standards with state regulatory agencies. SARA allows institutions to provide distance education courses outside of its state borders by seeking and maintaining state approvals via a streamlined process. Read more about SARA here: http://www.nc-sara.org/.
As a member of SARA, UF is authorized to offer distance courses in each state that is part of the agreement without having to get approval from each state individually. States currently participating in SARA are designated on the following website (http://www.nc-sara.org/content/sara-state-status) as being approved as a SARA state.
SARA also includes on-the-ground activities that occur outside of Ohio's borders, which will dramatically help with UF's state authorization efforts. SARA permits UF to place students in a student learning experience[1] in an approved SARA state. There are placement limitations that UF must adhere to in order to remain in compliance (less than 10 students per program).
Academic offerings may be approved in some states other than SARA states. Students should contact their academic advisor to verify availability. Advisors will work with the Office of Academic Affairs to determine availability.
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[1] The term “supervised field experiences” is defined in the first section of the NC-SARA Policies and Standards. Definition: “Supervised field experience” means: a student learning experience under the oversight of a supervisor, mentor, faculty member or other qualified professional, located in the host state, who has a direct or indirect reporting responsibility to the institution where the student is enrolled, whether or not credit is granted. Examples include practica, student teaching, or internships. Independent off-campus study by individual students not engaged in a supervised field experience is exempt from requirements of this compact and does not constitute a physical presence of a postsecondary institution in a SARA member state.
Disclosure Regarding Licensure
The University of Findlay participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (NC-SARA), a nationwide agreement among member states, districts, and territories that establishes comparable national standards; however, NC-SARA does not deal with professional licensing board approval for any courses or programs leading to professional licensure. If you are not a resident of Ohio, and you are taking an online course or program leading to professional licensure, the University of Findlay recommends you visit this page to confirm whether a particular program meets requirements for professional licensure outside of the State of Ohio. The University of Findlay recommends that you consult with the appropriate licensing agency or board in your state or territory – including states participating in NC-SARA – BEFORE beginning any academic program or coursework. It is the student's responsibility to confirm program eligibility for licensure in any state outside Ohio.