Most Penn State programs or certificates meet licensure requirements* in Pennsylvania, but some programs might not satisfy licensure requirements in other states or territories. Students who plan to pursue licensure outside of Pennsylvania should be aware that professional licensure and certification requirements vary from state to state and that state licensure requirements are subject to change. A program may initially meet the licensure’s educational requirements. Changes in a state’s requirements could impact whether the program meets new academic requirements.

Interactive State Licensure Disclosure Dashboard

The University has created an interactive map and dashboard which provide information about state requirements and prerequisites to determine whether a program meets a state or territory’s requirements. Students are strongly encouraged to visit this dashboard. Information provided is updated annually in April of each year.

Federal Regulatory Requirements

CFR § 668.43 states that “If the institution has made a determination under paragraph (a)(5)(v) of this section that the program’s curriculum does not meet the State educational requirements for licensure or certification in the State in which a prospective student is located, or if the institution has not made a determination regarding whether the program’s curriculum meets the State educational requirements for licensure or certification, the institution must provide notice to that effect to the student prior to the student’s enrollment in the program. (2) If the institution makes a determination under paragraph (a)(5)(v)(B) of this section that a program’s curriculum does not meet the State educational requirements for licensure or certification in a State in which a student who is currently enrolled in such program is located, the institution must provide notice to that effect to the student within 14 calendar days of making such determination. (3)(i) Disclosures under paragraphs (c)(1) and (2) of this section must be made directly to the student in writing, which may include through email or other electronic communication.”

Recommendations for Prospective and Current Students

• Visit the interactive licensure map and dashboard for information about state requirements and prerequisites to determine whether a program meets your state or territory’s** requirements.
• Contact the appropriate licensing agency for current information or guidance before beginning a program.
• If you are considering relocating out of the state of Pennsylvania at any time during the program, you should contact your college to check for authorization and licensure eligibility requirements. Relocating during a program could impact whether you can continue in the program, meet the state’s eligibility, and/or receive financial aid funding.

*Licensure and certification requirements may include professional examinations, background checks, years of work experience, fingerprinting requirements, etc.

**Student Location – For the purpose of professional licensure/certification, the student location is defined as the permanent address on file in LionPATH, the university’s student information system.