State Authorization
National Council for State Authorization of Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA)
State authorization refers to the process through which educational institutions comply with the state authorization regulations and requirements of each state in which they operate. Pursuant to Wis. Stats. Ch. 39.85, the State of Wisconsin is a member of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) through the Midwestern Higher Education Compact which regulates the manner in which participating institutions may offer distance learning education to students who reside in other states. The goal of state authorization is to ensure that educational institutions meet the standard set by each state's regulatory bodies, promoting the quality of education and safeguarding the interests of students. Compliance with state authorization is crucial for legal operation and to maintain the integrity of education across various geographical locations.
State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements
Participation in SARA provides a number of benefits, including reducing the burden on institutions to obtain approval from each state to operate. Other benefits include: improving distance education program quality, making it easier for students to access distance education programs across state lines, reducing cost and bureaucracy for institutions, improving coordination between states, and supporting consumer protection oversight of distance education programs provided by states.
Complaints
If a student has a complaint that involves distance learning education offered under the terms and conditions of SARA, the student must file a complaint with the institution first to seek resolution. Contact the Dean of Students Office to file a complaint either online, via phone (262) 472-1533, or via email deanofstudents@uww.edu. Students should follow the grievance procedure found on the UW-Whitewater Legal Policies page.
If no resolution is reached, then the student may file a complaint with the Wisconsin Distance Learning Authorization Board (DLAB) through the following State Authorization Reciprocity Complaint Process or by email to afgp@uwsa.edu. For purposes of this process, a complaint shall be defined as a formal assertion in writing that the terms of this agreement, or of laws, standards or regulations incorporated by the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements Policies and Standards have been violated by the institution operating under the terms of SARA.
Professional Licensure
All programs, regardless of modality, are required to provide public and direct disclosures to students in programs that lead to licensure or certification. This rule applies to educational programs that are either:
- Designed to meet educational requirements for a specific professional license or certification that is required for employment
- Advertised as meeting such requirements
Direct program disclosures can be found on the NC-SARA Professional Licensure page.