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Programs Leading to Licensure or Certification

Western Carolina University offers many programs leading to professional licensure or certification. If you are considering a degree program which leads to professional licensure or certification, it’s important for you to understand if the program meets the requirements in the state you are planning to reside and work.

States vary in what professions they require to be licensed and how licensure functions.  Some states require an individual to graduate from an approved program. Others require an individual to meet certification requirements of a specific national professional organization. A specific amount of training can also be required as well as passage of an exam based on a state requisite exam score. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with Western Carolina University and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time. 

Search our state Licensure Dashboard to see if the program you’re interested in meets the educational requirements for licensing/certification in your home state (or state where you intend to work).

Students should review the specific academic requirements for the program in which they are enrolling, including pre-qualifications for licensure. It is highly recommended that students communicate with the academic degree program or Program Director to best understand the professional licensure/certification questions and enrollment options prior to enrolling in the program. Students not residing in North Carolina should contact the applicable licensure board(s) in their state of residence or in the state where they intend to obtain a license before beginning an academic program that leads to licensure. Many licensure organizations have additional requirements beyond successful degree completion to obtain a license. Please be advised that state laws, regulations, and policies may change at any time. It is the responsibility of the student completing the licensure program to check with the licensing organization(s) in their state of residence or in the state in which they intend to obtain a license for the most recent information and requirements. Western Carolina University shall not be held liable if the student is unable to qualify for licensure or certification in any jurisdiction. 

Relocating to another state while enrolled in a program leading to licensure or certification may have impacts if the student can remain in the program, meet the state licensure or certification requirements and/or continue to receive financial aid funding. 

If you have questions regarding any program not listed on the Professional Licensure Dashboard, please contact the Program Director. Many degree programs do not involve a professional licensure or certification. Additional program information can be found on the Programs of Study page.

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