State authorization allows Lander University to offer online programs to students who live outside of South Carolina or enroll students in learning placements that will take place outside of South Carolina (such as internships, clinicals, practicums, and student teaching).
The National Council of State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (NC-SARA) is a national initiative that increases student access to distance education courses and programs while maintaining compliance with state regulations. Forty-nine states (all except California) currently participate in NC-SARA. To learn more about NC-SARA and member states, visit: https://www.nc-sara.org/.
Lander University has been approved to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements. With this membership Lander University programs are automatically available to students who reside in the 49 participating states.
At present, California is the only state that has not yet joined the NC-SARA initiative. Though California is not a member of NC-SARA, Lander University is able to offer online education in California. The California Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education does not regulate out-of-state public institutions. Therefore, Bureau approval for Lander University to offer educational activities in California is not required.
Professional Licensure Information
NC-SARA membership does not grant reciprocity or exemption from state professional licensing board requirements. Lander University graduates meet eligibility requirements for professional licensure in South Carolina. Prospective students residing in other states who are interested in an online academic program from Lander University should inquire with the appropriate licensing agency in their home state to determine if the program will meet eligibility requirements for licensure or certification. Graduates must complete professional licensure and certification requirements in the state of their residency. Contact information for state licensing agencies for Lander University programs that might lead to licensure or certification in other states can be found on the NC-SARA Professional Licensure Directory.
Lander University's 100% online programs are not designed to lead to state-level professional licensure. The M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning does not lead to initial licensure and is designed for students who are already certified teachers. The M.S. in Nursing is designed for practicing nurses who are already licensed practitioners. The RN-BSN program requires that incoming students have and maintain a current nursing license as an RN in the state where they will attend clinicals.
Student Complaints
Students enrolled in academic programs at Lander University who wish to file a complaint should first file a complaint with Lander University by submitting the complaint form found here.
If the complaint is not resolved by Lander University, students residing in an NC-SARA member state may file a complaint with the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (SCCHE). The SCCHE will only consider complaints that were previously unresolved by the University. The SCCHE policy and procedures information is found here.