State authorization is the federal, state, and professional licensing board regulations that impact online and on-ground education offered across state lines. State authorization ensures that a BSC degree will be recognized and that a student will be eligible to sit for licensure in states other than North Dakota. BSC is currently authorized to offer programs in some states, depending on the program, but BSC does not have state authorization for all programs in all states.

Bismarck State College has been approved by the State of North Dakota and the North Dakota University System to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). NC-SARA is a voluntary agreement among member states, districts, and territories that establish comparable national standards for interstate offerings of postsecondary distance education. Visit NC-SARA for more information.

For complaints that cannot be resolved through BSC's internal complaint process, please see the catalog for details, individuals may seek resolution at the state level. That process can be found on the Student Complaint Process page.

BSC is in the process of researching the state requirements for professional licensure in all of our programs that lead to eligibility for licensure. Each state has unique authorization requirements, so BSC must review each state’s laws to ensure that the university is in compliance.  If you are planning to seek a professional license or certification in a state other than North Dakota, it is strongly recommended that you contact the appropriate state licensing agency to determine all of the educational and other requirements for licensure or certification, before enrolling in a BSC program. Other requirements in a particular state may include, but are not limited to, additional post-graduation examinations or experience, application and licensing fees, criminal background checks, reference checks, fingerprint submissions, etc. 

Licensure requirements are always subject to change. Although BSC will attempt to confirm the licensure requirements on a routine basis, we strongly recommend that you inquire with the state board to confirm that you understand and will meet the requirements for licensure before enrolling in your program of choice.

Additionally, licensing requirements vary by state and relocating could impact whether you will meet eligibility requirements for licensure. Check with the state licensing agency where you desire licensure before relocating to ensure that you will be eligible for licensure or reciprocity and please notify your Program Advisor of your relocation and licensure intent in the new state.

If you have any questions or if you would like assistance in determining if your selected program is authorized in a particular state, please contact your advisor or Program Director.