State Authorization for Online and Distance Education
Thomas University complies with federal and state law regarding the delivery of distance education.
State Reciprocity
Thomas University complies with federal and state law regarding the delivery of distance education.
Thomas University has been approved by the State of Georgia to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements. NC-SARA is a voluntary, regional approach to state authorization and oversight of post-secondary distance education.
Participation in NC-SARA allows students from states outside of Georgia to take advantage of TU’s quality online programs. For a list of participating states please visit NC-SARA.
Non-SARA States and Territories
An overview of Thomas University’s ability to offer online programs and other activities in states and territories that are not members of SARA is below.
- California: Thomas University may offer distance education programs to CA residents. Because Thomas University does not meet the definition of physical presence in CA, field/clinical experiences, practica, student teaching, and internships are allowed.
- Federated States of Micronesia: The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has no regulations, policies, or laws that restrict US institutions providing distance education, including online courses, to citizens of FSM.
- Republic of the Marshall Islands: There are no regulations or rules in the Republic of the Marshall Islands regarding the authorization of distance education programs.
Information is currently unavailable for the following: American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Republic of Palau. This site will be updated as information becomes available.
Academic Programs Leading to Licensure
Participation in SARA has no effect on state professional licensing requirements. It is the responsibility of the student to contact the appropriate licensing agency or Board in his or her state of residency, prior to beginning a course of study, to understand the requirements as it applies to a specific situation. Refer to Professional Licensure and Professional Licensure Directory for more information.
Thomas University programs leading to licensure or certification are listed below. Refer to each one for more information about professional licensure and certification.
Master of Science in Counseling
Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science.
Student Complaints
Students who have questions, concerns or complaints about online education, please consult Thomas University’s Student complaint Process.
