License Research

License Research

State educator licensing offices create rules, regulations, and policies that govern all types of educator licensing. Licensure requirements generally include specific degree and course work components, background checks/fingerprinting, field experience, exam(s), and fees.

Licensure Research Steps

Every state has different licensing requirements. Follow the steps below to determine if Capella's program meets the requirements for your state

1. Find your state requirements

Each state has different licensure requirements. The best place to start is the state licensing office website.

Capella has created a map with a link to all state licensing websites.

Review all of the information on the website, particularly:

• Application for licensure.
• Policy manuals.
• Statutes and regulations/rules—these contain the specific license requirements. To help you read and understand statutes, regulations, and rules, review tips for reading these documents and common professional licensure terms.

2. Compare state requirements to your degree program

Capella offers programs approved in Minnesota, Arizona and Georgia that are designed to lead to a variety of types and levels of licensure or endorsement. See the Accreditation and Program Approvals page for more details

Capella does not currently offer any programs that are designed to prepare you for initial teaching licensure. If you are seeking your first teaching license, check your state's website for a list of approved programs

Most states will require an applicant for additional license or endorsement to complete a state approved program. However there are some exceptions that simply require passing a subject matter exam or completion of certain classes

Capella's state approved programs are:

• Master of Science in Education, Reading and Literacy.
• Master of Science in Education, Early Childhood Education.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Education, Special Education Leadership.
• Master of Science in Education, Leadership in Educational Administration.
• Education Specialist, Leadership in Educational Administration.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Education, Leadership in Educational Administration.
• Master of Science in School Counseling.
• Master of Science in Psychology, School Psychology plus graduate Certificate in School Psychology.
• Doctor of Psychology, School Psychology.

You should compare licensure requirements in your state, found in Step 1, with the Capella degree program you're considering or pursuing.

• Find program information in the current University Catalog. If you are currently a Capella student, view archived catalogs.
• View accreditation and state-approval information.

3. Consult with your state licensing office and/or Capella University licensing specialists

After comparing the licensure and program requirements, you should contact your state educator licensing office to clarify any questions. Find your state licensing website using this state-by-state guide..

• Find pointers for communicating with licensing offices.
• Remember that licensure requirements are more than a degree. Be sure you clearly understand the background check/fingerprinting, field experience, exam, and fee requirements in your state.

Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification, or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure and salary benefits. It is learners' responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for their state.