Degree Authorization

Any private or out-of-state institution wishing to operate as a degree-granting institution in the state must seek authorization from the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC). "Operate" is defined as having a physical presence—anything from a campus to a mailing address or phone or fax number, advertising and recruiting that specifically targets residents of the state, or offering distance learning degree programs that include required field placements which take place in Washington State. The list of currently authorized institutions is available on our Colleges & Institutions webpage. 

Degree Authorization

The Degree-Granting Institutions Act requires all degree-granting institutions operating in Washington to obtain authorization, unless WSAC determines they are exempt, or they participate in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) and their operations fall within SARA guidelines. Washington's public colleges and universities and certain other private and religious institutions are exempt from the requirements of authorization. 

Factors considered in determining authorization include an institution's financial stability, accreditation status, academic programs, and faculty as well as staff qualifications. Authorization does not imply an endorsement of the institution or its programs by WSAC. It means only that the institution and its programs meet minimum state operating standards.

There are approximately 100 authorized or exempt institutions in Washington. Authorization is program and site-specific. Each program and site must be reviewed every two years. Any of the following activities could trigger the need for authorization or exemption:

• Offering degree programs or credit-bearing courses at or from a physical location in the state.
• Recruiting or advertising in a manner that specifically targets state residents.
• Placing online-learning students in clinicals, externships, rotations, etc. required for their program.
• Maintaining a physical presence in the state as defined in WAC 250-61-050(17).

Current Requests for Authorization

Faith International University

Moody Bible Institute

Applying for Institutional Authorization

Degree-granting colleges and universities seeking authorization to operate in Washington should contact WSAC at DegreeAuthorization@wsac.wa.gov. Private vocational and technical schools seeking a license to offer diploma or certificate programs in state should contact Washington's Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board.

Steps in the Authorization Process

1. Existing institutions should prepare a brief description of the planned activities.
   New institutions should develop a detailed proposal:
   Develop an administrative structure and define the degrees and programs your college or university would like to offer in Washington State. 
   Outline proposed areas and level of study, the mode of delivery (distance education or classroom-based) and a potential location.

2. Contact us to set up a meeting. Please call us at least one year prior to the proposed start of operations. We will discuss the application process, the areas of review, and the details of your proposal during the meeting.

3. Complete and submit the application. We will review your application and contact you if we have questions or need further clarification. 

Other Resources

Licensing Entities

The Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board licenses private career schools that offer diplomas and certificate programs of a vocational or technical nature. 

Accreditation

WSAC and other Washington State government agencies do not act as accrediting bodies. Private organizations accredit institutions and their programs. Accreditation is a means of self-regulation and peer review by educational and professional communities. Accreditation is voluntary and may cover specific programs or an entire institution. In order for an accrediting agency to be recognized as valid in Washington, it must be recognized the U.S. Department of Education. 

We have prepared a list of accrediting agencies recognized by WSAC and the U.S. Department of Education. The U.S. Department of Education reviews some accrediting agencies and maintains a list of those it recognizes. To learn more, visit the U.S. Department of Education website.

Degree Authorization Quarterly Activities