The policies discussed in this section refer to programs and classes that are taught at a distance (“online”) or face-to-face (“residential”). Various federal and state guidelines — depending on a student's current location — govern whether online programs meet that state or territory's requirements for higher education, as well as if counseling courses will prepare students to obtain the necessary license or certification to practice in a particular location. 

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State Authorization

The U.S. Department of Education oversees compliance with regulations governing the ability of institutions to offer online programs to students located outside of California. Learn whether CIIS' online programs are authorized in your state or U.S. territory.

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Professional Licensure

In the United States, LMFT, LPCC, and Psychologist licenses are regulated by each individual board and state. Since CIIS is a California university, we have aligned all of our programs to California's requirements; other states and countries may have different licensing requirements. Learn whether a degree from CIIS meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification where you intend to practice.