Federal regulations mandate that the University of the Ozarks disclose whether its degree programs align with the educational requirements for licensure in U.S. jurisdictions (34 CFR 668.43(a)(6) & 34 CFR 668.72(n)).
The programs offered by the University of the Ozarks are designed to prepare students for careers in professions that require licensure. Graduates typically need to obtain a professional license to practice or gain employment in these fields.
Licensure and certification requirements differ across states and territories and may involve additional factors such as exams, background checks, work experience, and fingerprinting.
Students should be aware that state-specific licensure and authorization rules may affect their ability to continue their studies or access financial aid if they relocate during their program. Students considering a move are advised to reach out to the program coordinator to confirm eligibility and licensure requirements in the new location.
Teacher licensure requirements differ by state and often include more than just completing a degree. Graduates seeking licensure may need to meet additional criteria, such as submitting an application, paying applicable fees, and passing required state licensure exams. Completing a teacher preparation program at the University of the Ozarks will not automatically qualify graduates for licensure in states other than Arkansas.
The following programs at the University of the Ozarks are approved by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education and the Arkansas Department of Education. Students who complete these programs and pass the necessary state licensure exams are eligible to receive a recommendation for Arkansas Educator Licensure.
- Elementary Education K-6
- Biology (Life Science) Education 7-12
- English Education 7-12
- Mathematics Education 7-12
- Art Education K-12
- Physical Education and Health K-12
- Business Education 4-12
Students who wish to obtain a teaching license in a state other than Arkansas should consult the relevant licensing authority in that state to verify that the University of the Ozarks’ program meets the state’s educational requirements for licensure eligibility. Contact details for state departments of education can be found on the U.S. Department of Education website and are also listed below.
Please be aware that students enrolled in the University of the Ozarks’ education programs are only authorized to participate in field experiences and/or student teaching within the state of Arkansas.
For more information regarding University of the Ozarks Education Licensures and Education Programs please contact Pam Smith at psmith@ozarks.edu
![Sunday Stories - Despite starting out shy in her first semester, Meri Emongo, a senior here at Ozarks, has grown to become co-founder and president of the She Ignites Club, an organization dedicated to the empowerment of women on campus.
“It’s meant to be a safe space to celebrate the diversity of women on campus,” Meri said.
This is partially based on a group that Meri has back home called “Sit with the Women,” and it is about “women getting stronger together in their faith.” Meri and her fellow officers wanted to bring a piece of this “sisterhood” to Ozarks.
The events have been a huge hit as more and more women engage with the club. Now that Meri is graduating, she is hopeful the organization will continue to thrive for many years to come.
Meri is an international student from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Her sister, who was living in the U.S., helped her apply to several universities. Ozarks stood out not only because of its financial aid package but its curriculum.
“I think the LENS program is one of the best things the University has to offer, and I really took advantage of it,” she said.
Though Meri is majoring in finance, “I have an art side too,” she said. Her minor in art has been an outlet to explore her creative side – especially when it comes to photography.
Meri has taken several photography classes, even though they were not all requirements for her degree; “Its a good thing to explore a different side of me besides just my major from freshman year to graduation. Now I know I can have a camera, I can charge people for pictures now; it’s something [else] I can do.”
Meri believes people end up where they are meant to be: “Just because life isn’t what you expected it to be, doesn’t mean this is the wrong path,” she said.
“Who would have thought: ‘Meri, not knowing much English or about studying in the U.S., would be creating changes on campus?!’ I’m proud I’m part of this.”
Feature produced by Communications Studies major Phoenix Mertin](https://ozarks.edu/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png)