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Accreditation and Licensing

State Approvals, Authorizations, Certifications, Exemptions, Licenses, and Registrations

In addition to accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and specific program accreditations, South University holds the following state approvals, authorizations, certifications, and licenses:

StateStatement
AlabamaSouth University, Montgomery, qualifies for exemption from the requirements of licensure by the Department of Postsecondary Education in the State of Alabama pursuant to the Code of Alabama §16-46-3(a)(7), as amended. An exemption pursuant to this section shall not be construed to constitute approval or endorsement by the state of Alabama for any purpose (135 S Union St; Montgomery, AL 36104-4340 or PO Box 302130; Montgomery, AL 36130-2130; 334-293-4500; www.accs.edu).

South University, Savannah, is exempted from programmatic review by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education pursuant to the Code of Alabama §16-5-10 (14).  South University, Savannah is licensed by the Alabama Community College System, Private School Licensing Division (P.O. Box 302130 Montgomery, AL 36130-2130, Private School Licensure - Alabama Community College System (www.accs.edu).
AlaskaSouth University is exempt from authorization by the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education (PO Box 110505; Juneau, AK 99811-0505; 907-465-6741; https://acpe.alaska.gov/) under AS 14.48 and 20 AAC 17 because the program is online or distance delivered and does not have a physical presence in the state.
ArizonaWithout a physical presence in Arizona, South University is not required to seek approval from the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education (1740 West Adams Street, Suite 3008, Phoenix, AZ 85007, 1.602.542.5709, https://ppse.az.gov/).
ArkansasThe Arkansas Department of Education, Higher Education Coordinating Board (423 Main Street, Suite 400; Little Rock, AR 72201; 501-371-2000; https://portal.arkansas.gov/state_agencies/department-of-education/arkansas-higher-education-coordinating-board/) has granted South University certification for degree programs by distance technology.  Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board certification does not constitute an endorsement of any institution or program. Such certification merely indicates that certain criteria have been met as required under the rules and regulations implementing institutional and program certification as defined in Arkansas Code §6-61-301.
California

Without a physical presence in California, South University is not required to seek approval from the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education under the California Private Postsecondary Act of 2009 (https://www.bppe.ca.gov/lawsregs/ppe_act.pdf).

The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program, if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss.  Unless relived of the obligation to do so, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for the fund STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition.

You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program.

It is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents the amount paid to the school.  Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95833, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.

To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:

  • The institution, a location of the institution, or an educational program offered by the institution was closed or discontinued, and you did not choose to participate in a teach-out plan approved by the Bureau or did not complete a chosen teach-out plan approved by the Bureau.
  • You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution within the 120 day period before the closure of the institution or location of the institution, or were enrolled in an educational program within the 120 day period before the program was discontinued. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution more than 120 days before the closure of the institution or location of the institution, in an educational program offered by the institution as to which the Bureau determined there was a significant decline in the quality or value of the program more than 120 days before the closure.
  • The institution has been ordered to pay a refund by the Bureau but has failed to do so.
  • The institution has failed to pay or reimburse loan proceeds under a federal student loan program as required by law, or has failed to pay or reimburse proceeds received by the institution in excess of tuition and other costs.
  • You have been awarded restitution, a refund, or other monetary award by an arbitrator or court, based on a violation of this chapter by an institution or representative of an institution, but have been unable to collect the award from the institution.
  • You sought legal counsel that resulted in the cancellation of one or more of your student loans and have an invoice for services rendered and evidence of the cancellation of the student loan or loans.

To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the student eligible for recovery from STRF.

A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of non-collection may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery.  If it has been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law.

However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.

ColoradoWithout a physical presence in Colorado, South University does not qualify for authorization from the Department of Higher Education (1560 Broadway, Suite 1600; Denver, CO 80202; 303-866-2723; https://cdhe.colorado.gov/).
ConnecticutSouth University is authorized by the Connecticut Office of Higher Education (450 Columbus Blvd, Suite 707, Hartford, CT 06103; Phone: 860-947-1800; Office of Higher Education) the institution is approved to offer online courses/programs to Connecticut residents.
DelawareSouth University has been granted full approval to operate with degree-granting authority in the State of Delaware Department of Education (Townsend Building, 401 Federal Street Suite 2, Dover, DE 19901-3639; 302-735-4000; https://education.delaware.gov/)
District of ColumbiaSouth University does not recruit or enroll District of Columbia residents.
FloridaSouth University is exempt from licensure by the Commission for Independent Education, Florida Department of Education, per Florida Statute 1009.89. Additional information regarding this institution may be obtained by contacting the Commission at 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0400, toll-free telephone number (888)224-6684.
GeorgiaSouth University, Savannah, meets the criteria for an exemption from the Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission's (NPEC 2082 East Exchange Place, Suite 220, Tucker, GA 30084-5305; 770-414-3300) regulations as outlined in O.C.G.A. § 20-3-250.3(a)(14).
HawaiiWithout a physical presence in Hawaii, South University is exempt from authorization requirements with the Hawaii Department of Education
IdahoWithout a physical presence in Idaho, South University is not required to register with the Idaho State Board of Education (650 West State St, Suite 307; PO Box 83720; Boise, ID 83720-0037; 208-334-2270; https://boardofed.idaho.gov/).
IllinoisSouth University meets the criteria for an exemption based on its limited physical presence in Illinois as defined under the Illinois Administrative Code Section 1030.10 (Ill. Admin. Code tit. 23 § 1030 (2017)). As such, South University has been granted exemption from the Illinois Board of Higher Education (431 East Adams St, 2nd Floor; Springfield, IL 62701-1404; 217-782-2551; 
https://www.ibhe.org/).
IndianaSouth University is authorized by the Indiana Commission for Higher Education (101 West Ohio Street, Suite 300 Indianapolis, IN 46204-4206; 317-464-4400; https://www.in.gov/che/) as an out-of-state institution with no physical presence in Indiana to enroll and offer online instruction or distance education to Indiana residents delivered from a campus in another state in accordance with Indiana Administrative Code IC 21-18.5-6-12.
IowaSouth University is a registered university with the Iowa Department of Education (Bureau of Iowa College Aid) to operate within the State of Iowa for the purpose of offering postsecondary educational programs to Iowa residents. (Iowa Department of Education (Bureau of Iowa College Aid), 475 SW 5th St., Suite D, Des Moines, IA 50309; toll-free phone 877-272-4456; https://educate.iowa.gov/higher-ed). Student complaint form: 
https://educate.iowa.gov/higher-ed/student-complaints 
KansasThe Kansas Board of Regents has granted a Certificate of Approval that legally authorizes South University to provide postsecondary education to the State of Kansas (Kansas Board of Regents, Private Postsecondary Education Division; 1000 Southwest Jackson, Suite 520; Topeka, KS 66612-1368; 785-430-4240; https://www.kansasregents.gov/).
KentuckySouth University is licensed by the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (1024 Capital Center Drive, Suite 320, Frankfort, Kentucky, 40601, 502-573-1555, http://cpe.ky.gov).
LouisianaSouth University is currently licensed by the Board of Regents of the State of Louisiana (PO Box 3677, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3677; 225-342-4253; https://www.laregents.edu/). Licenses are renewed by The State Board of Regents every two years. Licensed institutions have met minimal operational standards set forth by the state, but licensure does not constitute accreditation, guarantee the transferability of credit, nor signify that programs are certifiable by any professional agency or organization.
MaineSouth University is exempt from the oversight of Maine law due to lack of physical presence in the State (23 State House Station; Augusta, ME 04333-0023; 207-624-6600; 
https://www.maine.gov/doe/learning/highered).
MarylandSouth University is registered with the Maryland Higher Education Commission (6 N. Liberty Street, 10th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201; 410-767-3300; https://mhec.maryland.gov/Pages/default.aspx) per the requirements of the Education Article, Title 11, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland and COMAR 13B.05.01 to enroll Maryland students in fully online distance education programs. The Commission's registration of the University's fully online programs is not an authorization of the institution to operate in Maryland or an approval or endorsement of the University's programs.
MassachusettsSouth University does not recruit or enroll Massachusetts residents.
MichiganWithout a physical presence, South University is not required to be authorized by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (PO Box 30018, Lansing, MI 48909; 517-373-1820).
MinnesotaSouth University is registered with the Minnesota Office of Higher Education (1450 Energy Park Drive, Suite 350, St. Paul, MN 55108-5227, 651-642-0567, www.ohe.state.mn.us) pursuant to Minnesota Statutes sections 136A.61 to 136A.71. Registration is not an endorsement of the institution. Credits earned at the institution may not transfer to all other institutions.
MississippiAs of February 19, 2025, South University is no longer authorized by the Mississippi Commission on College Accreditation and is no longer enrolling Mississippi residents.
MissouriWithout a physical presence, South University is not required to be authorized by the Missouri Department of Education
MontanaSouth University authorized by the Montana University System (2500 Broadway; PO Box 203201; Helena, MT 59620-3201; 406-444-0345; www.montana.edu) to offer post-secondary degree programs in the State of Montana
NebraskaWithout a physical presence, South University is not required to be authorized by the Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education.
NevadaSouth University is licensed to operate by the Nevada Commission on Postsecondary Education; 8778 South Maryland Parkway, Suite 115, Las Vegas, Nevada 89123; 702-486-7330.
New HampshireSouth University has received administrative approval from the Higher Education Commission of the State of New Hampshire's Department of Education-Division of Higher Education (101 Pleasant Street, Concord, NH 03301; 800-339-9900) to offer educational programs in accordance with the New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules (POS 1008).
New JerseyWithout a physical presence, South University is not required to be authorized by the New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education.
New MexicoSouth University is registered with the New Mexico Higher Education Department, 2044 Galisteo Street, Suite 4, Santa Fe, NM 87505; Phone Number:  505-476-8400.
New YorkSouth University does not recruit or enroll New York residents.
North CarolinaSouth University, High Point is licensed by the University of North Carolina Board of Governors to offer degree programs under matters regulated by General Statute 116-15 (University of North Carolina General Administration, PO Box 2688; Chapel Hill, NC 27515-2688; 919-962-4558;  http://www.northcarolina.edu/).
North DakotaSouth University has met the North Dakota University System's requirements for ND Century Code 15-18.1-02.8 Exemptions. (10th Floor, State Capitol, 600 East Boulevard Ave, Dept. 215; Bismarck, ND 58505-0230; 701-328-2960; www.ndus.edu/system/).
OhioSouth University holds a Certificate of Authorization from the Ohio Board of Regents.
OklahomaSouth University is authorized by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education (655 Research Pkwy #200, Oklahoma City, OK 73104; 405-225-9100; https://okhighered.org/).
OregonSouth University does not recruit or enroll Oregon residents.
PennsylvaniaWithout a physical presence in Pennsylvania, South University is not required to apply for approval from the Department of Education (333 Market St; Harrisburg, PA 17126-0333; 717-787-4448; https://www.pa.gov/agencies/education/programs-and-services/instruction/postsecondary-and-adult-education.html).
Puerto RicoSouth University does not recruit or enroll Puerto Rico residents.
Rhode IslandSouth University does not recruit or enroll Rhode Island residents.
South CarolinaSouth University, Columbia is licensed by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, 
(1122 Lady Street, Suite 400, Columbia, SC 29201, 803-737-2260, www.che.sc.gov) as a nonpublic postsecondary institution. Licensure indicates only that minimum standards have been met; it is not an endorsement or guarantee of quality. Licensure is not equivalent to or synonymous with accreditation by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
South DakotaWithout the physical presence in South Dakota, South University is not required to be authorized by the Secretary of State - Postsecondary Education.
TennesseeWithout a physical presence in Tennessee, South University is not required to apply for approval from the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (404 James Robertson Pkwy, Suite 1900; Nashville, TN 37243; 615-741-3605; www.tn.gov/thec).
TexasSouth University, Austin is exempted by the Texas Workforce Commission under Texas Education Code, Section 132.002(a)(6). Exemption means that this campus of South University is not approved or regulated by the Texas Workforce Commission (101 E 15 St; Austin, TX 78778-0001; 512-463-2222; www.texasworkforce.org).

South University, Austin and South University, Savannah (Online Programs) each hold the Certificates of Authorization acknowledging exemption from the regulation by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board as defined in Chapter 7.3 of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board's rules (PO Box 12788; Austin, TX 78711 or 1200 E. Anderson Lane; Austin, TX 78752; 512-427- 6200; www.thecb.state.tx.us).
UtahSouth University holds a Certificate of Postsecondary State Authorization from the Utah Division of Consumer Protection (160 East 300 South, Second Floor, Salt Lake City, UT 84111; 801.530.6601).  This Certificate of State Authorization verifies that the school has met the requirements of Utah Code Ann. §13-34a-204 to be a registered postsecondary school required under 34 C.F.R. 600.9 to be legally authorized by the State of Utah.
VermontWithout a physical presence in Vermont, South University is not required to seek approval from the Vermont Department of Education and the Vermont State Board of Education (120 State Street; Montpelier, VT 05620-2501; 802-828-3135; www.education.vermont.gov).
VirginiaSouth University, Richmond, 2151 Old Brick Road, Glen Allen, VA 23060 and South University, Virginia Beach, 301 Bendix Road, Suite 100, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 are certified to operate in Virginia by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (James Monroe Building, 101 North 14th St; Richmond, VA 23219; 804-225-2600; www.schev.edu).
WashingtonSouth University does not enroll Washington residents into field placement programs.  As a result, South University is not required to be authorized by the Washington Student Achievement Council.

For Washington State residents seeking information and resources about student loan repayment or seeking to submit a complaint relating to your student loans or student loan servicer, please visit www.wsac.wa.gov/loan-advocacy or contact the Student Loan Advocate at 
loanadvocate@wsac.wa.gov.
West VirginiaSouth University is authorized by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission (1018 Kanawha Blvd East, Suite 700; Charleston, WV 25301; 304-558-2101; www.hepc.wvnet.edu).
WisconsinSouth University has been approved and is legally authorized to do business in the state of Wisconsin by the Educational Approval Board as a private postsecondary school, subject to the provisions of §38.50 Wisconsin Statutes, and all administrative rules adopted pursuant to the statutes. Approval includes on those programs and those locations specifically approved by the Board (431 Charmany Drive, Suite 102; Madison, WI 53719; 608-266-1996; https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/EducationalApproval/Default.aspx).
WyomingSouth University is licensed by the Wyoming Department of Education as an accredited postsecondary private degree granting institution under Wyoming Statutes §§21-2-401 through 21-2-407 and in accordance with the Chapter 30 Rules and Regulations of the Wyoming Department of Education (Hathaway Building, 2nd Floor, 2300 Capitol Avenue, Cheyenne, WY 82002-0050; 307-777-7675; https://edu.wyoming.gov).

Programmatic Accreditation

Anesthesiologist Assistant

The Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia Science Program at South University, Orlando is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Accreditation Review Committee for the Anesthesiologist Assistant (ARC-AA). Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, 9355 - 113th Street North, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775.

The Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia Science Program at South University, Savannah is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Accreditation Review Committee for the Anesthesiologist Assistant (ARC-AA). Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, 9355 - 113th Street North, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775.

The Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia Science Program at South University, West Palm Beach is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Accreditation Review Committee for the Anesthesiologist Assistant (ARC-AA). Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, 9355 - 113th Street North, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775.

Business

The following business programs at South University, the Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs ([ACBSP] 11520 West 119th Street; Overland Park, KS 66213; 913-339-9356; www.acbsp.org). Other programs in the College of Business are excluded from ACBSP's scope of accreditation. These programs include: Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Master of Healthcare Administration, Master of Public Administration, Bachelor of Science to Master of Science in Accounting, Master of Public Administration, Master of Science in Accounting, Master of Science in Information Systems, Master of Science in Human Resources Management, Master of Science in Leadership and Doctor of Business Administration.

Clinical Mental Health Counseling

The Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling programs at South University's campuses in Columbia, SC, Richmond, VA, Savannah, GA, and West Palm Beach, FL are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, 500 Montgomery Street, Suite 350, Alexandria, VA 22314, (703)-535-5990.

Medical Assisting

The South University Medical Assisting Programs on the Columbia and Savannah campuses are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB)."  Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP); 9355 - 113th Street North, #7709, Seminole, FL 33775, 727-210-2350.

The Associate of Science in Medical Assisting program offered at Montgomery and through South University’s online programs is not accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org).

Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs at South University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).

South University, Savannah, is initially approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing to offer the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (237 Coliseum Dr. Macon, GA; 844-753-7825; https://sos.ga.gov/georgia-board-nursing ).

South University, Montgomery, is approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing to offer the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (PO Box 303900; Montgomery, AL 36130-3900; 800-656-5318; www.abn.alabama.gov).

South University, Tampa, South University, Orlando, and South University, West Palm Beach, are approved by the Florida Board of Nursing to offer the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin C-02; Tallahassee, FL 32399-3252; 850-488-0595; www.floridanursing.gov.)

South University, High Point is approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing to offer the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (PO Box 2129; Raleigh, NC 27602; 919-782-3211; www.ncbon.com).

South University, Columbia, is approved by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, South Carolina Board of Nursing to offer the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (PO Box 12367; Columbia, SC 29211; 803-896-4550; www.llronline.com/POL/Nursing).

South University, Austin is approved with warning by the Texas Board of Nursing to offer the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (333 Guadalupe St, Suite 3-460; Austin, TX 78701; 512-305-7400; www.bon.texas.gov).

South University, Richmond, and South University, Virginia Beach, are approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing to offer the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Perimeter Center; 9960 Maryland Dr, Suite 300; Henrico, VA 23233-1463; 804-367-4515; www.dhp.virginia.gov/nursing/default.htm).

The Arizona Board of Nursing has approved South University to offer the APRN MSN degrees through distance delivery (1740 W. Adams Street, Suite 2000; Phoenix, AZ 85007; www.azbn.gov).

Occupational Therapy Assistant

The Occupational Therapy Assistant program at South University, Richmond, and Tampa are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 510E, Bethesda, MD  20814. ACOTE's telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-AOTA, and its web address is 
http://www.acoteonline.org.

Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapy assistant administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).  After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). In addition, all states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination. Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate's ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure. More information on ACOTE may be obtained at 
http://www.acoteonline.org.

Pharmacy

South University's Doctor of Pharmacy program in Savannah, GA, is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education 190 S LaSalle ST #3000; Chicago, IL 60603; 312-664-3575; www.acpe-accredit.org.

Physical Therapist Assistant

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at South University, Austin, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 512-516-8744 or email drcollins@southuniversity.edu.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at South University, Columbia, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 803-935-9725 or email tswander@southuniversity.edu.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at South University, Montgomery is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 334-395-8822 or email miday@southuniversity.edu.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at South University, Richmond, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 804-727-6881 or email mselden@southuniversity.edu.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at South University, Savannah, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 912-393-3793 or email vnash@southuniversity.edu.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at South University, Tampa, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 813-393-3793 or email dbrawner@southuniversity.edu.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at South University, Virginia Beach, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 757-496-6979 or email lgarone@southuniversity.edu.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at South University, West Palm Beach, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 561-273-6418 or email ljaffe@southuniversity.edu.

Physician Assistant

The ARC-PA has granted Accreditation-Provisional status to the South University, Austin Physician Assistant Program sponsored by South University, Austin.

Accreditation-Provisional is an accreditation status granted when the plans and resource allocation, if fully implemented as planned, of a proposed program that has not yet enrolled students appear to demonstrate the program’s ability to meet the ARC-PA Standards or when a program holding Accreditation-Provisional status appears to demonstrate continued progress in complying with the Standards as it prepares for the graduation of the first class 
(cohort) of students.

Accreditation-Provisional does not ensure any subsequent accreditation status. It is limited to no more than five years from matriculation of the first class. The program’s accreditation history can be viewed on the ARC-PA website at http://www.arc-pa.org/accreditation-history-south-university-austin/

The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) has granted Accreditation-Continued status to the South University, Savannah Physician Assistant Program sponsored by South University. Accreditation-Continued is an accreditation status granted when a currently accredited program is in compliance with the ARC-PA Standards.

Accreditation remains in effect until the program closes or withdraws from the accreditation process or until accreditation is withdrawn for failure to comply with the Standards. The approximate date for the next validation review of the program by the ARC-PA will be October 2035. The review date is contingent upon continued compliance with the Accreditation Standards and ARC-PA policy. The program's accreditation history can be viewed on the ARC-PA website at: http://www.arc-pa.org/accreditation-history-south-university-savannah/ 

The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) has granted Accreditation-Continued to the South University, Tampa Physician Assistant Program sponsored by South University. Accreditation-Continued is an accreditation status granted when a currently accredited program is in compliance with the ARC-PA Standards.

Accreditation remains in effect until the program closes or withdraws from the accreditation process or until accreditation is withdrawn for failure to comply with the standards. The approximate date for the next comprehensive review of the program by the ARC-PA will be March 2027. The review date is contingent upon continued compliance with the Accreditation Standards and ARC-PA policy. The program's accreditation history can be viewed on the ARC-PA website at: http://www.arc-pa.org/accreditation-history-south-university-tampa/

The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA) has granted Accreditation-Continued status to the South University Richmond PA Program sponsored by South University Richmond. Accreditation-Continued is an accreditation status granted when a currently accredited program is in compliance with the ARC-PA Standards.

Accreditation remains in effect until the program closes or withdraws from the accreditation process or until accreditation is withdrawn for failure to comply with the Standards. The approximate date for the next validation review of the program by the ARC-PA will be 2031 March. The review date is contingent upon continued compliance with the Accreditation Standards and ARC-PA policy. The program’s accreditation history can be viewed on the ARC-PA website at http://www.arc-pa.org/accreditation-history-south-university-richmond/.

The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA)  has granted Accreditation- Continued  status to the South University, West Palm Beach Physician Assistant Program sponsored by South University, West Palm Beach.

Accreditation remains in effect until the program closes or withdraws from the accreditation process or until accreditation is withdrawn for failure to comply with the Standards. The approximate date for the next validation review of the program by the ARC-PA will be July 2035. The review date is contingent upon continued compliance with the Accreditation Standards and ARC-PA policy. The program’s accreditation history can be viewed on the ARC-PA website at http://www.arc-pa.org/accreditation-history-south-university-west-palm-beach

Public Health

Master of Public Health (MPH) at South University is an applicant for accreditation by the Council on Education for Public Health. The accreditation review will only address the MPH degree at South University. Other degrees and areas of study offered by South University will not be included in the unit of accreditation review.

For additional information concerning the application and accreditation process, please visit CEPH’s website, ceph.org.

Veterans Affairs

Veteran and Military Services

A Veterans Affairs (VA) school certifying official is available at each campus to assist students with benefit information. The financial aid office can direct students to the appropriate University personnel.

South University is required to obtain and evaluate all previous post-secondary and military transcripts for students using Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Defense (DoD) education benefits. For all students receiving VA and DoD education benefits, it is the student's responsibility to provide official transcripts from all post-secondary educational institutions and military training and experience.  For students attending schools located in the state of Alabama, the VA State Approving Agency require South University to hold certification of enrollment to the VA for students who have failed to provide official transcripts by the completion of the second term.

Veterans Education Act

The Veterans Education Act provides varying levels of assistance to eligible veterans, disabled veterans, and their dependents. If you are a veteran or the dependent of a veteran, contact the local Veterans Affairs office in your region, visit www.gibill.va.gov.

U.S. Departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense Education Benefits
South University has been approved by the veteran state approving agency in the states listed below for the training of veterans and eligible veterans' dependents. Where applicable, utilizing the Department of Veterans Affairs education benefits may receive assistance from the School Certifying Official in the filing of appropriate forms. These students must maintain satisfactory attendance and academic progress (refer to the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy of the catalog for more information). Students receiving veterans' benefits must report all prior education and training. South University will evaluate prior credit and accept that which is appropriate. South University will not impose any penalty or late fees, deny access to classes, libraries, or other campus facilities, or require a covered individual to borrow additional funds due to delayed payments from the VA under chapter 31 or 33. Students with questions should contact the veteran state approving agency for the state in which their campus operates.

Alabama:  South University, Montgomery, is approved for the training of veterans and other eligible individuals by the Alabama State Approving Agency under the Code of Alabama §§ 31-6-1, et seq. In accordance with Alabama state approving agency policy, it is required that all transcripts are on file and all prior learning has been evaluated for transfer into the student's educational program by the completion of two (2) academic terms.  Failure to have an evaluation completed by this timeframe will result in a suspension of the student's certified attendance to the VA until an evaluation is complete.  Students with questions should contact the Alabama State Approving Agency (P.O. Box 302130, 135 South Union Street, Montgomery, AL 36104; Phone: 334-293-4664; Fax: 334-293-4663; www.accs.cc).

Florida:  South University, Tampa, South University, Orlando and South University, West Palm Beach, are approved for training veterans and other eligible individuals by the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs, Bureau of State Approving Agency for Veterans Education, Training. In accordance with Florida state approving agency policy, it is required that all transcripts are on file and all prior learning has been evaluated for transfer into the student's educational program.  Students with questions should contact the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs, Bureau of State Approving Agency for Veterans Education, Training (9500 Bay Pines Boulevard, Room 214; Bay Pines, FL 33744; 727-319-7402; www.floridavets.org).

Georgia: South University, Savannah, is approved for training veterans and other eligible individuals by the State of Georgia Department of Veterans Services' Veterans Education and Training Division (Floyd Veterans Memorial Building., Suite E-970; Atlanta, GA 30334-4800; 404-656-2306 or 404-656-2322; http://sdvs.georgia.gov/).

North Carolina: South University, High Point is approved for the training of veterans and eligible veterans' dependents by the North Carolina State Approving Agency.

South Carolina:  South University, Columbia, is approved for the training of veterans and other eligible persons by the State Approving Agency.  In accordance with South Carolina state approving agency policy, it is required that all transcripts are on file and all prior learning has been evaluated for transfer into the student's educational program by the completion of two (2) academic terms.  Students with questions should contact the South Carolina State Approving Agency (1122 Lady Street, Suite 300, Columbia, SC 29201; 803-737-2260; www.che.sc.gov).

Texas: South University, Austin, is approved for training veterans and other individuals by the Texas Veterans Commission (PO Box 12277, Austin, TX 78711-2277; 800-252-8387; www.tvc.state.tx.us).

Virginia: South University, Richmond, and South University, Virginia Beach are approved for training veterans and other eligible individuals by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services, State Approving Agency Veterans Education, Training and Employment (101 North 14th Street, 17th Floor; Richmond, Virginia 23219; 804-225-2083; http://www.dvs.virginia.gov/).

The Virginia State Approving Agency (SAA) approves education and Virginia training programs. Our office investigates complaints of GI BILL ® beneficiaries. While most complaints should initially follow the school grievance policy, if the situation cannot be resolved at the school, the beneficiary should contact our office via email at 
saa@dvs.virginia.gov” “GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by the VA is available at the official U.S. government website at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

For students using Veterans Affairs (VA) education benefits, any complaint against the school should be 
routed through the VA GI Bill® Feedback System by going to the following website: http://www.benefits.va.gov/GIBILL/Feedback.asp. The VA will then follow up through the appropriate channels to investigate the complaint and resolve it satisfactorily.

As a Department of Defense Memorandum of Understanding education institution participant and signatory, South University is approved for Tuition Assistance. Eligibility for Tuition Assistance varies by military branch. Military spouses may also be eligible to use Department of Defense educational benefits under the Military Spouse Career Advancement Scholarship (MyCAA) program. Service members or military spouses wishing to use Department of Defense education benefits must obtain approval from their respective military branch or the Department of Defense prior to starting the course.

While benefit and eligibility information is provided by South University, the ultimate approval of a student's ability to use a particular benefit is determined by the respective government agency offering the benefit.   Eligible service members, veterans and dependents may contact the Student Financial Services department at South University to learn more about these programs and participation. For additional information, visit www.southuniversity.edu.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site 
at http://www.benefits.va.gov/GIBILL/Trademark_Terms_of_Use.asp.

Courses Pending VA Payment

Section 103 of Public Law (PL) 115-407, ‘Veterans Benefits and Transition Act of 2018,’ amends Title 38 US Code 3679 by adding a new subsection (e) that requires disapproval of courses of education, beginning August 1, 2019, at any educational institution that does not have a policy in place that will allow an individual to attend or participate in a course of education, pending VA payment, providing the individual submits a ( certificate of eligibility can also include a “Statement of Benefits” obtained from the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) website e-Benefits, or a VAF 28-1905 form for chapter 31 authorization purposes) and ending on the earlier of the dates below for entitlement to educational assistance under Chapter 31 or 33.

Pending Payment Compliance

In accordance with Title 38 US Code 3679(e), South University adopts the following additional provisions for any students using U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Post-9/11 G.I. Bill® (Ch. 33) or Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Ch. 31) benefits, while payment to the institution is pending from VA. South University will not:

  • Prevent the student’s enrollment;
  • Assess a late penalty fee to the student;
  • Require the student to secure alternative or additional funding;
  • Deny the student access to any resources (access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities) available to other students who have satisfied their tuition and fee bills to the institution.

This will remain until the earlier of the following dates.

  1. The date on which payment is made to the institution
  2. 90 days after the date the institution certified tuition and fees following the receipt of the certificate of eligibility.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Vocational Rehabilitation Programs

Every state has programs to help people with physical and mental disabilities. Some states offer retraining programs for people who have been out of the job market for a length of time, for example. Eligibility criteria and amounts vary according to federal, state and private agency regulations. Students must apply directly to and be approved for benefits through the appropriate federal, state, or private agency. For more information, contact your local vocational rehabilitation office, unemployment office, or your state department of human resources.

Active Duty Grant

South University is pleased to offer an Active Duty Grant to eligible Active Duty service members and Active and Drilling members of the Reserve and National Guard.

For undergraduate programs, the cost of tuition will be $166.00 per quarter credit hour after the Active Duty Grant is applied.

For graduate level programs, South University offers an Active Duty Grant of 10%.

Military members must have a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and a current Leave and Earning statement on file before eligible.

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