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NC-SARA Information

State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is approved by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education (ADHE) to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (NC-SARA) to offer online programs and courses to out-of-state students. NC-SARA provides states a mechanism for monitoring the quality of online programs delivered by out-of-state colleges and universities to its citizens. Institutions that are members of SARA are authorized to provide online education to students from all SARA member states.

SARA applies solely to distance education activity conducted across state lines. It does not apply to the distance education activity of an institution within its home state or on-ground campuses in any state.

UAFS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Distance education courses and programs are approved by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.

UAFS is committed to ensuring that its distance learning programs and courses are intellectually stimulating and professionally rewarding. Online classes are taught by qualified faculty who are highly trained in using the Blackboard learning management system for course development and delivery.

Complaint & Grievance Procedures

Complaints regarding student grades or student conduct violations are governed entirely by UAFS policy and the laws of the state of Arkansas. The UAFS Academic Grievance Process is outlined in the UAFS Undergraduate Academic Catalog and the UAFS Student Handbook.

Please note that students who wish to file a complaint relating to an online course or program offered by UAFS must first go through the UAFS procedures for the resolution of grievances. If after exhausting the institutional process a student feels a complaint has not been adequately addressed, they may file a complaint with the ADHE by completing the student complaint form. Resolutions by ADHE are final.

To file a complaint regarding an online course or program, please complete the following form. You will be contacted within five (5) business days after the complaint is received.