NC-SARA
Vermont State University (VTSU) has been approved to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). NC-SARA was established to help expand students’ access to educational opportunities and ensure more efficient, consistent, and effective regulation of distance learning programs. add link to internal spot.
Two critical components of the VTSU mission are:
- To assure students are well served in a rapidly changing educational landscape;
- To increase the quality and value of higher education credentials earned through distance education programs.
State Distance Education Complaint Process
If you have a serious complaint against the University related to online learning, please be reminded that there are specific processes for you to follow in seeking resolution. If you have any concerns, your Student Success Advisor (SSA) will be able to direct you to the right office to begin the resolution process. You can reach out to your SSA via email or phone. VTSU encourages students to inform the University of their concerns as soon as possible. We want to know what your concerns are so that we can address them promptly and fairly. In the event that you feel your concern has not been addressed in a reasonable period of time and in accordance with the VTSU procedures, you may contact the entities below to file a formal complaint.
The U.S. Department of Education requires institutions offering distance education programs to provide enrolled and prospective students with contact information of the state agency or agencies that handle complaints against postsecondary institutions offering distance learning within that state. These agencies typically require that all institutional procedures be followed before reviewing any concerns raised by the student.
- Vermont State University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). All programs offered by VTSU are encompassed by this accreditation. Information regarding the NECHE complaint process can be found on their website: https://www.neche.org/comments-complaints/
- Vermont NC-SARA Portal Agency at https://nc-sara.org/student-complaints
- Complaint Resolution State of Vermont Agency of Education
- Complaint resolution contacts for out-of-state students: Relevant agency in the student’s state of residence