3-2.01 An IHE based educator preparation program that leads to licensure in Arkansas must meet the following requirements:

3-2.01.1 Undergraduate first-time licensure programs and exception area licensure endorsement programs must be aligned to the Arkansas Educator Competencies for the licensure areas offered.

3-2.01.2 Prior to implementation of an educator preparation program, a public institution of higher education in Arkansas and an out-of-state institution of higher education offering programs (including programs with online coursework) to candidates in Arkansas shall be approved by the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board (AHECB) to offer certificate and degree programs leading to educator licensure in Arkansas;

3-2.01.3 An institution of higher education that offers programs in Arkansas leading to educator licensure shall be accredited by a national or regional accrediting agency that is recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA);

3-2.01.4 IHE-based EPP is considered eligible by the Division to provide professional education programs leading to educator licensure in Arkansas if it meets standards and requirements set forth in the Protocol for the Review and Approval of Programs of Study Leading to Educator Licensure in Arkansas approved by the State Board.

3-2.02 Each IHE shall collaborate with the Division of Higher Education to develop a strategic plan for increasing the number of teachers and administrators of minority races and ethnicities in the state.