What is CACREP accreditation?

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) is a program-level accrediting organization for counseling programs. CACREP accreditation is separate from UA Little Rock’s institutional accreditation.

Is CACREP accreditation the same as university accreditation?

No. CACREP accredits individual counseling programs. UA Little Rock is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Program-level accreditation and institutional accreditation are separate.

What is the current status of the three UA Little Rock MA Counseling Program tracks?

  • The Clinical Mental Health Counseling track is not currently CACREP accredited.
  • The Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling track is not currently CACREP accredited.
  • The Counselor Education track, which prepares students for K-12 school counseling, is an approved program by the Arkansas Department of Education, and meets educator preparation standards in Arkansas and most states.

UA Little Rock’s previous CACREP accreditation ended May 14, 2022.

Currently, an assessment is being conducted to determine the strongest path toward CACREP at UALR, along with ensuring the staffing levels needed based on CACREP standards.

Does graduating from a non-CACREP-accredited program prevent me from becoming licensed in Arkansas?

No. CACREP accreditation is not required for professional counselor licensure in Arkansas. Students must meet all requirements established by the appropriate Arkansas licensing authority.

What if I plan to become licensed outside Arkansas?

Students are encouraged to review the requirements for the state or jurisdiction where they intend to practice before enrolling and periodically throughout their program, as licensing requirements may change.

Completion of a UA Little Rock counseling degree does not guarantee eligibility for professional licensure in every state/jurisdiction.

  • Requirements vary by state/jurisdiction, and students who intend to practice outside Arkansas should review the requirements of the appropriate licensing authority.
  • Some states/jurisdictions allow graduates of non-CACREP programs to demonstrate that their education and clinical training meet equivalent requirements.
  • Other states/jurisdictions require graduation from a CACREP-accredited or otherwise specifically accredited program.

Where can I get more information?

  • Students should consult the licensing authority in the states/jurisdictions where they intend to practice for current licensure requirements.
  • The Counseling program can assist students with information about the UA Little Rock curriculum and program requirements, but licensing decisions are made by the appropriate licensing authority.

Updated September 3, 2026