Student Criminal Background Checks

As specified under the University Admissions Policy, certain programs require students to submit to and satisfactorily complete a criminal background check as a condition of admission, re-admission and/or participation in education experiences. Accepted applicants and current students are responsible for the costs associated with obtaining criminal background checks. Students who refuse to submit to a background check or who do not pass the background check may be dismissed from the program.

Graduating students seeking professional certification and/or licensure to practice in the state of Texas may be denied employment opportunities based on unsatisfactory criminal background checks as determined by licensing agencies and employers.

Students seeking internships or employment as teachers in the state of Texas should be aware that many Texas school districts require applicants for student teaching or field experiences to undergo a criminal history background check prior to placement in the school district. School districts may deny placement of students with a criminal background. If a school district denies a placement for this reason, the student’s department may attempt to assist the student in obtaining a placement in an alternate district. Students should be aware, however, that if they are unable to obtain a placement, they may not meet requirements for a teaching degree or teacher certification. Additionally, The Texas State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) regulates the certification of educators to teach Texas public school children. Before an individual can be certified, SBEC must conduct a criminal background check to ensure an applicant’s suitability to interact with children. Working with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the agency conducts statewide criminal history background checks on all applicants for educator certification. Students pursuing educator preparation should be aware that some criminal histories may lead to the denial of certification as a teacher. Students may obtain additional information from SBEC.