The law authorizes DPL to license all private occupational schools operating in Massachusetts, subject to certain important exceptions. Learn more here.
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Welcome to the home page for the DPL Office of Private Occupational School Education.
Unless otherwise noted on the Division of Professional Licensure’s website, an occupational school’s license may remain current beyond its expiration date if that school has submitted a timely and sufficient application for renewal.
Effective August 1, 2012, DPL has assumed responsibility for the licensing and regulation of private occupational schools (also known as "proprietary schools") and sales representatives, pursuant to G.L. c. 112, § 263.
DPL will bring to occupational schools its mission of protecting the public health, safety, and welfare by licensing qualified businesses and individuals to provide occupational education to students, and by fair and consistent enforcement of the licensing laws and regulations.
Among other things, G.L. c. 112, § 263 authorizes DPL to:
• License qualified private occupational schools and sales representatives;
• Adopt rules and regulations governing the licensure and operation of
private occupational schools;
• Approve curriculum, instructors, and staff;
• Investigate complaints and conduct inspections;
• Discipline licensees for noncompliance; and
• Sanction unlicensed individuals and entities for operating without a license.
Pursuant to the Acts of 2012, the Division of Professional Licensure (DPL) became responsible for licensing and regulating private occupational schools (also known as “proprietary schools”) and sales representatives under M.G.L. c. 112, s. 263. Previously, occupational schools and sales representatives were licensed and regulated by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
DPL will work with the Advisory Council created by G.L. c. 112, § 263 to develop new regulations, policies, and procedures.
Students who believe that a school or a sales representative is not complying with the law can call the DPL telephone line for occupational schools at (617) 727-6917, or file a written complaint.
Schools, sales representatives, students, and other affected individuals and entities are encouraged to consult this web site and its links to ensure that they have the latest information on applicable regulations, policies, and procedures. Schools and sales representatives must use current DPL forms to apply for licensure and for other purposes. Important information about the occupational schools licensed by DPL may be found on the About Occupational Schools page.