Background Checks
Fingerprinting and Background Checks
A cleared background check is required for all field experiences: practicum, internship, and student teaching. Background checks for school-based experiences must be logged in the COOL system (Colorado Department of Education). All background checks must go through the CBI and FBI and reported to the correct entity (CDE or the College of Education). The College of Education will provide a voucher for ONE background check per student.
The College of Education does NOT issue reimbursements for fingerprinting appointments. Your voucher code will not work if you have already scheduled your appointment.
Program-Specific Background Checks
Clinical Mental Health Students and Campus Connections Mentors
You will receive a payment voucher code from your instructor or field placement coordinator.
- Register online for a fingerprinting appointment with Identogo.
- After your fingerprinting appointment, use the linked button below to upload a copy of your receipt from the email you received from Identogo. Alternatively, you may scan (or take a CLEAR picture) and upload a copy of the paper receipt given to you during your fingerprinting appointment.
- The results of your background check will be reported directly to the College of Education.
See this document for detailed instructions: Fingerprinting Instructions 2024-25 (Clinical Mental Health & Campus Connections)
Initial Teacher Licensure and School Counselor Students
You will receive a payment voucher code from your instructor or field placement coordinator.
- Set up your COOL account. Indicate UCCS as your "preparation program".
- Register online for a fingerprinting appointment with Identogo.
- After your fingerprinting appointment, use the linked button below to upload a copy of your receipt from the email you received from Identogo. Alternatively, you may scan (or take a CLEAR picture) and upload a copy of the paper receipt given to you during your fingerprinting appointment.
- The results of your background check will be reported directly to the Colorado Department of Education.
See this document for detailed instructions: Fingerprinting Instructions 2024-25 (Initial Teacher Licensure & School Counseling)