Initial licensure
Applying to the CIE to license a new nonpublic postsecondary institution.
Florida private postsecondary licensure
Commission for Independent Education (CIE) Licensure & Compliance
The bulk of Mark V. Murray’s practice is representing private postsecondary educational institutions in Florida, including assisting schools with compliance issues before the Florida Commission for Independent Education.
Call (850) 907-3301 Request a free consultationNonpublic postsecondary institutions in Florida are licensed by the CIE under Chapter 1005, Florida Statutes, and must meet the Commission’s rules in Chapter 6E, Florida Administrative Code. Mark can assist with routine licensing work and, when problems arise, with legal representation.
Routine CIE licensing help
Renewals & annual reports
License renewals, annual reporting, and other recurring obligations to the Commission.
Program approvals
Requests to add or modify programs at a licensed institution.
Ownership & location changes
CIE requirements when an institution changes ownership, relocates, or adds a location.
Ongoing compliance
Meeting the standards of Chapter 1005, Florida Statutes, and Chapter 6E, Florida Administrative Code.
Legal representation when problems arise
CIE investigations & complaints
Responding to complaints, investigations, and notices from the Commission.
Disciplinary proceedings
Representation before the Commission when disciplinary action is proposed against an institution.
License denials, revocations & appeals
Challenging a proposed denial or revocation, including hearings before the Division of Administrative Hearings (DOAH) and appeals.
Board of Nursing matters
Regulatory and enforcement matters for nursing programs before the Florida Board of Nursing and Department of Health.
Every matter is different; no particular outcome can be guaranteed.
Why institutions work with Mark
- More than 15 years working with CIE-licensed schools
- 27 years of legal experience, including appellate and administrative law
- 10 years as a career staff attorney with Florida’s First District Court of Appeal
- Law office in Tallahassee since 2009
- Registered lobbyist with experience in Florida’s legislative and executive branches
- Also represents nursing programs before the Florida Board of Nursing
Mark V. Murray is a private attorney and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education or the Florida Department of Education.
Learn more about Mark or see who he serves.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Florida Commission for Independent Education (CIE)?
The CIE is the commission within the Florida Department of Education responsible for licensing nonpublic (private) postsecondary educational institutions in Florida under Chapter 1005, Florida Statutes. Its rules are found in Chapter 6E of the Florida Administrative Code.
Which schools are licensed by the CIE?
Generally, independent nonpublic postsecondary institutions operating in Florida, such as private career, vocational, and degree-granting schools. Some institutions may be exempt or regulated by other agencies. Whether a particular school needs a CIE license depends on its specific facts.
Can Mark help a school that is not yet licensed?
Yes. Mark can assist founders and owners with the CIE licensure process for a new institution.
Does Mark handle Florida Board of Nursing matters too?
Yes. In addition to CIE matters, Mark represents private nursing programs before the Florida Board of Nursing, the Department of Health, and the Division of Administrative Hearings.
Is the first consultation free?
Yes. The initial consultation is free of charge. Please do not send confidential information until an attorney-client relationship has been established.
Is this page legal advice?
No. This page provides general information only. Every institution’s situation is different, and no particular outcome can be guaranteed.
Received a notice of deficiency, a complaint, or a proposed denial? Contact Mark to discuss your institution’s options.
Call (850) 907-3301 Request a free consultationTalk with Mark about your CIE matter
Whether you are opening a new school, adding a program, or responding to the Commission, the initial consultation is free.
Call (850) 907-3301 Request a free consultation