The Qualified Professional (QP) Initiative simplifies and strengthens the pathway into Mental Health, intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), and Substance Use service delivery by expanding the education criteria used to determine QP status. 

Legislative Rule Change

Through a legislative rule change passed by the North Carolina General Assembly, individuals who hold an associate degree in human services—along with two years of experience—will soon be able to qualify as QPs.

Qualified professionals in mental health care include psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, counselors and psychiatric nurses.

This important update recognizes the depth, rigor and real-world relevance of the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree programs in Social and Human Services. These graduates bring critical, hands-on skills and practical training that directly align with the responsibilities of qualified professionals so they can serve more people in North Carolina with mental health, IDD and/or substance use care needs.

Once the implementation process is complete and the rule change is formally activated by the Mental Health Commission, this updated standard will help open a new and vital workforce pipeline—without compromising quality or lowering standards.

Why it Matters in North Carolina  

Many rural and underserved counties struggle to hire and retain qualified professionals because requirements (e.g. bachelor’s degree or higher) limit the candidate pool. Expanding eligibility helps tap into community college graduates already embedded in their communities.

This approach tackles the workforce gaps, especially in underserved counties, because community college graduates are more likely to stay in their home regions.

How the Qualified Professional Initiative Works

The Qualified Professional Initiative supports pathways that align education, experience, and workforce strategies to help providers build and sustain a qualified workforce across North Carolina.

Education Requirements

Eligible candidates must hold a qualifying associate degree. In North Carolina, the AAS in Social and Human Services is offered by 41 community colleges. This is the only associate's degree from the NC Community College system that includes the sufficient human services coursework required for QP roles. Associate degrees in human services earned outside of the North Carolina Community College System may also qualify, provided the coursework meets the human services requirements outlined in the legislation.

Required Work Experience

In addition to education, candidates must complete two years of work experience serving the population supported by their role. This combination of education and experience prepares individuals to meet the qualifications for QP positions. Once the new rule is activated by the NC Mental Health Commission, providers across the state can hire QPs under the updated education standards.

Workforce Strategies Under QPI

These optional strategies help providers align education and experience while building sustainable pathways into Qualified Professional roles.