Background Checks

Certain service learning courses require a background check and/or a drug screen. If your course requires these checks, you will be notified via email. Please check your UARK email account for specific instructions. Be aware that the failure to submit the proper documents may result in your inability to participate in the service learning course.

While most courses require only basic background check (nationwide criminal history and sex offender registry checks), some need specific screening such as a more in-depth background check and a drug screen. Social Work, for example, requires these steps for internship students, and this requirement is determined by the Field Supervisor.  The purpose of the background check is to protect everyone involved in service learning.

The standard procedures are as follow:

  • Fill out the Disclosure and Authorization via Qualtrics
  • Conduct the background check via Courthouse Concepts
  • Do the drug screen via Courthouse Concepts

These steps are conducted online. The links to Qualtrics survey and Courthouse Concepts will be sent to students via email from slcheck@uark.edu. Students submitting drug/alcohol screens will be directed to a CourtHouse Concepts drug testing location. Study Abroad students will receive the proper forms through the Hogs Abroad portal. 

All background check paperwork is valid for one year. Therefore, if you already did a background check within the past year, you do not need to take a new one. Please select the proper option when filling out your Qualtrics survey. Students are also allowed to conduct their background check with other trustworthy agencies. The document must be uploaded as an attachment via the Qualtrics survey. Service Learning background check staff will review and verify your paperwork. You may request a copy of your background check results, and the copies should be available within two to three business days.  

Any questions or concerns regarding background checks? Do not hesitate to contact us via slcheck@uark.edu. 

Note: As of summer 2021, the Service Learning Initiative no longer does Arkansas maltreatment checks for students because the process requires the greatest investment of time for our limited service learning staff. If your internship agency requires you to do maltreatment checks, we encourage them to complete the process which is free for non-profit agencies in Arkansas through the DCFS site.