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Education / Credentials
When you need to verify academic background or professional certifications.
Prioritized Sources & Techniques
1st
LinkedInS1
Self-reported education history (verify against authoritative sources)
2nd
Google Scholar / ORCIDT4
Published research lists institutional affiliation at time of publication
3rd
State Professional LicensesT1
License records list qualifying education
4th
NCSBN NursysT2
Nursing license verification includes education program
5th
State Bar AssociationsT10
Bar admission records list law school attended
6th
FINRA BrokerCheckT9
Registration records list qualifying exams passed
7th
USPTOT3
Patent filings list inventor credentials and affiliation
Recommended Workflow
LinkedIn is a starting point but must be verified. Google Scholar ties an individual to an institution through published work. Professional license databases are the most authoritative source for credentialed fields.