Diploma Mills
What are diploma mills?
Businesses that sell illegitimate academic degrees or diplomas without providing real education.
What is accreditation?
This process ensures that educational institutions meet certain quality standards, and it's required for participation in federal student aid programs.
Are diploma mills illegal in the United States?
No, technically there is no federal law that would prohibit them! But some states have taken action to stop them.
What is a red flag when evaluating an online degree program?
No mention of accreditation!
When did the accreditation process begin in the U.S?
In the late 19th century!
Accreditation!
Why is accreditation important?
It makes sure that the institution meets certain educational standards to ensure its real and truth worthy.
Fines/ Imprisonment!
What is a common tactic that diploma mills use to attract students?
Promising degrees in an unusually short amount of time.
What country has the most diploma mills?
The United States!
Why are diploma mills bad?/ What are the negative sides to diploma mills?
They devalue actual degrees and can lead to unqualified people in professional positions.
Can a diploma mill be accredited?
No, real agencies do not accredit diploma mills.
How many states in the U.S consider diploma mills illegal/legally restricte
13 States: Texas, Washington, New Jersey, North Dakota, Oregon, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, South Dakota, Virginia and Indiana.
What is a good practice to ensure a school is legitimate?
Research on the school's reputation and verify its accreditation.
What was the first accreditation association?
The New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
What is another word for a diploma mill?
A degree mill
The U.S Department of Education's Database
or schools website
What is the role of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in combating diploma mills?
The FTC investigates and shuts down fraudulent institutions.
What does it mean if a school’s address is a P.O. Box or virtual office?
Its not a real campus!
What major event led to the formalization of accreditation standards?
The GI Bill after World War II