Warning Signs Of A Bad Distance Learning Program
Distance learning is a hot business right now, and unfortunately some distance learning programs are just looking to make a profit. These programs promise an easy degree from home, low tuition costs, and make higher education seem like a cakewalk. Students need to see themselves as buyers when looking for a distance learning program. And the phrase "buyer beware" has never been more appropriate.
Here's how to spot a bad distance learning program:
It falsely claims to be accredited. Accreditation means that a school meets national education standards. Valid and respectable accreditation can be traced back to two main organizations - the U.S Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). There are about six main regional accrediting agencies that follow the guidelines of Department of Education and the CHEA. In addition, there is also the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC), an accrediting agency that recognizes distance learning programs. Stay away from distance learning programs whose "accreditation" cannot be traced back to these legitimate groups.
It doesn't provide contact information. A solid distance learning program should provide a physical address and phone number as part of its contact information. Students should be able to get in touch with a real live person, at a real university if needed.
It over-promises. Be skeptical of distance learning programs that make outrageous claims. Examples would be lines like "earn a Ph.D. from home in less than six months," or "earn your law degree online, in only one year." Higher education will always be challenging and time-consuming - distance learning programs that promise otherwise should not be trusted.
The education market literally offers hundreds of respectable and valid distance learning programs, so don't be fooled by the bad ones. With a little research, you can sidestep the fakes and enroll in the right distance learning program for you.