As I have been reading here for a few weeks I've noticed multiple posts concerning degrees from the UK and South Africa, etc. What is the utility of degrees granted from outside the US? Are they recognized by American employers? How do you determine if they are "accredited". Everytime I read a post about a college I've not heard about I always look up their website. How are those of you obtaining degrees outside of the US determining where you enroll?
Mr. Help: Please do a search on this site for the term "GAAP." While it is a complicated subject, degrees awarded by properly recognzied foreign universities are considered comparable to those awarded by accredited schools in the U.S.
At the risk of being labeled a shill I'd suggest that the first thing you do is go buy youself a copy of John Bears Guide to Distance Learning. I know there are others available but, frankly, I'v never bothered with them. Aside from being a good overall look at DL, there are sections on acquiring non-US degrees. Most of the known non-US schools are listed as are the degree-mills. If you pay attention to those lists you won't get into trouble. As for the question of utility, this depends a lot on what field you're in, the reason you're getting the degree (goals, etc), and your reason for looking "offshore." In other words, it's too complicated a scenario for someone to give you a straight answer to that question without a lot more info. Go buy the book. It's worth it. Jack
Accreditation In the United Kingdom the term "Charter" is the accreditation policy of that country. Becareful! When an organization claims that they are "Chartered" make sure it is by the Queen of England and not some bogus corporate charter. That is my understanding. Use on your own accord.
