By: Miguel Padilla
We're all familiar with them. The catchy jingles, interviews of smiling, hopeful students gushing about how fast their road to a degree was, unassuming buildings nestled in strip malls illuminated by signage. For-profit colleges, dismissively referred to as 'degree mills' by some, vie for our attention through advertising. But what are
they really? And do they truly deserve the negative reputation they have garnered?
For-profit schools, like the University of Phoenix and DeVry University, boast above-average acceptance rates, adaptable class schedules, and educational programs tuned for career readiness. That said, these schools offer programs that are generally not regionally accredited, meaning the credits earned from these courses cannot be transferred to state colleges. The programs they offer do not meet the academic standards recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, which forms the baseline for the accreditation process.
Job potential is still there, however, as most are nationally rather than regionally accredited, meaning there is at least some vocational, trade, or religiously recognized merit in program
accreditation. Because these schools operate on a for-profit basis, there's a natural sway in prioritizing shareholder interests, which has implications for student learning. Non-profit schools on the other hand must appeal to licensing boards, and prove their funds accrued are being actively reinvested back into the student body, something For-Profit’s are not beholden to.
The most valuable metric by far is job acquisition, given the prevailing notion that education paves the way for a better life. While For-Profit schools may not have the best track record for graduation, some do have higher success rates of post-grad job attainment.
For-Profit Colleges tend to be less affordable than community
colleges, lack necessary accreditation for transfer to state colleges, and run on a business model that may or may not be ethically dubious to some. The technical and skill based focus of these colleges however may benefit some, especially those looking for a quick degree through a postsecondary schooling alternative. These colleges undeniably carry some significant drawbacks, and have earned their reputation through the voices of many students who’ve attended these schools.
Beneficial to some, financially reckless for most, For-Profit colleges should be cautiously considered by those looking to attend.
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