Have you ever considered getting an online degree but felt unsure about its authenticity? It’s difficult to tell which online degree programs are real and which are fake, right? How do you spot fake online degrees and online degree scams?
Here are eight things you can do to find out if an online degree is the real deal or not:
Research the school and verify its identity
Before enrolling in any online program:
- Do your research.
- Make sure the school is who they say they are.
- Check if the school has a physical office address and phone number.
Additionally, verify online degree accreditation. This includes checking if a recognised accrediting agency accredits the school and if it has any complaints against the school.
Check the program’s reputation
Look up the program’s reputation by checking online forums, social media, and other sources. See what people say about it and if it has a good reputation. Most importantly, see what current and former students have to say about the online degree program by reading their reviews and testimonials. It will give you a good idea of what to expect. Positive reviews from genuine students can provide reassurance about the program’s legitimacy.
Verify Faculty Credentials
The qualifications and experience of the faculty members teaching the online courses are essential indicators of the program’s quality. Verify that the instructors hold relevant degrees and have expertise in their field.
Check the curriculum
Look at the program’s curriculum and see if it’s relevant to your career goals. Check if the program offers any hands-on experience or internships. Reach out to alumni of the program and ask them about their experience. Ask about the program’s quality, the level of support they received, and if they could find a job after graduation.
Look for student support services
Check if the program offers student support services such as tutoring, career counselling, and academic advising. Getting assistance from these services can greatly contribute to your success in your program. A lack of adequate support services could indicate a scam!
Compare and verify the cost
While online education can be more affordable than traditional on-campus programs, excessively low tuition fees may indicate a scam. Check the program’s cost and see if it’s reasonable.
Compare the costs of similar online degree programs offered by reputable institutions to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. Be wary of programs that charge exorbitant fees or require you to pay upfront.
Check for financial aid
Look for online degree programs that offer financial aid, scholarships, or grants. These can help offset the cost of the program and make it more affordable.
Beware of Unrealistic Promises
If an online degree program promises you a degree quickly and with minimal effort, proceed with caution. A program that guarantees instant success or offers degrees for a flat fee is most probably an online degree scam. Legitimate online degree programs provide clear information about their curriculum, tuition fees, admission requirements, and support services. If you encounter vague or evasive responses to your questions, it could be a red flag.
An online degree can help you improve your education and career opportunities. In recent times, there have been instances of online degree scams. So, it’s important to be cautious and do your research to avoid scams and to ensure that you’re getting enrolled in a recognised online degree program.
If you’re seeking legitimate online degree courses in UAE or Dubai, explore our curated list of programs designed to empower your career journey.
Investing in education is an investment in your future, so choose wisely. Good luck!