In recent years, there has been a proliferation of so-called checkbook credentialing agencies and diploma mills. Widespread use of the Internet, coupled with low-cost computer software and hardware, has brewed a recipe for deceit. In other words, unscrupulous individuals and companies stand ready to “sell” credentials over the Net.

Selling of Credentials

Using the newest software, with printers capable of intricate reproduction, people craft phony diplomas that are almost impossible to differentiate from the real thing. Operators of diploma mills are inventive and know how to market bogus products. They appeal to greed and the desire to obtain something without working for it, and they attempt to nullify the purchaser's conscience.

Only a few blatantly acknowledge that they sell credentials, but the market is large enough to keep even these types in business. Many sellers move headquarters and change names on a regular basis to avoid prosecution. Others make justifications guaranteed to appeal to those with little time or inclination for investigating their product and accreditation. These fake schools also appeal to those who rationalize that because they know so much about the field, it's not really fraudulent to buy a degree.

Those who are willing to buy their credentials are satisfied with being required to pass a simple test or take a short class — or perhaps buy a pamphlet or a book advertised to cover material for their degree or certificate. Not only is this throwing away money, it can lead to sacrificing reputation and dignity — maybe even freedom.

There exists an even more insidious seller of credentials: the one advertising his diplomas as novelty items. On almost any day, these diplomas can be purchased on eBay. For example, eBay listings advertise diplomas that can be created to “look exactly like the real thing” and configured with any name and any degree the buyer chooses. Some sellers even include a transcript with each purchase. Despite the sellers' protests that the product is a novelty item, this type of imitation is intended to deceive.

The Importance of Accreditation

In education, there are only three words that matter: accreditation, accreditation, accreditation. Many diploma mills list accreditation from superior-sounding bodies, but these bodies are either nonexistent, created by the mills themselves, or have no power to provide the accreditation that is claimed. This isn't meant to insinuate that all legitimate private investigation programs are associated only with universities, nor that they're accredited only by the same bodies that accredit colleges and universities. This warning is directed at those wishing to acquire degrees in criminal justice-related areas.

In the wake of the September 11 terrorist attacks, schools around the nation have experienced increased enrollment in criminal justice and associated degree programs. Forensic science degrees are especially in demand. Increased demand has led to many legitimate schools rushing to acquire criminal justice or forensic degree programs in order to get their share of this market. Critics claim that some of these hastily constructed programs don't prepare students adequately for the workforce.

A related problem is that no nationally recognized standards for forensic science programs exist. Forensic science is not the only program faced with this problem, but it's a good example. Even well-meaning schools can produce a curriculum that falls short of preparing students for competing in the real world. In short, schools may be accredited, but not on the level that will allow their students to transfer credits to other schools or universities, receive federal financial aid, and qualify for prime positions in the workplace.

A further, more prevalent problem is that the university may be accredited at an acceptable level, but one or more programs within that university may not be. Therefore, it's important to be vigilant in checking out any program. In the case of forensic science, the nonprofit American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) has created standards for accreditation. A number of schools across the nation have voluntarily applied for and received this accreditation.

Diploma mills are no longer hidden, backdoor operations. Because of the Internet, they sit out in the open, hawking their illicit wares with incredible boldness. Yet more often than not, they appear legitimate. While recognizing them is more difficult than ever, you should be suspicious of any organization that will allow you to purchase a diploma or certificate or earn a degree quickly with little or no coursework.

During a two-year investigation of diploma mills, Senator Susan Collins received bogus degrees in medical technology and biology. One of the first to officially document the ease of gaining false credentials, Senator Collins is responsible for encouraging the Department of Education to develop a Web site informing students of the accreditation level held by colleges and universities. This site can be accessed at www.ope.ed.gov/accreditation. Developers warn that a school that does not appear on the list is not necessarily a diploma mill. However, you should exercise serious caution and perform further research on any school that's not listed.

While it's true that a degree is helpful, it's not necessary for private investigation. Education helps any profession, but many successful investigators have no degree. The decision to obtain one should be made on an individual basis, dependent on long-term goals and plans.