What to do with my unaccredited degree?

[Gabe]

Before I begin let me first admit & explain something: I was a regular poster at DI years ago and, while I tried to keep a balanced perspective, I seemed to lean more toward the "gang" than anyone else. However, time passed and ultimately thanks in part to a select few, I realized there is definitely NOT a once size fits all for education.

Now, with that out of the way here I go:

I undertook distance learning as a military member earning credits at RA and NA schools as well as taking CLEP in addition to the college credit I earned through military training. After getting out of the military and (stupidly) taking a break from school I ultimately decided to finish at Frederick Taylor University because I felt the credit transfer process was fair and the tuition a great bargain.

I knew full well what I was getting into and understood the potential for "limited utility", but I feel the quality of education I have received thus far (I only have two courses left) is sufficient and I have no regrets whatsoever about my decision.

So, I'm motivated to continue my studies and have since been looking at various MBA programs. FTU offers MBA's as well and although it'd be an easy transition a part of me wants something "fresh". I know most accredited schools require an accredited degree (many require RA). I realize there are exceptions such as Troy and a few others that have previously been listed over at DI.

What's one to do?

*I attempted a "negotiation" for lack of a better word with a for-profit NCA school and while they didn't give me an outright "NO" they simply stated "We don't have a guideline for such circumstances*

[Ben Johnson]

Before I begin let me first admit & explain something: I was a regular poster at DI years ago and, while I tried to keep a balanced perspective, I seemed to lean more toward the "gang" than anyone else. However, time passed and ultimately thanks in part to a select few, I realized there is definitely NOT a once size fits all for education.

A common story here.

[Don Dresden]

*I attempted a "negotiation" for lack of a better word with a for-profit NCA school and while they didn't give me an outright "NO" they simply stated "We don't have a guideline for such circumstances*

You are on the right track with that.  Many (if not most) schools have seats to fill and bills to pay.  A vet with a "legit" (i.e., not credit card and resume) degree and a job has a demonstrated track record of service and success. Definitely "negotiate" with admissions.  There are plenty of places out there eager for the business.  As long as they are convinced you aren't going to embarrass them, they will be willing to do a little "whole person" evaluation.

[Ben Johnson]

As there are some schools that will entertain accepting considerable business experience in lieu of a bachelors, don't give up yet. Aspen U., a DTEC school, has been known to accept a few such students. Northcentral U., regionally accredited, has accepted unaccredited California Southern U (newly renamed SCUPS) degrees but they do share a common origin.

You may have to invest in a lot of application fees but I think you have some chance of success. Present a good rosy resume and it should help your chances.

Many schools actually have admission policies relating to unaccredited degrees that usually involve only probationary status for the first few courses.

[Gabe]

I appreciate the tip. I paid the fee to NCU about 3 weeks ago, but I didn't (nor did they) make any mention of my unaccredited degree. I'd heard that NCU and CalSouthern were one in the same which is prompted me to apply there in the first place. Of course, I'm just waiting for someone at DI to put in a phone call to somebody @ NCU and have me thwarted, but I'm going to remain diligent and try not to pay a fortunte in application fees. I'll keep everyone posted and I do greatly appreciate the help.

[ham]

I appreciate the tip. I paid the fee to NCU about 3 weeks ago, but I didn't (nor did they) make any mention of my unaccredited degree. I'd heard that NCU and CalSouthern were one in the same which is prompted me to apply there in the first place. Of course, I'm just waiting for someone at DI to put in a phone call to somebody @ NCU and have me thwarted, but I'm going to remain diligent and try not to pay a fortunte in application fees. I'll keep everyone posted and I do greatly appreciate the help.

how could they know who you are?
if you told them your real name, shame on you.
It is easy to befriend 'online buddies' but i never fell into the trap.
In fact, they turned on from...from 'valiant degree-mill buster' to abomination in how long, 48h?
They may raise the topic of 'credibility' but i have no 'guides' to sell, no dodgy school to pimp and i am not a loser trying to look awesome outside my field of study, online among financial frauds, gay teen porn kings, millists, massage parlor addicts etc.
People shall understand that the clique's strategy is obvious...they may befriend one at first, to gain insight while in his confidence, only to hold that insight against him later to coerce him into submission.

[Gabe]

*UPDATE*

I have received "tentative" acceptance to two (2) RA universities and one (1) Australian university. I'm now at the point where I simply need to decide which one to go to.

[Ben Johnson]

*UPDATE*

I have received "tentative" acceptance to two (2) RA universities and one (1) Australian university. I'm now at the point where I simply need to decide which one to go to.

Congrats. Now do us a favor and do not advertise the names of the schools. There are dangerous stalkers out there who WILL call the school and their accreditor asking them to justify destroyng the very foundations of the education system. We've seen it too many times.


Some people have incessantly lectured on the uselessness of unaccredited degrees and go to great lengths to prove themselves right. Of course in the real world unaccredited degrees may be more of an inconveniance than an absolute liability. I am not talking about programs where you get a degree without coursework but am referring to real state approved schools.


.

[Little Arminius]

Before I begin let me first admit & explain something: I was a regular poster at DI years ago and, while I tried to keep a balanced perspective, I seemed to lean more toward the "gang" than anyone else. However, time passed and ultimately thanks in part to a select few, I realized there is definitely NOT a once size fits all for education.

Now, with that out of the way here I go:

I undertook distance learning as a military member earning credits at RA and NA schools as well as taking CLEP in addition to the college credit I earned through military training. After getting out of the military and (stupidly) taking a break from school I ultimately decided to finish at Frederick Taylor University because I felt the credit transfer process was fair and the tuition a great bargain.

I knew full well what I was getting into and understood the potential for "limited utility", but I feel the quality of education I have received thus far (I only have two courses left) is sufficient and I have no regrets whatsoever about my decision.

So, I'm motivated to continue my studies and have since been looking at various MBA programs. FTU offers MBA's as well and although it'd be an easy transition a part of me wants something "fresh". I know most accredited schools require an accredited degree (many require RA). I realize there are exceptions such as Troy and a few others that have previously been listed over at DI.

What's one to do?

*I attempted a "negotiation" for lack of a better word with a for-profit NCA school and while they didn't give me an outright "NO" they simply stated "We don't have a guideline for such circumstances*

You may actually have a couple of other options. I don't think that you even need an undergrad degree to pursue Heriot-Watt University's distance MBA. John Bear used to be their North American rep (and made a boatload of $$ out of it) and there are a number of posters at the various forums who have studied with them. UNISA also offers a distance business degree [Master of Business Leadership ("MBL")], which, in addition to not being a true MBA also require short yearly residencies.

IMO, a recognized graduate degree will help you overcome any limitations your unaccredited bachelor's degree may pose.