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Jason: contact local school districts where you may be applying for a teaching position.  Ask if they hire U of Phoenix graduates.  How many they hire.  That may provide a little bit of information.  Also, I agree with OldEd.  Do some comparison shopping with other colleges/universities in the greater Portland area.  You have choices.

posted 2 years, 7 months ago
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I worked in admissions/financial assistance offices for several non-profit (public and private) colleges throughout my higher education career.  My experience with recruiters from the for-profit sector was mixed.  Some were professionals.  Too many were recruiting as many potential students as possible as they (recruiters) received bonuses for each student recruited.  Consequently, some applied heavy pressure to potential student and family members, playing upon the naivite of those folks.  An example of the sales was: 'The programis filling quickly.  You must pay a non-refundable deposit to ensure your spot in this class."  Then, when the potential student found a similar program in a state institution at half the cost, the student could not obtain a refund.

For-profit institutions are filling a need.  However, the general rule of thumb is that classes and degrees do not transfer to public institutions in the manner the student wants.  If you believe you will ever transfer to a public college/university to further your education, you need to contact any of those institutions and inquire if and how for-profit credits/degree transfer.  Your credits may be recognized, but only for elective credits. 

Comparison shopping before enrolling is the best way to protect yourself.  Check with admissions offices and comparable academic programs.  Attend financial assistance workshops that public institutions present. 

The beginning of questions to ask:

1.  Do you accept credits from (fill in the blank) for-profit school?  How do the credits transfer? 

2.  If I have an associate's degree from (fill in the blank institution), how will the credits transfer if I wish to complete a bachelor's degree at your institution?  The same applies for students completing a bachelor's degree and wishing to pursue a graduate degree.

3.  How long does it take graduates to find a job in the particular field after graduation?  Do they find jobs in the field?  What is the employment outlook for this particular field?

4.  What is the average debt of your graduates?

This will hopefully help someone select the right college/university and reduce some heartburn and/or unexpected and negative consequences.

There are experts in the field who do not charge for the answers.  Beware of folks who charge to help you find a college. (another show)

posted 2 years, 7 months ago
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And, thank heavens she is no longer in the classroom or the legislature.  (TOL couldn't find a more qualified person than this?)

posted 2 years, 8 months ago
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