Diploma Mills: A Historical Foundation

Abstract

In the context of the digital age, this paper discusses the issue of diploma mills, which are fraudulent institutions that grant unearned academic degrees for a fee. The study traces the history of diploma mills back to John Cook Bennett's early practice of awarding degrees based on untested hypotheses of experience rather than curriculum-based learning. It provides a thorough understanding of the operation and classification of these institutions, emphasizing the importance of financial gain and social prestige as key motivators for their continued existence. The paper goes on to investigate the impact of these fraudulent activities on the credibility of higher education, labor markets, and public safety in various industries. Additionally, it describes the typical traits and critical thinking techniques of diploma mills, emphasizing naming conventions, unconventional curricula, quantity over quality methods, and structural flaws. The presentation of notable diploma mill examples and the industries in which they operate serves to highlight the size and complexity of the issue. The paper highlights the significant drawbacks, such as deception, lack of recognition, and the breeding of mediocrity, while acknowledging the potential benefits of honorary degrees as a positive offshoot of the diploma mill concept. In its final section, the paper makes a plea to decision-makers in government, higher education, and business to work together and raise awareness to preserve the credibility and value of educational credentials.

Keywords: Diploma mills, For-profit, certificate, fake, degree, educational institution

DOI: 10.7176/HRL/54-02

Publication date:September 30^th 2023