how can I distinguish a genuine university offering distance learning courses from a diploma mill?

I am looking into postgraduate distance learning options. What credentials can I look for, so that I know I'm not just getting a piece of paper. [I am very suspicious about Belford University. It claims to be accredited by the 'International Accreditation Agency for Online Universities]' Yet they claim you can get a degree in 7 days based on 'life experience?!'

Public Comments

  1. Don't touch that one with a barge-pole. It's not worth the paper. You didn't say where you live, but I assume you are in the UK. If the Open U offers a course you want to do, use it. It is the most reputable and respected. Otherwise, any established university in the UK will do, the more prestigious the better. I wouldn't bother with US 'on-line' qualifications.
  2. Open University is a decent accredited university, I'm sure many employers are aware of it. My sister is doing a course with them at the moment. Why are you looking into doing a distance learning course though? Why not full time with a University... distance learning is not always easy, as my sister has found because it limits you from receiving help and guidance and you don't get to learn with others.
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