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'''Almeda University''' (also known as '''Almeda College''', '''Almeda College & University''', or '''Almeda International University'''<ref name=oda>, Oregon State Office of Degree Authorization, accessed and September 16, 2011</ref><ref name=tx-fraudnotx/><ref>, Almeda College website, accessed September 16, 2011</ref><ref>, accessed September 17, 2011</ref>) was an ]<ref name=oda/><ref name=maine>, ] state government</ref> American institution that offered various ] through ], including a "Life Experience Degree". In July 2015, before Almeda's homepage became unresponsive, it stated that Almeda was not enrolling new students, and it now appears as if Almeda is no longer in operation. Now defunct, '''Almeda University''' (also known as '''Almeda College''', '''Almeda College & University''', or '''Almeda International University'''<ref name=oda>, Oregon State Office of Degree Authorization, accessed and September 16, 2011</ref><ref name=tx-fraudnotx/><ref>, Almeda College website, accessed September 16, 2011</ref><ref>, accessed September 17, 2011</ref>) was a ]<ref name=oda/><ref name=maine>, ] state government</ref> American institution that offered various ] including online certificate programs, general “Life Experience Degrees”, and doctorates in religion and theology.  Almeda’s only accreditation was by the Council for Distance Education Accreditation, the Interfaith Education Ministries (IEM) and the Association for Online Academic Excellence (AOAEX); none of which were recognized by the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation''.'' Almeda ceased operations in July of 2015.


==History== ==History==
Almeda University was founded in 1997 as a distance learning program and as of 2012 had a mailing address in ].<ref name="BBB"/> In 2001, the school established an online presence. It offered undergraduate degrees as well as masters and doctorate degree programs. In addition to its degree programs, Almeda University also offered a wide selection of non-credit courses intended for professional development.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indyposted.com/188224/almeda-university-agrees-degree-holders-more-likely-to-find-work/#A1g8s32oTA3gJOGk.99 |title=Almeda University Agrees: Degree Holders More Likely to Find Work |publisher=Indyposted |date=2012-06-08 |accessdate=2012-08-03}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.netcheck.com/almedauniversity.shtml|publisher = Netcheck|title = Almeda University}}</ref> ''Bears' Guide'' says that it could not locate the physical address of the institution and was informed by reception that Almeda University is a "web only" institution.<ref name=bear187>, John Bear, Maria Bear, (2003-01-01), pp.187 Ten Speed Press, 215. ISBN 1-58008-431-1</ref> As of 2005, the ] reported that Almeda had been closed by legal action in Florida but might still be operating there, had been based in ] for a brief time, and also was using an Idaho address.<ref>, Oregon Office of Degree Authorization, archived by archive.org on December 29, 2005</ref> Richard Smith is Almeda’s current CEO.<ref name="BBB">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbb.org/boise/business-reviews/correspondence-schools/almeda-university-in-boise-id-34000083/ |title=BBB Business Review |author= |year=2004 |publisher=Better Business Bueau |accessdate=24 November 2012}}</ref> Almeda University was founded in 1997 as a distance learning program. In 2001, the school offered undergraduate degrees as well as masters and doctorate degree programs. In addition to its degree programs, Almeda University also offered a wide selection of zero-credit courses intended for professional development.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indyposted.com/188224/almeda-university-agrees-degree-holders-more-likely-to-find-work/#A1g8s32oTA3gJOGk.99 |title=Almeda University Agrees: Degree Holders More Likely to Find Work |publisher=Indyposted |date=2012-06-08 |accessdate=2012-08-03}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.netcheck.com/almedauniversity.shtml|publisher = Netcheck|title = Almeda University}}</ref>
As of 2012, Almeda had only a mailing address in ].<ref name="BBB" /> Upon inspection, ''Bears' Guide'' says that it could not locate the physical address of the institution and was informed by reception that Almeda University was a "web only" institution.<ref name="bear187">, John Bear, Maria Bear, (2003-01-01), pp.187 Ten Speed Press, 215. ISBN 1-58008-431-1</ref> Richard Smith was Almeda’s founding CEO.<ref name="BBB">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbb.org/boise/business-reviews/correspondence-schools/almeda-university-in-boise-id-34000083/ |title=BBB Business Review |author= |year=2004 |publisher=Better Business Bueau |accessdate=24 November 2012}}</ref>


==Programs and courses== ==Programs and courses==
Almeda University offered associate, bachelor's and master's degrees using "Prior Learning Assessment" and also master and doctorate programs in business and theology that require the completion of a thesis or dissertation, according to its website.<ref name="Almeda University">{{cite web|url = http://www.almedauniversity.org/ | title = Almeda University |publisher = Almeda University| accessdate = 2007-10-15| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20071014014311/http://www.almedauniversity.org/?| archivedate= 14 October 2007 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref> Almeda University also offers some 1,000 nondegree technical and business courses and certification preparation programs by e-learning.<ref name="Almeda University">{{cite web|url = http://www.almedauniversity.org/prospective-students.html | title = Prospective Students |publisher = Almeda University| accessdate = 2011-09-16}}</ref> Almeda University offered associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees using "Prior Learning Assessment" and also master's and doctorate programs in business and theology that required the completion of a thesis or dissertation.<ref name="Almeda University">{{cite web|url = http://www.almedauniversity.org/ | title = Almeda University |publisher = Almeda University| accessdate = 2007-10-15| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20071014014311/http://www.almedauniversity.org/?| archivedate= 14 October 2007 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref> Almeda University also offered several hundred non-degree technical and business courses and certification preparation programs by e-learning.<ref name="Almeda University">{{cite web|url = http://www.almedauniversity.org/prospective-students.html | title = Prospective Students |publisher = Almeda University| accessdate = 2011-09-16}}</ref>


==Accreditation status== ==Accreditation Status==
⚫ Legally, Almeda University was a corporation registered on the Caribbean island of ].<ref name="almeda-pp"/> Almeda was listed as an accredited member of Interfaith Education Ministries<ref name="IEM">{{cite web |url=http://interfaitheduministries.org/members.html |title=Accredited Member Schools and Universities |author= |year=2001 |publisher=World Association for Online Education |accessdate=24 November 2012}}</ref> and the Association for Online Academic Excellence,<ref name="AOAEX">{{cite web |url=http://aoaex.org/ful_acc_mem.html |title=Fully Accredited Members |author= |year=2001 |publisher=The Association for Online Academic Excellence |accessdate=24 November 2012}}</ref> and claimed accreditation by the Council for Distance Education Accreditation,<ref name="Almeda-accred">{{cite news | url=http://www.almedacollege.org/certification-accreditation.html | title= Almeda University-Certifications and accreditations | publisher=Almeda University | year=2006 | first= | last= | accessdate = 2006-08-18| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20060813154908/http://www.almedacollege.org/certification-accreditation.html| archivedate= 13 August 2006 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref> however, none of these were recognized by the ] or the ].<ref name="chea">{{cite news | url=http://www.chea.org | title=Accreditation Database and Information | publisher=Council for Higher Education Accreditation | date= | first= | last= | accessdate = 2006-08-18| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20060820045039/http://www.chea.org/| archivedate= 20 August 2006 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref> On its website, Almeda stated that its sources of accreditation were not recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, with the result that students could not receive U.S. federal loans or assistance under the ], and that Almeda degrees might not be recognized by academia or employers in some states.<ref name="Almeda-accred" />
Legally, Almeda University is a corporation registered on the Caribbean island of ].<ref name="almeda-pp"/>
⚫ Almeda is listed as an accredited member of Interfaith Education Ministries<ref name="IEM">{{cite web |url=http://interfaitheduministries.org/members.html |title=Accredited Member Schools and Universities |author= |year=2001 |publisher=World Association for Online Education |accessdate=24 November 2012}}</ref> and the Association for Online Academic Excellence,<ref name="AOAEX">{{cite web |url=http://aoaex.org/ful_acc_mem.html |title=Fully Accredited Members |author= |year=2001 |publisher=The Association for Online Academic Excellence |accessdate=24 November 2012}}</ref> and claims accreditation by the Council for Distance Education Accreditation.<ref name="Almeda-accred">{{cite news | url=http://www.almedacollege.org/certification-accreditation.html | title= Almeda University-Certifications and accreditations | publisher=Almeda University | year=2006 | first= | last= | accessdate = 2006-08-18| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20060813154908/http://www.almedacollege.org/certification-accreditation.html| archivedate= 13 August 2006 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref> None of these are recognized by the ] or the ].<ref name="chea">{{cite news | url=http://www.chea.org | title=Accreditation Database and Information | publisher=Council for Higher Education Accreditation | date= | first= | last= | accessdate = 2006-08-18| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20060820045039/http://www.chea.org/| archivedate= 20 August 2006 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref> On its website, Almeda stated that its claimed sources of accreditation are not recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, with the result that students cannot receive U.S. federal loans or assistance under the ] and Almeda degrees may not be recognized by academia or employers.<ref name="Almeda-accred" />


*'''Connecticut:''' In October 2001, the Connecticut Department of Higher Education ordered Almeda to cease offering degrees in ]. In 2002, when an investigation showed that Almeda continued to advertise its programs in Connecticut, the Department of Higher Education sent a second cease and desist letter to Almeda and referred the issue to the ] for possible legal action.<ref name=CT_DHE>{{cite web| url = http://www.ctdhe.org/info/pdfs/ReportUnlicensedSchools.pdf *'''Connecticut:''' In October 2001, the Connecticut Department of Higher Education ordered Almeda to cease offering degrees in ]. In 2002, when an investigation showed that Almeda continued to advertise its programs in Connecticut, the Department of Higher Education sent a second cease and desist letter to Almeda and referred the issue to the ] for possible legal action.<ref name=CT_DHE>{{cite web| url = http://www.ctdhe.org/info/pdfs/ReportUnlicensedSchools.pdf
| format=PDF | format=PDF
| title = Actions against unlicensed colleges and private occupational schools in Connecticut Fall 2001-Spring 2003 | title = Actions against unlicensed colleges and private occupational schools in Connecticut Fall 2001-Spring 2003
| publisher = Connecticut Department of Higher Education | publisher = Connecticut Department of Higher Education
| accessdate = 2007-01-17}}</ref> | accessdate = 2007-01-17}}</ref>
*'''Florida:''' In 2003, the ] entered into an agreement with Almeda requiring the institution to cease operating in the state. Although Floridians can still get a degree from the online university, Almeda warns Floridians that its degrees may be invalid for public employment in Florida.<ref name="NBC2">{{cite news *'''Florida:''' In 2003, the ] entered into an agreement with Almeda requiring the institution to cease operating in the state. While Floridians could still get a degree from the online university, Almeda warned customers that its degrees might be invalid for public employment in Florida.<ref name="NBC2">{{cite news
| url = http://www.nbc-2.com/Articles/readarticle.asp?articleid=7965&z=3&p= | url = http://www.nbc-2.com/Articles/readarticle.asp?articleid=7965&z=3&p=
| title = University not recognized by state of Florida | title = University not recognized by state of Florida
Line 82: Line 83:
| accessdate = 2006-08-18 | accessdate = 2006-08-18
|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20071026165001/http://www.nbc-2.com/Articles/readarticle.asp?articleid=7965&z=3&p= |archivedate=2007-10-26}}</ref> |archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20071026165001/http://www.nbc-2.com/Articles/readarticle.asp?articleid=7965&z=3&p= |archivedate=2007-10-26}}</ref>
*'''Texas:''' Almeda is on the ] list of "Institutions Whose Degrees are Illegal to Use in Texas."<ref name=tx-fraudnotx>{{cite web| url = http://www.thecb.state.tx.us/AAR/PrivateInstitutions/NoTX.cfm *'''Texas:''' Almeda was listed on the ] list of "Institutions Whose Degrees are not recognized in Texas."<ref name=tx-fraudnotx>{{cite web| url = http://www.thecb.state.tx.us/AAR/PrivateInstitutions/NoTX.cfm
| title = Institutions Whose Degrees are Illegal to Use in Texas | title = Institutions Whose Degrees are Illegal to Use in Texas
| publisher = Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board | publisher = Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
| accessdate = 2008-05-09 and 2011-09-16| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20080510233955/http://www.thecb.state.tx.us/AAR/PrivateInstitutions/NoTX.cfm| archivedate= 10 May 2008 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref> | accessdate = 2008-05-09 and 2011-09-16| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20080510233955/http://www.thecb.state.tx.us/AAR/PrivateInstitutions/NoTX.cfm| archivedate= 10 May 2008 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref>
*'''Other states:''' Almeda also warns that its degrees may be invalid for public employment in Illinois, Oregon, New Jersey, North Dakota, Washington and Idaho.<ref name="almeda-pp">{{cite web *'''Other States:''' Almeda's web site indicated that its degrees also might not be valid for public employment in Illinois, Oregon, New Jersey, North Dakota, Washington and Idaho.<ref name="almeda-pp">{{cite web
| url = https://almedauniversity.org/application/policy-procedure.html | url = https://almedauniversity.org/application/policy-procedure.html
| title = Almeda Policies and Procedures | title = Almeda Policies and Procedures
⚫ | accessdate = 2006-10-04}}</ref> The ] additionally advised that residents of these states should potentially "consider the Almeda degree as a novelty item only".<ref name="BBB"/> In January 2013, the city of ], Michigan, sued<ref>{{cite web|title=Foley & Mansfield Wins Summary Judgment for City of Fraser|url=http://www.fmbusinessattorneys.com/foley-mansfield-wins-summary-judgment-for-city-of-fraser|website=Foley & Mansfield (law firm)|accessdate=16 February 2016}}</ref> Almeda and 99 other "John Doe" defendants alleging violations of the Michigan Authentic Credentials in Education Act. In January 2016, the Michigan Court of Appeals upheld one of these claims (barring the others due to the statute of limitations).<ref>{{cite web|title=MI Court of Appeals Rules on False Academic Credentials|url=http://www.luskalbertson.com/general-education-law/mi-court-of-appeals-rules-on-false-academic-credentials/|website=Lusk & Albertson blog|accessdate=16 February 2016|ref=luskalbertson-1|language=EN}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Riordan|first1=J.|title=City of Fraser v. Almeda University (majority opinion)|url=http://publicdocs.courts.mi.gov:81/OPINIONS/FINAL/COA/20160114_C323499_37_323499.OPN.PDF|website=Michigan Courts|publisher=Michigan Court of Appeals|accessdate=16 February 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Murray|first1=P.J.|title=City of Fraser v. Almeda University (dissenting opinion)|url=http://publicdocs.courts.mi.gov:81/OPINIONS/FINAL/COA/20160114_C323499_38_323499P.OPN.PDF|website=Michigan Courts|publisher=Michigan Court of Appeals|accessdate=16 February 2016}}</ref>
| accessdate = 2006-10-04}}</ref> The ] advises that residents of Oregon, New Jersey, North Dakota, Washington and Idaho "should consider the Almeda degree as a novelty item only".<ref name="BBB"/>

⚫ In January 2013, the city of ], Michigan, sued<ref>{{cite web|title=Foley & Mansfield Wins Summary Judgment for City of Fraser|url=http://www.fmbusinessattorneys.com/foley-mansfield-wins-summary-judgment-for-city-of-fraser|website=Foley & Mansfield (law firm)|accessdate=16 February 2016}}</ref> Almeda and 99 other "John Doe" defendants alleging violations of the Michigan Authentic Credentials in Education Act. In January 2016, the Michigan Court of Appeals upheld one of those claims (barring others because the statute of limitations had passed).<ref>{{cite web|title=MI Court of Appeals Rules on False Academic Credentials|url=http://www.luskalbertson.com/general-education-law/mi-court-of-appeals-rules-on-false-academic-credentials/|website=Lusk & Albertson blog|accessdate=16 February 2016|ref=luskalbertson-1|language=EN}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Riordan|first1=J.|title=City of Fraser v. Almeda University (majority opinion)|url=http://publicdocs.courts.mi.gov:81/OPINIONS/FINAL/COA/20160114_C323499_37_323499.OPN.PDF|website=Michigan Courts|publisher=Michigan Court of Appeals|accessdate=16 February 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Murray|first1=P.J.|title=City of Fraser v. Almeda University (dissenting opinion)|url=http://publicdocs.courts.mi.gov:81/OPINIONS/FINAL/COA/20160114_C323499_38_323499P.OPN.PDF|website=Michigan Courts|publisher=Michigan Court of Appeals|accessdate=16 February 2016}}</ref>


==Reception== ==Reception==
Almeda's academic standards have been criticized by a variety of education organizations. According to ''Bears' Guide to Earning Degrees by Distance Learning'', Almeda College and University is a web-only university that offers degrees based on an assessment of a candidate's "life experience". Bear notes that Almeda states that it is accredited by the Association for Online Academic Excellence, but that that association is unrecognized.<ref name=bear187/><ref name="chea" /> Almeda's academic standards have been criticized by a variety of education organizations. According to ''Bears' Guide to Earning Degrees by Distance Learning'', Almeda College and University was a web-only university offering degrees based on an assessment of a candidate's "life experience". Bear noted that Almeda stated it was accredited by the Association for Online Academic Excellence, but that association itself was also unrecognized.<ref name=bear187/><ref name="chea" />


In 2011, the U.S. News University Directory, operated by '']'', published an article about online education that favorably mentioned Almeda's master's degree program in psychology. '']'' reported in June 2011 that the U.S. News website had removed the posting after being alerted that Almeda "is not recognized as a legitimate degree-granting university by the U.S. Department of Education or any mainstream accrediting agency." Website editors stated their commitment to "focus on accredited colleges and universities" and blamed an "editorial oversight" for the site's use of an Almeda press release.<ref>Steve Kolowich, , ''Inside Higher Ed'', June 30, 2011</ref> In 2011 the U.S. News University Directory, operated by '']'', published an article about online education that favorably mentioned Almeda's master's degree program in psychology. '']'' reported in June 2011 that the U.S. News website had removed the posting after being alerted that Almeda "was not recognized as an accredited degree-granting university by the U.S. Department of Education or any other mainstream accrediting agency." Website editors stated their commitment to "focus on accredited colleges and universities" and blamed an "editorial oversight" for the site's use of an Almeda press release.<ref>Steve Kolowich, , ''Inside Higher Ed'', June 30, 2011</ref>


==Incidents== ==Incidents==


In 2006 a ], police officer had to return a salary increase based on an Almeda degree.<ref name="NBC2" /> Two Naples police officers were also temporarily terminated when an investigation showed that they received diplomas from Almeda.<ref name="NBC2-fired">{{cite news In 2006 a ], police officer was forced to return a salary increase based on an Almeda degree.<ref name="NBC2" />. In addition, two other Naples police officers were temporarily terminated when an investigation showed that they received diplomas from Almeda.<ref name="NBC2-fired">{{cite news
| url = http://www.nbc-2.com/articles/readarticle.asp?articleid=7960&z=3&p= | url = http://www.nbc-2.com/articles/readarticle.asp?articleid=7960&z=3&p=
| title = Police officers fired over fake degrees | title = Police officers fired over fake degrees
Line 106: Line 105:
| publisher = NBC2 | publisher = NBC2
| date = 2006-07-17| accessdate = 2006-10-04 | date = 2006-07-17| accessdate = 2006-10-04
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070330070241/http://www.nbc-2.com/articles/readarticle.asp?articleid=7960&z=3&p= <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archivedate = 2007-03-30}}</ref> Both officers appealed, stating to investigators that they spoke to department administrators before submitting the degrees to verify that they qualified for the incentive program.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2006/oct/12/hearing_today_fired_naples_police_officers/?latest|title=City manager hears arguments in ex-officers' firings|date=2006-10-12|accessdate=2009-03-26|author=Staff|work=]}}</ref> In October 2006, both officers were reinstated with back pay but received 10-day suspensions and had to take an ethics course.<ref>{{cite news |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070330070241/http://www.nbc-2.com/articles/readarticle.asp?articleid=7960&z=3&p= <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archivedate = 2007-03-30}}</ref> Both officers appealed the ruling, stating they had spoken to department administrators before submitting the credentials needed to verify that they qualified for the incentive program.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2006/oct/12/hearing_today_fired_naples_police_officers/?latest|title=City manager hears arguments in ex-officers' firings|date=2006-10-12|accessdate=2009-03-26|author=Staff|work=]}}</ref> In October 2006, both officers were reinstated with back pay, but both received 10-day suspensions and were required to take an ethics course.<ref>{{cite news
| url = http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2006/oct/28/two_naples_officers_get_jobs_back/?local_news | url = http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2006/oct/28/two_naples_officers_get_jobs_back/?local_news
| title = Officers fired for online degrees rehired | title = Officers fired for online degrees rehired
Line 112: Line 111:
| publisher = Naples Daily News | publisher = Naples Daily News
| date = 2006-10-28 | date = 2006-10-28
}}</ref>
⚫ }}</ref> Similarly, in 2009, eight Washington state troopers who obtained degrees from Almeda had to relinquish educational incentive pay but avoided prosecution for ] because prosecutors could not find ].<ref>Sharon Pian Chan, , '']''. Republished by ''Yakima Herald'', February 3, 2009</ref><ref>Scott Gutierrez, , '']'', February 2, 2009</ref> Also in 2009, the '']'' reported that Sacramento city firefighters had raises revoked after purchasing degrees from diploma mills, including Almeda.<ref>Robert Lewis, , ], July 9, 2009. .</ref>


⚫ Similarly, in 2009, eight Washington state troopers who obtained degrees from Almeda had to relinquish educational incentive pay but avoided recrimination as prosecutors could not establish ].<ref>Sharon Pian Chan, , '']''. Republished by ''Yakima Herald'', February 3, 2009</ref><ref>Scott Gutierrez, , '']'', February 2, 2009</ref> Also in 2009, the '']'' reported that one or more Sacramento city firefighters had had their raises revoked after obtaining degrees from Almeda.<ref>Robert Lewis, , ], July 9, 2009. .</ref>
⚫ In 2004 the ] affiliate in ], reported that someone filled out an Almeda application for an ] on behalf of his dog. Almeda granted the dog a "life experience" ] in childhood development.<ref name="CBS6">{{cite news | url=http://www2.wrgb.com/iteam/investigation/investigation.asp?selection=article_23366 | title=Degrees for Sale | publisher=CBS6 | date=2004-02-19 | first= | last= | accessdate = 2006-08-18| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20060824192605/http://www2.wrgb.com/iteam/investigation/investigation.asp?selection=article_23366| archivedate= 24 August 2006 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref> Almeda later claimed in public response<ref name="Perjury to prove a point?">{{cite web | url=http://almedauniversity.org/press-release.html | title=Perjury to prove a point | publisher=Almeda University | accessdate = 2006-10-20| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20061108181011/http://almedauniversity.org/press-release.html| archivedate= 8 November 2006 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref> that the person ] himself by creating a false identity.

⚫ In 2004 a ] affiliate in ], reported that one of their reporters filed an Almeda application for an ] on behalf of his dog, citing child care responsibilities and other requisite experience. Almeda initially granted the dog a "life experience" ] in childhood development<ref name="CBS6">{{cite news | url=http://www2.wrgb.com/iteam/investigation/investigation.asp?selection=article_23366 | title=Degrees for Sale | publisher=CBS6 | date=2004-02-19 | first= | last= | accessdate = 2006-08-18| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20060824192605/http://www2.wrgb.com/iteam/investigation/investigation.asp?selection=article_23366| archivedate= 24 August 2006 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref> based on the false and erroneous claims. Almeda later proclaimed in public response<ref name="Perjury to prove a point?">{{cite web | url=http://almedauniversity.org/press-release.html | title=Perjury to prove a point | publisher=Almeda University | accessdate = 2006-10-20| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20061108181011/http://almedauniversity.org/press-release.html| archivedate= 8 November 2006 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref> that the reporter ] himself by creating a false identity.


==See also== ==See also==
⚫ * ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
⚫ * ]


==References== ==References==

Revision as of 22:29, 17 February 2016

Almeda University
Almeda logo
Established1997
Websitealmedauniversity.org

Now defunct, Almeda University (also known as Almeda College, Almeda College & University, or Almeda International University) was a non-accredited American institution that offered various academic degrees including online certificate programs, general “Life Experience Degrees”, and doctorates in religion and theology.  Almeda’s only accreditation was by the Council for Distance Education Accreditation, the Interfaith Education Ministries (IEM) and the Association for Online Academic Excellence (AOAEX); none of which were recognized by the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Almeda ceased operations in July of 2015.

History

Almeda University was founded in 1997 as a distance learning program. In 2001, the school offered undergraduate degrees as well as masters and doctorate degree programs. In addition to its degree programs, Almeda University also offered a wide selection of zero-credit courses intended for professional development.

As of 2012, Almeda had only a mailing address in Boise, Idaho. Upon inspection, Bears' Guide says that it could not locate the physical address of the institution and was informed by reception that Almeda University was a "web only" institution. Richard Smith was Almeda’s founding CEO.

Programs and courses

Almeda University offered associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees using "Prior Learning Assessment" and also master's and doctorate programs in business and theology that required the completion of a thesis or dissertation. Almeda University also offered several hundred non-degree technical and business courses and certification preparation programs by e-learning.

Accreditation Status

Legally, Almeda University was a corporation registered on the Caribbean island of Nevis. Almeda was listed as an accredited member of Interfaith Education Ministries and the Association for Online Academic Excellence, and claimed accreditation by the Council for Distance Education Accreditation, however, none of these were recognized by the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. On its website, Almeda stated that its sources of accreditation were not recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, with the result that students could not receive U.S. federal loans or assistance under the GI Bill, and that Almeda degrees might not be recognized by academia or employers in some states.

  • Connecticut: In October 2001, the Connecticut Department of Higher Education ordered Almeda to cease offering degrees in Connecticut. In 2002, when an investigation showed that Almeda continued to advertise its programs in Connecticut, the Department of Higher Education sent a second cease and desist letter to Almeda and referred the issue to the Connecticut Attorney General for possible legal action.
  • Florida: In 2003, the Florida Department of Education entered into an agreement with Almeda requiring the institution to cease operating in the state. While Floridians could still get a degree from the online university, Almeda warned customers that its degrees might be invalid for public employment in Florida.
  • Texas: Almeda was listed on the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board list of "Institutions Whose Degrees are not recognized in Texas."
  • Other States: Almeda's web site indicated that its degrees also might not be valid for public employment in Illinois, Oregon, New Jersey, North Dakota, Washington and Idaho. The Better Business Bureau additionally advised that residents of these states should potentially "consider the Almeda degree as a novelty item only". In January 2013, the city of Fraser, Michigan, sued Almeda and 99 other "John Doe" defendants alleging violations of the Michigan Authentic Credentials in Education Act. In January 2016, the Michigan Court of Appeals upheld one of these claims (barring the others due to the statute of limitations).

Reception

Almeda's academic standards have been criticized by a variety of education organizations. According to Bears' Guide to Earning Degrees by Distance Learning, Almeda College and University was a web-only university offering degrees based on an assessment of a candidate's "life experience". Bear noted that Almeda stated it was accredited by the Association for Online Academic Excellence, but that association itself was also unrecognized.

In 2011 the U.S. News University Directory, operated by U.S. News & World Report, published an article about online education that favorably mentioned Almeda's master's degree program in psychology. Inside Higher Ed reported in June 2011 that the U.S. News website had removed the posting after being alerted that Almeda "was not recognized as an accredited degree-granting university by the U.S. Department of Education or any other mainstream accrediting agency." Website editors stated their commitment to "focus on accredited colleges and universities" and blamed an "editorial oversight" for the site's use of an Almeda press release.

Incidents

In 2006 a Naples, Florida, police officer was forced to return a salary increase based on an Almeda degree.. In addition, two other Naples police officers were temporarily terminated when an investigation showed that they received diplomas from Almeda. Both officers appealed the ruling, stating they had spoken to department administrators before submitting the credentials needed to verify that they qualified for the incentive program. In October 2006, both officers were reinstated with back pay, but both received 10-day suspensions and were required to take an ethics course.

Similarly, in 2009, eight Washington state troopers who obtained degrees from Almeda had to relinquish educational incentive pay but avoided recrimination as prosecutors could not establish criminal intent. Also in 2009, the Sacramento Bee reported that one or more Sacramento city firefighters had had their raises revoked after obtaining degrees from Almeda.

In 2004 a CBS affiliate in Albany, New York, reported that one of their reporters filed an Almeda application for an associate's degree on behalf of his dog, citing child care responsibilities and other requisite experience. Almeda initially granted the dog a "life experience" associate's degree in childhood development based on the false and erroneous claims. Almeda later proclaimed in public response that the reporter perjured himself by creating a false identity.

See also

References

  1. ^ Unaccredited colleges, Oregon State Office of Degree Authorization, accessed March 20, 2008 and September 16, 2011
  2. ^ "Institutions Whose Degrees are Illegal to Use in Texas". Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Archived from the original on 10 May 2008. Retrieved 2008-05-09 and 2011-09-16. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |accessdate= (help); Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  3. About, Almeda College website, accessed September 16, 2011
  4. State of Michigan List of Non-accredited Colleges and Universities, accessed September 17, 2011
  5. Unaccredited Post-Secondary Educational Institutions, Maine state government
  6. "Almeda University Agrees: Degree Holders More Likely to Find Work". Indyposted. 2012-06-08. Retrieved 2012-08-03.
  7. "Almeda University". Netcheck.
  8. ^ "BBB Business Review". Better Business Bueau. 2004. Retrieved 24 November 2012.
  9. ^ Bears' Guide to Earning Degrees by Distance Learning, John Bear, Maria Bear, (2003-01-01), pp.187 Ten Speed Press, 215. ISBN 1-58008-431-1
  10. ^ "Almeda University". Almeda University. Archived from the original on 14 October 2007. Retrieved 2007-10-15. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help) Cite error: The named reference "Almeda University" was defined multiple times with different content (see the help page).
  11. ^ "Almeda Policies and Procedures". Retrieved 2006-10-04.
  12. "Accredited Member Schools and Universities". World Association for Online Education. 2001. Retrieved 24 November 2012.
  13. "Fully Accredited Members". The Association for Online Academic Excellence. 2001. Retrieved 24 November 2012.
  14. ^ "Almeda University-Certifications and accreditations". Almeda University. 2006. Archived from the original on 13 August 2006. Retrieved 2006-08-18. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  15. ^ "Accreditation Database and Information". Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Archived from the original on 20 August 2006. Retrieved 2006-08-18. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  16. "Actions against unlicensed colleges and private occupational schools in Connecticut Fall 2001-Spring 2003" (PDF). Connecticut Department of Higher Education. Retrieved 2007-01-17.
  17. ^ Simmons, Kathryn (2006-07-17). "University not recognized by state of Florida". NBC2. Archived from the original on 2007-10-26. Retrieved 2006-08-18.
  18. "Foley & Mansfield Wins Summary Judgment for City of Fraser". Foley & Mansfield (law firm). Retrieved 16 February 2016.
  19. "MI Court of Appeals Rules on False Academic Credentials". Lusk & Albertson blog. Retrieved 16 February 2016.
  20. Riordan, J. "City of Fraser v. Almeda University (majority opinion)" (PDF). Michigan Courts. Michigan Court of Appeals. Retrieved 16 February 2016.
  21. Murray, P.J. "City of Fraser v. Almeda University (dissenting opinion)" (PDF). Michigan Courts. Michigan Court of Appeals. Retrieved 16 February 2016.
  22. Steve Kolowich, Ranking the Online Colleges, Inside Higher Ed, June 30, 2011
  23. Kara Kenney (2006-07-17). "Police officers fired over fake degrees". NBC2. Archived from the original on 2007-03-30. Retrieved 2006-10-04.
  24. Staff (2006-10-12). "City manager hears arguments in ex-officers' firings". Naples Daily News. Retrieved 2009-03-26.
  25. Ryan Mills (2006-10-28). "Officers fired for online degrees rehired". Naples Daily News.
  26. Sharon Pian Chan, Troopers with bogus degrees won't be charged, Seattle Times. Republished by Yakima Herald, February 3, 2009
  27. Scott Gutierrez, No charges in online diploma inquiry, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, February 2, 2009
  28. Robert Lewis, The Public Eye: 'Diploma mill' degrees for firefighters cost city $50,000, grand jury says, Sacramento Bee, July 9, 2009. Archived by archive.org on October 19, 2009.
  29. "Degrees for Sale". CBS6. 2004-02-19. Archived from the original on 24 August 2006. Retrieved 2006-08-18. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  30. "Perjury to prove a point". Almeda University. Archived from the original on 8 November 2006. Retrieved 2006-10-20. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

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