University of the People

Zorodzai

Just heard of a free, accredited online university. To my understanding looks like they are sponsored by a number of corporates and the UN hence the ability to offer free tuition and almost free degrees ($50 application fee, $100 per module exam fee).

University of the People accredited

Anyone think their qualifications would be of any value in the real world ?

stryder144

Interesting.

Bokeh

From their most recent catalog:

Notes about the University
1. At present, University of the People is not an accredited institution. Accordingly, at this time, students should be aware that a degree from UoPeople is not recognized for some employment positions, including, but not limited to, positions with the State of California. In addition, graduates may not be eligible to sit for any applicable licensure exams in California and other states, if relevant.
2. University of the People is a private institution approved to operate by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education.

Zorodzai

@Bokeh - not being accredited puts a damper BUT from a "third world" perspective just having a degree is a step in the right direction. I don't really expect these degrees to hold as much weight as the more established institutions; what I find interesting is the availability of a free option to attain a degree. In some countries a degree is basically just a dream unless one has access to big bucks.

stryder144

On their website they say that they have DETC accreditation, which is national, if I remember correctly. Of course, in the US, national accreditation is less valuable.

Bokeh

It looked interesting to me, but not available (they don't accept registrations from some states)

TomkoTech

If nothing else it might be a good use of $50 just to go through their classes.

jonwinterburn

I'm thinking of giving this a go. Any thoughts or reviews on the Comp Sci course they offer? I have IT certs and 15 years experience, but no degree. I can't afford an online degree - not even from the Uni of Phoenix

Cyberscum

I personally would never put a degree from "University of the people" on a resume. If I am going to FORCE myself to go to school it would be from a name most people will recognize.

....But if thats your only choice geter done!

Polynomial

jonwinterburn wrote: »

I'm thinking of giving this a go. Any thoughts or reviews on the Comp Sci course they offer? I have IT certs and 15 years experience, but no degree. I can't afford an online degree - not even from the Uni of Phoenix

You should double check your facts. University of Phoenix might be the most expensive option out there.

tpatt100

I think this is a good thing and with the abysmal completion rates of free online classes it is a good way to find the ambitious types of people who might not be able to go to college through other traditional methods.