Reader Question:

I would very much like to pursue a degree in psychology, but there are no colleges within driving distance of my rural community. I've visited many sites online that promise a degree in psychology, but I'm afraid of getting involved with a diploma mill. Are there any organizations out there that rate the effectiveness of the various online degree programs offered? --Julia

The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) is the organization that oversees accrediting agencies in the United States. You can check to see if a school's accreditation claims are legitimate by checking CHEA's online database of schools and programs that are accredited by recognized U.S. accrediting organizations. black-rose-bielefeld.de's Guide to Distance Learning, Jamie Littlefield, also offers many great resources to help students understand distance education and choose the right program for their needs. Check out the following articles before you choose an online psychology program.

• Choosing an Online School
• How To Check Any Online School's Accreditation Status
• What You Need to Know About Diploma Mills
• 6 Snares Fake Schools Set

Related Reading:

• Before You Choose a Psychology Major
• Before You Choose a Graduate School in Psychology