College Selection - For Profit Programs - Choose Wisely

There has been much press recently regarding for-profit colleges, specifically some of the recruiting practices used to enroll prospective students. While the press is concerning and certainly there are problems with some for-profit recruiting, this remains an education option for many students. Those considering a for-profit education simply need to do the in-depth research and develop the right questions to successfully navigate the research process for such programs.

This post will provide an overview of the research needed to make an informed decision about for-profit colleges and their programs. The chances of a successful education experience will increase greatly if critical fact-finding is done at the beginning.

CAREER SELECTION

• What led you to this career field?
• What do you know about the career such as best places to be in the field, ease of entering the field including how long you have to 'pay your dues' in order to grow, required training and experience, employment trends (on the grow, static or on the decline)...
• Tip: Do several job shadows to learn more about the 'real-world' of the job and its role in the industry.

PROGRAM SELECTION

• How did you identify this program? Professional or personal recommendation? Advertising? College or Career Fair? Other?
• When was the college/program founded? What is its academic and professional experience in the field you want to pursue?
• Is the college independently owned or owned by a corporation, in other words who controls your education experience?
• Is the college accredited? By what body? Is it an accreditation that is valued by professionals in the field you are pursuing? Is the program accredited by a professional organization in your proposed field?
• Specifically, how will this program help you meet your career goals?

FACULTY/PROGRAM

• What are the credentials and professional experience of those who will be teaching you?
• What practical experience do you gain during the program such as internship or externship opportunities?
• What is the reputation of the college/program in the community, regionally if offered in a multi-state area? Do employers value a degree or certificate from this college/program? Do employers hire students from this program?
• What other programs are available that offers an education in your career of interest?
• Are course credits transferable to other institutions such as traditional 4-year colleges?
• Tip: Seek feedback from past students in the targeted program as well as prospective employers.

PROGRAM COMPLETION

• What percent of students completed the program? Why did students leave the program prior to completion? How does this program/college completion rate compare with similar programs?
• What do program graduates say about their education, career placement and professional opportunities upon program completion?
• Are there other avenues to gain experience and opportunities in the desired career field?

PROGRAM FUNDING/DEBT LOAD

• What is the average student debt load upon graduation? How does the debt load compare to the average beginning earnings?
• What is the availability of federal financial aid versus private student loans?
• Tip: Student loans are still due even if the program is not completed and they cannot be discharged in bankruptcy.

THE FUTURE

• What is a realistic income projection both as starting wage and as a seasoned professional?
• What are the opportunities for advancement?
• Tip: Do not rely solely upon income and opportunity information provided by Admissions Recruiters. Instead, check such sources as professional associations, the Bureau of Labour Statistics and the like to gain a realistic view of the career.

Asking questions like these will allow you to get the 'full story.' make wise education decisions and minimize costly 'do-over's.'

Devon O'Brien, M.Ed. ~ Destination College & Beyond LLC

www.DCB-creatingfutures.com ~ planning@DCB-creatingfutures.com

Creating Futures through Education ~ Career ~ Life!