THERE are a series of advertisements on social media from institutions of higher learning, especially those offering online programmes. Many provide scholarships ranging from 30% to 50% for prospective students. The fees may seem appealing, but I urge anyone considering an MBA, PhD, or DBA to verify whether the institutions are accredited and recognised by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) in our home country.
I am 100% for online learning as it has opened doors for individuals worldwide to pursue higher degrees such as PhDs and MBAs. However, not all institutions offering these programmes meet recognised academic and accreditation standards. Unaccredited universities, particularly those offering online PhD and MBA programmes, present significant concerns regarding legitimacy, recognition and educational value. Today, I explore the implications of such programmes and their impact on students and the professional landscape.
Understanding Accreditation
Accreditation is a process through which educational institutions and programmes are evaluated to ensure they meet established academic and administrative standards. In many countries, accreditation is granted by bodies recognised by official education authorities. When a university is unaccredited, it means that it has not undergone or has failed this rigorous quality assurance process. While some institutions claim accreditation from non-recognised or self-created organisations, such accreditations hold little to no academic or professional value.
Unaccredited online PhD and MBA programmes
Many unaccredited universities operate online, often called “diploma mills”. These institutions promise quick degrees with little to no coursework or assessment.
Such programmes attract students looking for an easy way to obtain a PhD or MBA, but they carry significant risks:
a) Lack of Recognition – Employers, licensing bodies and professional organisations do not recognise degrees from unaccredited universities.
b) No Access to Financial Aid — Students cannot receive government-backed grants or loans for unaccredited programmes.
c) Limited Career Advancement — Many companies require degrees from accredited institutions for promotions and higher positions.
d) Legal Consequences — Using an unaccredited degree for employment in regulated fields like healthcare and education may constitute fraud and result in court action by the enforcement authorities.
e) Lack of competency-based training — The effectiveness of PhD and MBA programmes from non-accredited universities in equipping students with essential competency skills and meeting postgraduate academic standards remains questionable.
Consequences of Earning a Degree from an Unaccredited University
Pursuing a PhD or MBA from an unaccredited university can lead to several negative outcomes:
a) Wasted Money and Time — Students invest significant financial resources into degrees that ultimately hold little value.
b) Career Limitations — Many employers verify the accreditation status of institutions before hiring or promoting employees.
c) Reputation Damage —Listing an unaccredited degree on a resume can raise ethical concerns and damage professional credibility.
Ineligibility for further education
Many accredited universities do not recognise credits or degrees from non-accredited institutions. This means that individuals with an MBA from a non-accredited university may struggle to gain admission to a reputable PhD programme. Similarly, holders of non-accredited PhDs may not be eligible for postdoctoral research positions or faculty appointments.
According to a report by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) in the USA, most accredited institutions have policies against accepting degrees or transfer credits from non-accredited universities. This can be a major setback for individuals who wish to further their education or seek academic credibility.
How to Identify and Avoid Unaccredited Universities
To avoid falling into the trap of unaccredited online programs, students should:
a) Verify Accreditation — Check accreditation with official agencies such as government education departments or recognised accreditation bodies like the MQA.
b) Research University Reputation — Look for reviews, alumni feedback, and industry recognition.
c) Avoid Fast-Track Degrees – Legitimate PhD and MBA programmes require years of study and research, not just a few months.
d) Check Course Rigour — Accredited programmes have structured curricula, qualified faculty and research components.
Conclusion
Online education has created significant opportunities for higher learning. However, pursuing an MBA or PhD from a non-accredited university presents great risks, including lack of academic rigour, limited job market recognition, legal and ethical concerns, and ineligibility for further education.
Accreditation is a crucial quality assurance mechanism, ensuring that degrees hold value and credibility. Individuals seeking higher education should carefully assess the accreditation status of their chosen institution to safeguard their career and academic aspirations.
Choosing an accredited university not only enhances employment prospects but
also upholds academic integrity and professional credibility.
DISCLAIMER:
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the Sarawak Tribune.
