When you come across a school you have never heard of that offers online degree programs, your initial thought might be that this school does not actually exist and is just a ploy to get your money. But a little research proves that Argosy University is a legitimate school that can offer you a genuine degree.

Creation

Unlike Harvard and Oxford, which have both been around for hundreds of years, Argosy University is new to the college scene. According to the "College Review Journal," it was founded in 2001 when the American School of Professional Psychology, the University of Sarasota, and the Medical Institute of Minnesota all merged together to form one school.

Accreditation

Argosy University is currently accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The commission is responsible for evaluating how well a school operates and the validity of the school's programs. The school must meet certain standards to become accredited, and Argosy University meets those standards.

Title IV Funding

Title IV funding refers to loans and grants given by the federal government, including the Pell grant, Stafford loans and federal work-study programs. Argosy University is in good standing with the Department of Education and is allowed to partake in the Title IV program.

Private, For-Profit Institution

Some people are leery of the phrase "private, for-profit institution," but according to an article written by John Sperling on Forbes.com, almost 9 percent of the total student population attends private, for-profit universities. They are legitimate institutions, albeit slightly more expensive schools than their public, non-profit counterparts.

Visiting the School

Argosy University offers a variety of online programs, but the school also has campuses you can visit and tour in Illinois, Utah and Minnesota.

Source:

College Review Journal: Argosy University

Argosy University News: Argosy University Receives 7 Year Accreditation from Higher Learning Commission

U.S. Department of Education: Accreditation

More Information:

Institutional Planning and Evaluation: What is the Higher Learning Commission?

Forbes.com: College And The Free Market