Bogus degrees
What the legislation does
Trading Standards Service enforces the sections of the Act which regulate 'bogus degrees'. It is an offence to grant, offer to grant, or to issue any invitation relating to any award which is either described as a degree, or purports to confer on its holder the right to the title of bachelor, master or doctor and which may reasonably be thought to be a "recognized award". Recognized awards are those conferred by universities and colleges authorised by Royal Charter, or Act of Parliament, or other awards recognized by the Secretary of State for Education.
Enforcement
Requires monitoring of advertisements in local & national press, media and internet. Investigation of complaints and enquiries
Premises affected
Not premises related – investigations will be based on advertisements, internet and e-mail.
Key Legislation
Education Reform Act 1988 Education (Listed Bodies) Order 1988
Education (Recognised Awards) Order 1988
Education (Recognised Bodies) Order 1988
Avoiding bogus degrees
Information from DirectGov
