UoPeople WASC Accredited 2/14/2025

[KSoul]

It’s always fascinating to observe the dynamic discussions within this community. The threads often reveal a spectrum of perspectives, from those celebrating the win of gaining another affordable, regionally accredited resource for credits, to others who lean into skepticism—sometimes without direct experience or connection to the institution in question. As someone who has now taught four classes at UoPeople (with two currently in progress), I can confidently say that the experience has been gratifying.

What stands out most is the diversity and determination of the students. While it’s true that some students may rely on AI tools (a trend that is undeniably pervasive across all educational institutions as we approach 2025), what I encounter more frequently are bright, curious individuals who actively engage with the material. They flood my inbox and chat boxes with thoughtful questions, seeking clarity, and expressing genuine appreciation for the feedback provided. This level of engagement is a testament to their commitment to learning and growth.

For many of these students, UoPeople represents more than just an educational institution—it’s a lifeline. The fact that UoPeople is now regionally accredited adds significant value to their choice, making it a viable and respected option for achieving their academic and professional goals. It’s inspiring to think that this institution has the potential to transform lives in profound ways, offering opportunities to those who might otherwise be excluded from higher education.

On a personal level, the experience of teaching at UoPeople has been equally enriching. The flexibility of remote instruction aligns with the evolving nature of work and opens doors for educators to contribute meaningfully from anywhere in the world. Over time, this could become an increasingly valuable avenue for those seeking remote academic work opportunities at other RA universities.

Seeing more discussions highlighting the positive aspects of these new opportunities would be refreshing. As the DegreeForum community continues to grow, celebrating the addition of strong, accessible options like UoPeople can inspire long-time members and newcomers to pursue their goals confidently. A recommendation would be to move away from this narrow bias of Academic Preachers and focus on the wins—for students, educators, and the community—and continue to build a supportive environment that empowers everyone to succeed.