False Academic Degrees

As of June 7, 2006, it is a punishable crime to issue or use a false academic degree in the state of Washington. Specifically, anyone granting or offering to grant a false academic degree may be subject to a Class C felony, carrying a fine of up to $10,000 and up to five years in prison.

Anyone knowingly using a false academic degree may be subject to a gross misdemeanor, punishable by up to $5,000 and up to one year in prison. The new law defines a false academic credential as one issued by an entity that:

1. Has not been granted accreditation by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education; or

2. Has not been granted authorization, exemption or waiver by the Higher Education Coordinating Board.

The law also establishes a gross misdemeanor penalty for those who falsely claim academic degrees from legitimate institutions.

For more information contact:

Degree Authorization Staff
Washington Higher Education Coordinating Board
917 Lakeridge Way
P.O. Box 43430
Olympia, WA 98504-3430
Phone: 360.753-7869