A bulldog gets a degree from Belford University diploma mill!
The Arkanas blog reports how a doctor called Dr. Rhoda's doctorate, a Ph.D., comes from Belford University (a Diploma mill), an Internet operation which Dr. Rhoda acknowledged in a phone interview with the Arkanas blog Dr.Rhonda told them 'Belford University has it's critics'. He countered that some people don't think much of the University of Arkansas, either. (He was just making a point, he said, with the remark about UA, that many schools have both supporters and critics.) He said he holds an Arkansas Tech undergrad degree.
An Arkanas Times associate who is was a member of the state's education establishment, decided to investigate Belford University by having his English bulldog, Max Sniffingwell, apply for a degree in "theriogenology/animal reproduction." On payment of $549 by money order, a diploma, transcript and letter of recommendation shortly arrived from the United Arab Emirates.
Please see below for a copy of the letter of application to Belford University from Max Sniffingwell the English Bulldog:
March 1, 2009
Belford University
RE: Online Application for Doctorate Degree in Theriogenology/Animal Reproduction
Description of Experience in the Requested Degree Program
Dear Applicant Reviewer:
My very first job was working in an AKC breeding kennel. Later I went to work for my current employer, a veterinarian whose special interest is reproductive veterinary medicine. Although I have never benefitted from formal education in the breeding sciences, I have learned much in life from my successes and failures both clinical and in the field.
My job as a breeding specialist has primarily centered around predictions of ovulation timing based on observations and sensory detections of hormone/pheromone cycles, vaginal changes, and courtship clues—all very important indicators for successful insemination either by natural or artificial means. I have come to believe that I have a natural ability in theriogenology, especially in the field of canine reproduction where my successes are well documented with the American Kennel Club.
I have done some experimental field work with felines. However these studies, while highly insightful, have served primarily to underscore the scientific value of postulations gone bad, and led to my somewhat reluctant realization that my talents and natural inclinations are best suited for canine reproduction. Also since my employer is a pet doctor, I have experienced only limited exposure to the ins and outs of farm animal breeding services. So in my chosen field of theriogenology, which of course includes all animals, as much as I would like to just “do them all”, I’ve come to understand the prudence of specialization.
However, I do not know if the doctoral degree program at Belford University recognizes species specialties. If not, and, of course, only if I qualify, I respectfully request that you grant my doctoral degree in either “canine” or “general” theriogenology/animal reproduction.
Thank you for considering my application. Your payment of $549 will be mailed as soon as I hear good news from your board of examiners.
Sincerely,
Max Sniffingwell
PS — Max's owner is Dr. Ben Mays, a Clinton veterinarian and member of the state Board of Education. He explains that his investment was to make a point (though he declined the opportunity to make Max an honors grad for an extra $75!)
Fourteen states have laws that make it illegal to use this kind of false credentials in one's line of work. But in Arkansas, stud dogs like Max, and unscrupulous individuals in other fields can use fake diplomas to dupe their clientele.