The growing demand for online education has attracted many scammers, creating bogus institutions and diploma mills. These people create professional looking websites, catchy taglines and present their accreditation from fancy institutions. Unfortunately, these institutions are not recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or they may not exist in the first place.

It's important that you take the necessary precautions to spot these degree mills to avoid spending money for a fake diploma.

Red flags to look out for:

• Diploma mills have names that sound similar to established universities. This is meant to confuse the unwary. For instance, Columbia University in the City of New York, known more as Columbia University, is a well-known private institution and a member of the Ivy League. It's not surprising why there is a bogus institution called Columbus University. 


• The organization changes addresses frequently. Some even move from state to state. Moreover, the institution may lack an actual street address.


• They overemphasize the speed it would take to earn degrees. For instance, some diploma mills promise that their students can earn a bachelor's degree in just two years. Some even promise degrees in just a month.


• Admission is easy, and the institution doesn't care about your previous test scores.


• Program requirements are vague and don't specify exactly how many credit hours are needed to complete the course.


• Tuitions and fees are usually settled on a per-degree basis.


• At the time of your purchase, they can actually specify the GPA or honors you want to receive.

What you can do to protect yourself

• Always check the U.S. Department of Education Database of Accredited Postsecondary schools (http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/).


• Contact the attorney general's office and the Better Business Bureau to make sure that the institution is operating legally in the state. You'll also be able to inquire if the school has received complaints of any kind.


• Ask if the school is affiliated with a reputable parent company.


• Ask about the faculty's credentials and areas of expertise. Keep in mind that diploma mills don't let their "students" have much interaction with their teachers. If an institution is elusive about inquiries concerning their faculty, consider that a warning sign.

Do you think boosting your income is a stretch? Think again. With the right training program, you can earn a hefty income raise. Here are some examples:

Marketing Research Analyst - According to the Bureau Labor Statistics (BLS), market research analysts earn a median annual salary of $58,423. But for those who want more, you should pursue graduate studies in Marketing. At the vice-president level, you can earn more than double: as much as $146,000.

Registered Nurse - The BLS estimates the median annual salary of nurses at $56,763. Aside from a promising income, RNs also benefit from very good job security. So how can you improve what's already good? Earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and become a nurse practitioner. An advanced-practice nurse like a nurse anesthetist can earn a median annual salary of up to $141,000.  

Electrical Engineer - Engineering graduates benefit from some of the highest paying entry-level jobs. With the right training program, you can maximize your income and earn six-digit salaries. Acquiring management skills through a graduate or certificate program is highly recommended for higher positions in the field. A Research and Development Manager, for instance, earns a median annual salary of $111,000. A vice-president of engineering can earn up to $132,000.

Pharmacist - Although pharmacists are often in a retail setting, they do enjoy excellent job security. For those who want to advance their careers and earn more, a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) from an accredited institution is a good idea. You'll be able to pursue opportunities in drugstore management and up your median annual salary to $123,867.

Earning new degrees for a successful career change may take less time than you think. There are associate's degrees that can land you top paying jobs. Here are some of the top associate's degrees that can land you high paying jobs:

Associate's Degree in Computer Science - You can become a computer programmer by earning this degree. Computer programmers earned a mean annual salary of $73,470 in 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). A bachelor's degree is necessary to advance beyond entry-level positions.

Associate's Degree in Dental Hygiene - Dental hygienists enjoyed a mean annual wage of $66,950 in 2008. The top earners in this field usually work for multiple dentists. Aside from the associate's degree, dental hygienists must pass the test administered by The American Dental Association's (ADA) Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations in order to be licensed.

Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) - Arguably the most popular healthcare job, registered nurses enjoy a hefty salary and good job security. In 2008, registered nurses earned a mean annual salary of $65,130. Keep in mind that all nurses are required to pass the National Council Licensure Examination.

Associate's Degree in Legal Assisting - Legal assistants help lawyers prepare for cases. Aside from a mean annual salary worth $48,790, legal assistants also benefit from flexibility, since part-time work is the common practice in the field. For the best opportunities, you may want to earn certification from the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) or other similar groups.

Associate's Degree in Engineering Technology - According to the BLS, civil engineering technicians earn a mean annual salary of $45,730. Expect to travel and visit work sites regularly.