According to the most recent report of Accredibase, the UK-based background screening company Verifile Limited, there was a staggering 48% increase in the number of known degree or diploma mills operating worldwide last year. It identified more than 2,500 bogus institutions across all regions, but primarily in North America and Europe.
Most of the post-secondary academic community-industry appears to ignore fundamental economic realities. Except for the elite institutions at the top of the league tables, the vast majority must compete in the market for students. Each institution's student enrolment, directly or in varying indirect degrees, provides the requisite revenue to cover current and projected costs.