Massachusetts Sergeant Brice Leslie is facing criticism for using a suspicious masters degree. The Worcester Telegram reports:

"I had master's credits from military courses," he said yesterday, "and I also took courses from the University of Maryland while overseas, and various other courses."

"What they do then (at Shelburne University) is they take what you have for credit along with life experiences and everything else and make a determination. They send you tests ... and if you pass their requirements they will issue you a master's degree."

"It was cheap," Sgt. Leslie said. "They accepted all my credits and it worked for me, so that's what I did. They assured me the university was accredited and the degree was accepted by police departments all over the world."

However this matter is resolved, it is yet another reminder of the value in choosing a reputable school. It may be cheaper and easier to choose a non-accredited college, but the potential damage to your professional reputation is rarely worth it.