Thanks for clarification John.

My concern was that someone may read it and say “OK, where’s the catch” and dismiss what should be an important bit of information to anyone without a degree that either wants to get into the profession or that thinks they may want to upgrade in the next 3 to 5 +- years.

I know with what I spend on appraisal related courses for CE and personal advancement and development that courses that don’t require my dipping in to my pocket get more consideration than those that do.

In today’s world, it must be said… and resaid… too many people now a days (especially younger folks) do believe money grows on trees.

Did not mean to imply that you were silly or stupid. Sorry if it came across that way.

Additionally there is the ‘cost’ of actually studying in terms of time. Silly me, I assumed most readers would understand some effort may be required to successfully complete the degree.

I spoke with our Executive VP today and he is going to try to confirm the specific details so that members and prospective members can simply call Jan Bellas and get the information from her.

I’m interested in the courses myself and I will let you know via the blog anytime I learn more.

This COULD be a more viable path forward for members and appraisers that want a four year degree but have neither the time nor funds to attend a traditional brick and mortar college. I don’t need it for certification or job purposes but I am interested for my own purposes.

I’m old enough and sufficiently well informed on appraisal theory and procedures to where I can hold my own with anyone, BUT for more than 47 years the absence of that specific (degree) piece of paper has either made it harder to advance or closed certain opportunities off completely.

I encourage any appraiser, no matter how well established they are to consider it. I see it as an opportunity to get an associates degree in two or less years with potential to CLEP or mix-CLEP for the remaining two years needed for a BA or BS depending on field selected.

I was thinking of a degree in Real Estate (did you know that you can now get a Phd in Real Estate?).

Also, have to admit that looking to the future of our profession, that right now it is a toss up for a degree in real estate or basket weaving. The latter seems to have greater future potential (imho).

Seriously, for younger entrants to the profession where it takes 4 or 5 years to gain any recognizable credibility anyway, why not invest the time for a degree too?