By Thomas Bartlett

The U.S. Department of Education publishes an online directory of organizations that can "provide information and assistance on a broad range of education-related topics." But how trustworthy is that directory?

A recent search of the Education Resource Organizations Directory revealed a number of organizations that might raise eyebrows. Among them was Victorville International University, whose Web site touts its "excellent reputation for graduating pristine domestic graduates who have gained success in their own industries alike."

Several telephone calls to Victorville, in California, all went to voice mail. Victorville is on the State of Oregon's list of "unaccredited degree suppliers."

Also listed was the American Association for Higher Education & Accreditation, which is not a recognized accreditation body. In an interview for a 2008 article in The Chronicle, an official with the association, D.A. (Doc) Brady, a hypnotherapist, called the rules for becoming an approved accreditor "retarded."

Both organizations were removed from the directory after they were brought to the Education Department's attention.

Also removed was California University FCE, which charges $100 for a service called "diploma equivalency." The certificates it issues look very much like real college diplomas.