Diplomokkojen

Diplomokkojen is a Finnish term that translates loosely to "diploma mill" or "degree mill." It refers to an institution that offers degrees and diplomas without requiring proper academic study or legitimate accreditation. These entities often operate online or through correspondence, making false claims about their educational standards and the value of their credentials.

The primary purpose of a diplomokkojen is to sell degrees for a fee, bypassing the rigorous processes typically associated with higher education. These degrees are often worthless in the job market and are not recognized by legitimate academic institutions or professional bodies. Individuals who purchase diplomas from such establishments may face consequences if they attempt to use them for employment or further studies.

The Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture actively combats diplomokkojen by raising public awareness and working to prevent their operation within Finland and to prevent Finnish citizens from being defrauded by foreign diploma mills. They emphasize the importance of verifying the accreditation and legitimacy of any educational institution before enrolling or accepting a degree. The term "diplomokko" is often used derisively to describe someone who possesses a degree from such an institution.