October 8, 2004

U. of Phoenix Uses Pressure in Recruiting, Report Says

Institution disputes charges that it pumps up enrollment through illegal tactics

By GOLDIE BLUMENSTYK

The fast-growing University of Phoenix fosters a high-pressure sales culture that rewards recruiters who put the most "asses in classes," intimidates those who fall short, and encourages enrollment of unqualified students, concludes a newly released report by the U.S. Department of Education.

The review of the for-profit university's compensation practices, released last month shortly after the company paid a multimillion-dollar fine to the department to settle the matter, says