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About

Important information

  • Additional Info:
    The Center for Degree Studies program began in 1974. This program offers college-level courses leading to an Associate in Specialized Business and Associate in Specialized Technology degrees. Although some colleges and universities accept transfers for CDS courses, others may not. Consumers are advised to check the admissions practice of the college in which they plan to enroll before signing up for CDS courses.



    The high school program began in 1972. They award a diploma upon completion of the course. This course was approved by the PA State Board of Private Licensed Schools. Consumers should check with their state to verify acceptance.



    Consumers should read and understand any contract they sign, understand their cancellation rights, and contact the school directly to answer questions regarding policies or courses.
  • Customer Complaint:
    Penn Foster would like to expedite a solution to any issues you may have. They ask that prior to filing a complaint with the BBB please contact them directly at  570-961-4014 and Corinne Lenzer or Marie Allen would be happy to help you. 

About This Business

Penn Foster offers distance education courses at both the secondary and post secondary level. Penn Foster Career School offers degree and vocational programs while Penn Foster High School administers the High School Program.

BBB Accredited Since: 8/2/1962

Years in Business: 129

Products and Services

Accounting Associate Degree, Administrative Assistant, AutoCAD Certificate, Automotive Repair Technician, Bookkeeping, Business Management Associate Degree, Business Management Bachelor's Degree, Caterer, CDA Credential Prep, Child Care Professional, Child Psychology Certificate, Computer Information Systems Associate Degree, Construction Trades, Criminal Justice Associate Degree, Criminal Justice Bachelor's Degree, Dental Assistant, Diesel Mechanics, Dog Obedience Trainer, Dressmaking and Design, Early Childhood Education Associate Degree, Electronics Technician, English Language Training, Event Planning, Fitness and Nutrition Certificate, General Studies Certificate, Gourmet Cooking Certificate, Graphic Design Associate Degree, Guest Service Agent, Gunsmith, High School Diploma, Hotel and Restaurant Management, HVACR Technician, Industrial Electronics Associate Degree, Interior Decorator, Interior Design Associate Degree, IT Support Specialist, Legal Secretary, Medical Administrative Assistant, Medical Assistant, Medical Billing and Coding, Motorcycle Repair Technician, Optician Exam Prep, Paralegal, Paralegal Studies Associate Degree, Pet Grooming, Pharmacy Technician, Plumber, Private Investigator, Residential Electrician, Small Engine Repair, Tax Preparation, Travel Agent, Veterinary Assistant, Veterinary Practice Management Certificate, Veterinary Technician Associate Degree, Veterinary Technology Bachelor's Degree, Wedding Planner

Business Details

BBB File Opened:
1/1/1962
Business Started:
1/1/1897
Business Started Locally:
1/1/1897
Business Incorporated:
8/23/1985
Type of Entity:
Corporation
Alternate Names:
Penn Foster Career School
Thomson Education Direct
Penn Foster High School
Penn Foster College
Business Management:
Mr. Thomas Blesso, CFO
Mr. Kermit Cook, CEO
Mr. Frank Jalufka, CFO

Additional Contact Information

Principal Contacts
Mr. Thomas Blesso, CFO
Mr. Kermit Cook, CEO
Customer Contacts
Ms. Kendall ddle Espinosa, Learner Success Specialist
Fax numbers
Other Fax: (570) 961-4888
Additional Phone Numbers
Other Phone: (570) 961-4014
Other Phone: (888) 427-1000
Other Phone: (800) 275-4410
Other Phone: (800) 471-3232
Other Phone: (888) 427-6200

Licensing information

This business is in an industry that may require professional licensing, bonding or registration. BBB encourages you to check with the appropriate agency to be certain any requirements are currently being met.

BBB records show a license number of AUN 419355759 for this business, issued by Department of Education-PA

Department of Education-PA

333 Market Street

Harrisburg PA 17126-0333

  • Penn Foster is licensed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Private Licensed Schools and accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council in Washington, DC (202-234-5100) (www.detc.org).

Additional Information

Latest Reviews

  • Christy M

    "What a joke, I wasted my time and money on this program, they promise you it's a great experience, It was a total nightmare !" ... Read full review

  • C T

    "Terrible experience academic review on completed course. My account has been on hold for more than two months after I finished yet still asked to pay monthly when I want to pay in full and graduate." ... Read full review

  • andi o

    "I understand cutting costs through outsourcing; however, I am tired of feeling disconnected because their agents lack English proficiency and don't resolve any questions. As a first-generation student, I understand that, to a certain extent, when English is not someone's first language, there is a fine line of basic comprehension that must be met." ... Read full review

View all Reviews

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