William asked:

Can anyone form a seat of learning, i.e. a college or university? Are there a criteria one must
undertake? Does such a proposed institution have to submit itself to a process of some kind, or can it
form itself independently, as for instance, a private company does? How then are academic
qualifications accredited?

===========

The answer to your questions depends very much on where you live. As I understand it, in some
countries, such as Australia where I live, and the UK (probably many others) there are strict rules
about the use of the term 'university', and the need for accreditation from an official body. In others,
like (I believe) the USA, the rules are much less restrictive. Consequently, you can be sure that any
degree issued in the former countries is worthwhile, while in the latter countries, you need to
investigate the status of the issuing institution.

Tim Sprod