1. State Archives or Department of Education:
* Start here: Your state's archives or department of education likely holds records of defunct schools within its jurisdiction. They might have the original degree records or at least know where they might have been transferred. Contact them directly; their websites usually have contact information.
2. County Clerk's Office or Recorder of Deeds:
* Local records: Sometimes, schools maintained records locally. Check with the county clerk's office or recorder of deeds in the county where the school was located.
3. Alumni Associations (if one exists):
* Networking: If an alumni association for the school still exists (even if it's inactive), they might have preserved some records or know individuals who do. Search online for the school's name plus "alumni association."
4. Historical Societies or Libraries:
* Local history: Local historical societies or university libraries (especially those in the same area as the defunct school) might have archived records or information about the school.
5. National Archives (if applicable):
* Federal involvement: If the school received federal funding or was involved in any national programs, the National Archives might have some relevant documents. This is less likely but worth investigating if other avenues fail.
6. Private Record Holders:
* Long shot: There's a slim chance that a private entity, such as a law firm that handled the school's closure or a former administrator, might possess some records. This requires significant research and networking.
Important Considerations:
* Time Sensitivity: The longer the school has been closed, the more difficult it will be to find records. Start your search as soon as possible.
* Documentation: Gather any documents you have related to your education at the school (transcripts, enrollment forms, etc.), as these can assist in your search.
* Persistence: This is likely to require persistence and contacting multiple organizations. Be prepared to make several phone calls and send emails.
If all else fails, you might need to consider obtaining a statement from the state or a relevant official verifying that the school existed and that you attended, if you need proof of your education for specific purposes. This may not be a full degree replacement but could suffice in certain situations.