The HECC has recommended License Suspension per OAR 715-045-0065 and Required Corrective Actions to: Epicodus Inc. (Private Career School License #2002). This is a Portland-based private career school offering training programs in computer programming and software development. License #2002 is for Epicodus’ Portland school located at 400 SW 6th Avenue, Portland, OR 97204
The HECC learned from students that Epicodus cancelled some classes that it intended to start in January. The school communicated to students in those classes that the cancellations were because the school plans to close. Epicodus has confirmed to HECC that it plans to close, however the closing date has not been determined and Epicodus currently remains open with other classes still underway.
The HECC issued a Notice of License Suspension on January 22, 2024. License Suspension would prevent the school from advertising for, enrolling new students in, or collecting payment for future classes. Please note that Epicodus has a 21-day period during which it can appeal this Suspension per OAR 715-045-0065(5)(c). The notice also included requirements that Epicodus do the following:
Follow the required school closure process outlined in OAR 715-045-0067;
Provide all required tuition and fee refunds for students who were enrolled in the January classes that it cancelled, per HECC’s refund rules such as OAR 715-045-0036; and
Provide detailed financial information to the HECC showing the extent to which it can meet its financial obligations including completing classes underway and providing refunds for any students.
Questions regarding refunds or school closure should be directed to the following contact at Epicodus: Rachel Bussert, phone: (503) 420-0275, E-mail: rachel@epicodus.com.
Tuition Protection Fund (TPF):
While Epicodus remains open and continues to operate, it is the school’s responsibility to teach students to completion or provide any refunds due to noncompleting students, per its enrollment contracts, HECC rules, and Oregon law. The school should not refer students to the HECC to seek TPF refunds.
However, if Epicodus ultimately fails to provide refunds to students because it has closed or ceased instruction, the HECC will permit students affected by any closure to submit claims for unpaid refunds against the state’s Tuition Protection Fund (TPF). The TPF is a fund of last resort, funded entirely by fees from licensed career schools, including Epicodus. Any TPF claim process would not begin before Epicodus ceases all instructional services. HECC will work to determine what options are available for students.