This is the problem with “branding” and ranking in the American university system. People believe Caltech is a good school, so they automatically assume it is worth the high price.

Maybe a solution is to be clear if a class or program is taught by an FTE instructor, or if the program is outsourced? There’s nothing wrong with trying new things to make more money (student enrollments are declining), but be clear about who is teaching the course and how they are affiliated with your brand.