How can an employer find out if you went to a certain university, or got a...

[James H]

...degree from them if your student? information and transcripts are not public information? I have to prove who I am before they will give me my transcripts.

 

[Mariel]

They cannot access your transcripts, but they can call to verify if you are a student, or if you completed your degree. Plus its on a data base.
When you sign an employment application, you are allowing your potential employer to check your background information.

 

[oikos]

Simple. When you apply, they ask for a copy of your transcript.