Converting Tourist To Non Immigrant, Work Permit Etc.

I'm in the process of getting a Non Immigrant B and work permit. On a double entry tourist visa right now and getting all the documents from the company (that is BOI approved). Was looking into converting my visa within Thailand and was told I need to have my college degree with me. I have the original here. That's all find and good but Immigration said it has to be certified by the U.S. Embassy here. Went to the embassy and they said they don't do that, it's illegal, would have to have that done back in the U.S. etc. etc. Does anybody have the real information on what process would work to convert my visa? If it's more trouble than it's worth, then where to do outside of Thailand? KL? Singapore? Hanoi? Don't want to travel only to have some ridiculous illogical reason on why they won't give me the proper visa even though all my paperwork etc. is legit and in order.