Introduction: Ashford University is a private, for-profit online university based in San Diego, California. Since its founding in 1918, it has undergone several changes in ownership and name, but has always focused on providing accessible higher education to adult learners. However, the question of whether Ashford University is an accredited school has been a subject of concern and confusion for many potential students.
Is Ashford University an Accredited School?
Yes, Ashford University is an accredited school. In fact, it holds multiple accreditations from various recognized bodies. The university is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), which is a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Ashford University also holds programmatic accreditations for some of its specific degree programs, such as its Bachelor of Arts in Accounting program, which is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Accreditation and its importance
Accreditation is a process of external evaluation that ensures that an institution meets certain standards of quality in its educational programs and services. Accreditation is important for students because it assures them that they are attending a school that meets established academic standards and that their degree will be recognized by other institutions and employers.
History of Ashford University’s
Bridgepoint Education in 2005. Under Bridgepoint Education, Ashford University rapidly grew as an online university, offering degree programs to working adults and military personnel. It received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission in 2013 but was placed on probation in 2016 due to concerns about governance, finances, and student outcomes.
In 2018, the university was rebranded as the “University of Arizona Global Campus” and formed a partnership with the University of Arizona. It retained its accreditation and offers online degree programs in various fields, emphasizing flexibility and affordability for its students.
Benefits of attending an accredited school like Ashford University
Attending an accredited school like Ashford University can provide students with several benefits, including access to federal financial aid, transferability of credits to other accredited institutions, and a degree that is recognized by employers and other institutions. Additionally, accreditation ensures that students are receiving a quality education that meets established standards of excellence.
How Ashford University’s has maintained such high standards to keep its accreditation?
Ashford University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), which is one of six regional accrediting agencies recognized by the United States Department of Education. Maintaining accreditation is important for universities because it ensures that they meet certain quality standards and provides a level of assurance to students, employers, and other stakeholders.
To maintain its accreditation, Ashford University undergone a rigorous review process that includes periodic self-evaluations, peer reviews, and site visits by WSCUC representatives. The university demonstrated that it meets certain criteria related to its educational programs, faculty, student services, and other areas. These criteria include:
1. Educational programs: Ashford University must provide high-quality academic programs that are relevant and rigorous, and that lead to student learning outcomes. The university must also demonstrate that it assesses student learning and uses that information to improve its programs.
2. Faculty: The university must employ qualified faculty who are committed to teaching and scholarship, and who are engaged in ongoing professional development.
3. Student services: Ashford University must provide comprehensive student services that support student learning and success, including academic advising, career services, and student activities.
4. Institutional resources: The university must have adequate financial, physical, and technological resources to support its programs and services.
5. Institutional integrity: Ashford University must demonstrate that it operates with integrity and transparency, and that it adheres to ethical and legal standards.
By meeting these criteria and undergoing regular review by WSCUC, Ashford University has demonstrated its commitment to maintaining high standards and providing a quality education to its students.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ashford University is an accredited school that holds multiple accreditations from recognized bodies. Attending an accredited school can provide students with several benefits, and accreditation ensures that they are receiving a quality education that meets established standards of excellence. Therefore, students can feel confident in their decision to attend Ashford University and pursue their academic and career goals.
Frequently asked question
- Is Ashford University accredited by a recognized agency?
Yes, Ashford University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), which is a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- Does Ashford University hold any programmatic accreditations?
Yes, Ashford University holds programmatic accreditations for some of its specific degree programs, such as its Bachelor of Arts in Accounting program, which is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
- Has Ashford University ever lost its accreditation?
Yes, Ashford University lost its accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) in 2013 due to concerns about its financial stability and administrative structure. However, the university has since regained accreditation from WSCUC and other recognized accrediting bodies.
