Affordable Ashford University Diploma Options Compared

Order Ashford University Diploma

For many prospective students, finding a flexible and accessible path to a degree is a top priority. This search often leads to inquiries about Ashford University, an online-focused institution that played a significant role in the landscape of distance education. This guide provides clear, factual information to help you understand Ashford University’s history, its current status, and the important factors to consider for your educational journey. Get an Ashford University degree online. 

What Was Ashford University?

Ashford University was originally founded in 1918 as a small college in Clinton, Iowa. For decades, it operated as a traditional campus-based institution. A major transformation began in 2005 when it was acquired by Bridgepoint Education and dramatically expanded its online programming. This shift positioned Ashford as a prominent name in online, for-profit higher education, serving a large population of non-traditional, working-adult students across the United States. Realistic Ashford University diploma.

Its model was built on key pillars:

• Flexible Online Format: Asynchronous courses allowed students to complete weekly assignments on their own schedules.

• Accelerated Pace: Most courses were five to six weeks long, enabling continuous progression.

• Broad Program Offerings: It offered a wide range of online associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in fields like Business, Education, Psychology, Healthcare, and Liberal Arts.

• Open Admissions Policy: The university generally had a non-selective admissions process, requiring a high school diploma or equivalent.

A Crucial Transition: From Ashford University to the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC)

This is the most critical piece of information for anyone researching Ashford University.

In 2020, Ashford University’s parent company, Zovio (formerly Bridgepoint Education), agreed with the University of Arizona, a public, non-profit R1 research university. As part of this agreement:

1. Ashford University was acquired by the University of Arizona.

2. In December 2020, Ashford University ceased to exist as an independent institution.

3. Its academic programs and student body were transitioned into a new, fully online entity called the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC).

What does this mean for former or prospective students?

• Prospective Students: You cannot enroll in “Ashford University.” You would now be considering the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC). It is essential to research UAGC directly, including its accreditation, program offerings, costs, and student support services.

• Ashford Alumni: Your degree remains valid and was issued by an accredited institution. Your academic records are now maintained by UAGC. You can contact UAGC for transcripts and verification.

• Former Ashford Students with Concerns: The history of Ashford University has been subject to regulatory scrutiny. If you have specific concerns related to your time as an Ashford student, it is advisable to contact UAGC directly or seek independent educational advising.

Key Considerations for Your Research

When evaluating any online university—including the successor to Ashford, UAGC—it is vital to conduct thorough due diligence. Here are essential factors to investigate:

• Accreditation: Confirm the institution’s current accreditation status. UAGC is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), the same regional accreditor that accredited Ashford University. Regional accreditation is crucial for credit transfer and degree recognition.

• Cost & Financial Transparency: Carefully review all tuition costs, fees, and financial aid options. Understand the total cost of the degree, not just the per-credit price.

• Student Support Services: Investigate the resources available for online students, including academic advising, tutoring, career services, and technical support.

• Learning Format: Ensure the asynchronous, accelerated online model aligns with your learning style and time commitments.

• Career Outcomes: Research available data on graduate employment rates or further education, if provided by the institution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is Ashford University still active?
A: No. Ashford University closed and transitioned into the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) in December 2020.

Q: Is a degree from Ashford University still valid?
A: Yes. Degrees earned from Ashford University while it was accredited remain valid. Accreditation ensures the degree was granted by an institution that met quality standards at the time.

Q: Who holds my Ashford University transcripts now?
A: Academic records are held by the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC). You must request official transcripts through UAGC.

Q: What happened to Ashford University? Why did it change?
A: The acquisition by the University of Arizona was a strategic shift. It aimed to transition the online programs into a new structure under the umbrella of a major public non-profit university.