Ashford University was a popular name in the world of online education, offering a wide range of degree programsdegree programs. While it’s now known as The University of Arizona Global Campus, it’s still widely searched as Ashford University, and this name holds historical significance. Whether you’re looking for affordable education, online degree options, or career advancement, Ashford University stands as an essential part of this journey.
In this article, I’ll explore Ashford University’s history, programs, admissions, and the experiences students can expect. We’ll also answer common questions about its accreditation, tuition, and reputation, giving you everything you need to know about Ashford University.
A Brief History of Ashford University
Ashford University traces its roots back to 1918, when it was first established as Mount St. Clare College in Clinton, Iowa. Originally, it was a junior college primarily serving women. Over time, the institution evolved, and in 2005 it became Ashford University after being acquired by Bridgepoint Education, a for-profit education company.
Since then, Ashford focused heavily on its online education programs, serving working adults and students seeking flexible learning options. It saw rapid growth due to its easy accessibility, but over the years, it also faced controversies related to accreditation, student debt, and lawsuits.
Today, after its acquisition by The University of Arizona, it is known as the University of Arizona Global Campus. However, many people still refer to it as Ashford University because of its long-standing history.
Programs Offered at Ashford University
Ashford University (or now, UAGCUAGC) provided a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Its online format made it attractive to students who wanted to advance their education without needing to physically attend classes. Here’s a breakdown of some of the key programs:
Undergraduate Degrees
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration
- Bachelor of Arts in Education Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Social and Criminal Justice
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Graduate Degrees
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Arts in Education
- Master of Science in Health Care Administration
- Master of Public Health
- Master of Arts in Organizational Management
Specializations and Certifications
Students could also choose from various specializations, like Human Resource Management, Project Management, or Information Systems, allowing them to tailor their degree to their career goals.
Certification programs were also available for those looking to boost specific skills without committing to a full degree.
The Online Learning Experience
Ashford University became known for its fully online education system, making it ideal for students balancing careers, families, and other responsibilities. Let’s dive deeper into what it’s like to be an Ashford student.
Flexibility and Accessibility
The asynchronous learning format was a major draw. Students could complete assignments at their own pace within certain deadlines. There were no set class times, so you could study whenever it suited your schedule. This was especially appealing to working adults or parents.
Online Tools and Resources
Students had access to a variety of online tools to help with their studies, including:
- Student Portal: A dashboard where you can access your courses, grades, and resources.
- Online Library: A comprehensive library with research databases, books, and journals.
- 24/7 Tech Support: Available for students who needed help with any technical difficulties.
- Tutoring Services: Academic help was available in writing, math, and more.
Admissions Process
Getting into Ashford UniversityGetting into Ashford University was relatively straightforward compared to traditional universities. Here’s a step-by-step look at what the admissions process typically involved:
Step 1: Complete the Application
The application process could be done entirely online. Students simply had to provide basic information about their educational background and career goals.
Step 2: Submit Transcripts
Applicants were required to submit transcripts from any prior college coursework. High school transcripts were needed for students without prior college credits.
Step 3: Speak with an Enrollment Advisor
After submitting your application, you’d be connected with an enrollment advisor who could guide you through the rest of the process, answer any questions, and help you decide which program was the best fit for you.
Step 4: Financial Aid
For students seeking financial aid, Ashford offered access to federal student aid programs, including loans and grants. Scholarships were also available for eligible students.
Tuition and Financial Aid
One of the top concerns for prospective students is tuition costs. Ashford University’s online format made it more affordable than many traditional universities, but costs could still add up. Here’s an idea of the tuition fees:
| Program Level | Tuition (per credit hour) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Programs | $510 |
| Graduate Programs | $665 |
| Doctoral Programs | $1,082 |
Financial Aid Options
Students had access to several financial aid options:
- Federal Loans: Subsidized and unsubsidized loans were available.
- Pell Grants: For eligible students, Pell Grants offered a non-repayable source of funding.
- Scholarships: Various merit-based scholarships were offered.
- Military Benefits: Ashford was military-friendly, offering discounts and benefits for active-duty service members and veterans.
Is Ashford University Accredited?
A frequent question is whether Ashford University was accredited. Yes, Ashford University held accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Accreditation ensures that the school meets certain academic standards, which is critical for transferring credits, qualifying for financial aid, and ensuring the degree holds value in the job market.
However, Ashford’s past has been marred by controversies over its accreditation status, leading to scrutiny from regulators and lawsuits. It’s important to check the current standing of the University of Arizona Global Campus, as the rebranding might have changed certain elements of accreditation.
Reputation and Student Experience
When considering any school, it’s crucial to understand its reputation and the overall student experience. Ashford University had mixed reviews over the years. Some students praised the flexibility and online learning model, while others were critical of the support services and tuition costs.
Pros
- Flexible Schedule: Perfect for students who couldn’t attend traditional classes.
- Wide Range of Programs: From business to health care, Ashford covered many industries.
- Online Resources: An extensive library, tech support, and tutoring were all available online.
Cons
- Cost: Even though it was an online school, some students found tuition to be on the high side.
- Lawsuits and Controversies: The school’s past legal issues affected its reputation.
- Support Services: Some students complained about inadequate academic and career support.
Navigating the Transition to the University of Arizona Global Campus
In 2020, Ashford University transitioned into the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC). For students, this change primarily involved rebranding rather than drastic shifts in academic offerings or programs.
What Stayed the Same?
- Programs and Courses: Many of the degree programs stayed the same.
- Online Learning Format: The flexibility and online resources remained consistent.
What Changed?
- New Leadership: As part of the University of Arizona, students now benefit from leadership under one of the nation’s leading public universities.
- Accreditation: UAGC continues to work on maintaining its accreditation under the University of Arizona’s umbrella, which may enhance its standing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Ashford University the same as the University of Arizona Global Campus?
Yes. In 2020, Ashford University was acquired by the University of Arizona and became the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC). The transition mainly involved rebranding, but many aspects of the school, such as online learning and program offerings, stayed the same.
2. How much is tuition at Ashford University?
For undergraduate programs, tuition was $510 per credit hour, while graduate programs cost $665 per credit hour. Tuition could vary depending on the program and whether students were eligible for any discounts or financial aid.
3. What kind of financial aid is available?
Students could apply for federal student aid (loans and grants), scholarships, and military benefits if applicable.
4. Is Ashford University a good school?
The answer depends on what you’re looking for. If you value flexibility, online learning, and a wide range of degree programs, Ashford (now UAGC) could be a good fit. However, the school has faced past legal challenges and some students found support services lacking.
5. Is Ashford University accredited?
Yes, Ashford University was accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). This accreditation transferred to the University of Arizona Global Campus, but it’s always wise to double-check the current status of accreditation.
Conclusion: Is Ashford University (UAGC) Right for You?
If you’re looking for a flexible online education that allows you to balance work, family, and studies, Ashford University (now UAGC) could be worth considering. It has a wide variety of programs, from business to health care, and offers the convenience of online learning.
However, like any decision, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Look into current student reviews, speak to advisors, and consider your financial situation before committing to a program. Whether you’re aiming for a career boost or looking to change industries, an education from UAGC could help you get there—but make sure it’s the right fit for your goals.