When you’re thinking about attending a university, one of the first questions you might ask is, “Is this school accredited?” Accreditation is like a seal of approval for colleges and universities. It tells you that the school meets certain academic standards, ensuring that the education you receive is worthwhile and recognized. For students, accreditation matters because it can affect everything from the value of your degree to your ability to transfer credits and get financial aid.
Now, let’s dive into Ashford University, a well-known online institution, and explore its accreditation journey.
History of Ashford University
Ashford University began as Mount St. Clare College in 1918 in Clinton, Iowa. It started as a small, brick-and-mortar school before making the jump to online education in the early 2000s. By 2005, it became known as Ashford University, a fully online institution, which attracted many students across the United States and internationally. Its online offerings allowed working adults and non-traditional students to earn degrees without needing to relocate or attend classes in person.
The Transition to Online Learning
During its growth, Ashford University moved heavily into the online learning space. Many students found this appealing as it provided flexibility in schedules, allowing people to juggle their studies with work, family, and other commitments. However, with its rapid expansion came increased scrutiny, particularly around its accreditation status.
The Role of Accreditation in Ashford University’s Growth
Accreditation is crucial because it impacts:
- Transferability of credits
- Eligibility for federal financial aid
- Employability of graduates
Ashford University initially held regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). But in 2010, the university faced a major shift. It decided to move its accreditation to a different agency — the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). This change caused confusion and concern among students, especially as they tried to figure out how it would affect their degrees.
Why Did Ashford University Change Its Accreditation?
So, why did Ashford University switch accrediting bodies? The move to WASC was seen as a strategic decision because WASC accredits many online and for-profit universities, providing more flexibility for Ashford’s growing online programs. While the switch initially raised eyebrows, it allowed the university to focus more on its mission to serve a non-traditional student body, especially working adults.
Understanding Regional vs. National Accreditation
When we talk about accreditation, it’s important to understand the two main types: regional accreditation and national accreditation.
Regional Accreditation:
- This is the most widely respected form of accreditation.
- It’s typically associated with traditional, non-profit colleges and universities.
- Credits from regionally accredited schools are often more easily transferable.
National Accreditation:
- More common among for-profit and online schools.
- Often focuses on specific vocational, technical, or career-based programs.
- Credits are usually not as easily transferable to regionally accredited schools.
Ashford University was regionally accredited, which was a big plus for students who wanted to make sure their degrees were respected by employers and other institutions.
What Happened to Ashford University’s Accreditation?
In 2019, Ashford University’s journey took another turn when it was acquired by the University of Arizona and rebranded as The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC). This acquisition raised more questions about accreditation. Was UAGC accredited, and if so, by whom?
Yes, UAGC is accredited. It’s important to know that UAGC is regionally accredited by WASC, just like Ashford University was. This means the degrees earned through UAGC carry the same weight as those from other regionally accredited institutions.
Table: Key Moments in Ashford University’s Accreditation Journey
| Year | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1918 | Founding of Mount St. Clare College | A traditional college in Clinton, Iowa |
| 2005 | Rebranded as Ashford University | Focus shifts to online education |
| 2010 | Transition to WASC Accreditation | Moved from Higher Learning Commission (HLC) to Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) |
| 2019 | Acquired by University of Arizona | Became University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) |
| 2020 | Official Rebranding as UAGC | UAGC maintains WASC accreditation |
FAQs About Ashford University Accreditation
1. Is Ashford University still accredited?
Ashford University itself no longer exists as a separate entity, but its successor, University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC), is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
2. Can I transfer credits from Ashford University to another school?
Since Ashford was regionally accredited, many schools will accept transfer credits. However, it’s always a good idea to check with the receiving institution to confirm transfer policies.
3. Did the University of Arizona acquisition affect accreditation?
No, the acquisition did not negatively affect accreditation. UAGC remains regionally accredited by WASC, maintaining the credibility of its degrees.
Why Accreditation Matters for You
When considering any college or university, always check its accreditation status. Whether you’re planning to transfer credits, apply for federal financial aid, or simply ensure your degree will be recognized by employers, accreditation plays a significant role. Without proper accreditation, you might find it difficult to secure jobs, pursue further education, or even qualify for certain loans or scholarships.
Federal Financial Aid and Accreditation
One of the biggest reasons students care about accreditation is that it determines whether they qualify for federal financial aid. The U.S. Department of Education only provides financial aid to students enrolled in accredited institutions. If your school isn’t accredited, you won’t have access to valuable grants, loans, or work-study programs.
For students who attended Ashford University or are now enrolled at UAGC, rest assured that your education qualifies for federal financial aid. As long as the institution maintains its regional accreditation, your financial aid is secure.
Navigating the Online Education Landscape
With more students turning to online education, accreditation is more important than ever. Institutions like Ashford University helped pioneer the online learning space, making education accessible to people who couldn’t attend traditional classes. However, this also meant that many for-profit institutions entered the scene, some of which lacked proper accreditation. As a student, it’s crucial to distinguish between accredited and non-accredited schools to ensure you’re making a wise investment in your future.
How to Check Accreditation Status
You can easily check if a school is accredited by visiting the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs. This database allows you to search by school name or accrediting body to verify that the institution you’re considering meets accreditation standards.
Tips for Students Choosing an Accredited Online University
- Do your research – Always verify the accreditation of any online school you’re considering. Regional accreditation is typically the gold standard.
- Ask about transfer policies – If you plan to transfer credits in the future, make sure the school has a solid transfer credit policy.
- Look for student reviews – Hearing from current and former students can provide valuable insights into the quality of education and student support.
- Check financial aid eligibility – Ensure the school’s accreditation allows for federal financial aid if you plan to rely on it.
- Consider long-term goals – Make sure the degree program aligns with your career or academic aspirations.
Ashford University Accreditation and the Future of Online Education
Ashford University’s story reflects the broader evolution of online education. The move from traditional, on-campus classes to a fully online platform marked a significant shift in how students learn. Along the way, accreditation became a key focus for both the institution and its students, ensuring that degrees held value in the real world.
Today, under the banner of the University of Arizona Global Campus, the institution remains committed to offering accessible, flexible, and accredited education to a diverse student body. Whether you’re a working adult, a military service member, or a stay-at-home parent, the accreditation journey of Ashford University assures you that your investment in education is secure.
Conclusion: Why Accreditation Should Be Your Top Priority
If you’re considering enrolling in an online university, accreditation is the first thing you should check. It’s the foundation of a quality education and ensures that your degree will be recognized by employers, other schools, and even the government. Ashford University’s journey — from a small college in Iowa to a massive online institution — highlights the importance of this. Despite its ups and downs, the school maintained regional accreditation, preserving the value of its degrees for thousands of students.
Now, as the University of Arizona Global Campus, the institution continues to provide accredited, flexible education, making it a solid option for non-traditional students seeking to advance their careers or academic goals.