FACT SHEET
Ashford University (AU) is defining the modern college experience by combining the heritage of a traditional campus
with the flexibility and effectiveness of online learning. The University provides a vibrant learning community where
high quality programs and leading-edge technology create a dynamic, immersive and stimulating learning experience.
The University offers practical and progressive associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs online, as well as
bachelor’s degree programs at its Clinton, Iowa, campus. Ashford University – where heritage meets innovation.
HISTORY
AU was founded in 1918 by the Sisters of St. Francis in Clinton, Iowa. Originally named Mount St. Clare College, it
was intended to serve the higher education needs for residents of Clinton and the surrounding areas. In 2005,
Bridgepoint Education, Inc., a higher education company, acquired the institution (then named The Franciscan
University of the Prairies) and changed its name to Ashford University.
EDUCATION
AU is defining the modern college experience by offering a vibrant learning community deeply rooted in tradition.
By combining leading-edge technology with degree programs tailored for the on-campus traditional student, as well
as for the working adult student learning online, AU is making high quality education more accessible and engaging
to a diverse range of individuals. Students may transfer up to 90 approved credits to AU, allowing students to achieve
their educational and career goals faster. In 2013, AU and Forbes Media announced an alliance between the
University’s School of Business and a subsidiary of the global media company. Ashford’s College of Business and
Professional Studies is now known as the Forbes School of Business.
UNIVERSITY STRUCTURE
 AU is part of the Bridgepoint Education university system which, as of December 31, 2014, had a total student
enrollment of 55,823 students. This system also includes University of the Rockies, located in Colorado.
 As of December 31, 2013, total ground/campus student enrollment for AU was 796 students.
 AU students come from all 50 states, as well as from the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S.
Virgin Islands, and various Department of Defense sites overseas.
 AU maintains limited class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio to ensure personalized, one-on-one attention
for all of its students.
THE CAMPUS
Location: AU is located in Clinton, Iowa, a scenic small town between Chicago, Ill. and Des Moines, Iowa.
Amenities: The 24-acre campus features seven major buildings designed to meet students’ academic, athletic, and
social needs. The library houses a multitude of volumes, periodicals, and learning materials, with easy access to
online databases. AU’s Flavian Achievement Center provides students with individual attention in those areas of
study where they are experiencing difficulty. Professional staff and peer tutors offer these services at no additional
charge to students.
Recreation: There are 17 varsity intercollegiate athletics teams ranging from basketball to volleyball and more than
30 on-campus student organizations.
Enrollment: AU’s online degree programs can be accessed by visiting the official website at www.ashford.edu.
Service: Online students may log in to their classes anytime, 24-hours a day. Student Advisors provide expert
assistance via email and phone to ensure all students receive the same education benefits as their campus
counterparts.
Web Address: www.ashford.edu
Address: 8620 Spectrum Center Blvd. San Diego, CA 92123
Toll-Free Information Hot Line: 866-711-1700
Media Contact: Shari Winet, VP of Public Relations, at 858-513-9240 ext. 2513
03.10.2015