Ashford University Online Degrees & Rankings

Ashford University, a private liberal arts institution based in Clinton, Iowa, has evolved significantly since its founding in 1918 as Mount St. Clare College. Over the years, it has adapted to meet the needs of a changing educational landscape, and in 2005, it was rebranded as Ashford University. This rebranding marked a significant shift in the university’s focus, particularly toward expanding its online educational offerings. Today, Ashford University is widely recognized for providing a flexible, high-quality education to students across the United States and beyond. It offers a wide array of degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels, both online and at its campus in Clinton, Iowa.

The university's transition to online education has been pivotal in making higher education more accessible for non-traditional students. Many of these students are working professionals, parents, or military personnel, who benefit from the flexibility of online learning. Students enrolled in Ashford University’s online programs have the freedom to log in and participate in classes at times that fit their personal schedules, which allows them to balance their studies with other responsibilities. This model has attracted a diverse student body seeking a high-quality education without the constraints of traditional in-person classes.

Online Associate’s Degree Programs

Ashford University offers a variety of associate’s degree programs that serve as foundational courses for students who wish to further their education or enter the workforce immediately. One of the key offerings at this level is the Associate of Arts in Business. This program provides a comprehensive introduction to the core principles of business, including marketing, accounting, and management. Students are equipped with a foundational understanding of how businesses operate, which they can build upon if they choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree later on. This associate degree is also valuable for students who want to enter entry-level positions in business-related fields right after graduation.

While the associate's programs at Ashford University are designed to be accessible and practical, they also incorporate essential general education components, such as critical thinking, writing, and communication skills. These components ensure that graduates are not only prepared for their specific field of study but are also well-rounded individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to the workforce.

Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs

At the bachelor’s degree level, Ashford University offers a wide variety of programs, catering to students with a broad range of academic interests. One of the most popular programs is the Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, which provides students with a comprehensive understanding of business fundamentals. Students in this program learn about key areas such as management, economics, marketing, and organizational behavior. This degree is ideal for individuals seeking leadership or managerial roles within companies, as it equips them with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions and manage various business operations effectively.

In addition to the Business Administration program, Ashford University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting, which focuses on preparing students for careers in financial management, auditing, and accounting. Students in this program gain hands-on experience with accounting software and learn how to manage financial records, prepare reports, and ensure compliance with tax and regulatory standards. Graduates of the Accounting program are prepared to pursue professional certifications and work in a variety of sectors, including public accounting, corporate finance, and government agencies.

Ashford also offers several other undergraduate programs, such as the Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies, which provides students with the skills needed to excel in media, public relations, corporate communications, and journalism. Similarly, the Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education is designed for individuals looking to pursue a career in teaching young children, offering a comprehensive understanding of child development, curriculum design, and classroom management techniques.

For those interested in social sciences and public service, Ashford offers degrees such as the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, which delves into human behavior, cognitive processes, and emotional development, preparing students for careers in counseling, human services, or social work. Another standout program is the Bachelor of Arts in Social and Criminal Justice, which provides students with an understanding of the criminal justice system, law enforcement, and crime prevention. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to pursue careers in law enforcement, corrections, or social work, among other fields.

Ashford University also offers specialized programs, such as the Bachelor of Arts in Health Care Administration and Bachelor of Arts in Human Resources Management, both of which prepare students for leadership roles in their respective fields. The Health Care Administration program focuses on the management of healthcare organizations, covering topics such as healthcare policy, ethics, and financial management. Similarly, the Human Resources Management program trains students in employee relations, organizational behavior, and labor laws, providing them with the skills needed to manage human resources within companies effectively.

For those with an interest in technology, the Bachelor of Arts in Business Information Systems program is an excellent choice. It teaches students how to use technology to improve business processes and make data-driven decisions. Additionally, students pursuing degrees in areas such as Environmental Studies and Sports and Recreation Management gain specialized knowledge that equips them for careers in environmental protection, recreation planning, and event management, among others.

Online Master’s Degree Programs

Ashford University also offers a robust array of master’s degree programs, allowing students to further develop their expertise in their chosen fields. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is one of the most popular graduate programs, designed for individuals seeking to advance their careers in business leadership. The MBA program is comprehensive, covering areas such as finance, marketing, and organizational management. It prepares students for high-level managerial positions and equips them with the tools to navigate the complexities of the business world.

Another highly regarded program is the Master of Arts in Education, which is ideal for educators looking to advance their careers in teaching or educational leadership. Ashford offers various concentrations within the Education program, including Instructional Leadership, Special Education, and Curriculum and Instruction. Students in these programs gain in-depth knowledge of teaching strategies, curriculum design, and educational theory, preparing them to lead in the classroom or in administrative roles.

The Master of Health Care Administration program at Ashford University provides students with the leadership skills needed to manage healthcare organizations effectively. This program covers topics such as healthcare policy, financial management, and ethics, preparing graduates to navigate the complexities of the healthcare industry. Similarly, the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program is designed for individuals interested in government or nonprofit management. Students in this program learn about public policy, governance, and program management, equipping them with the skills necessary to work in various public service roles.

For those with an interest in technology, Ashford University offers the Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology, which helps educators integrate digital tools into their teaching methods. Additionally, the Master of Arts in Organizational Management program prepares students for leadership roles in both public and private sectors, offering insights into organizational behavior, strategic management, and change management.

Rankings and Recognition

Ashford University has earned notable recognition for its online programs and its commitment to serving a diverse student population. In 2010, the university was named to G.I. Jobs Magazine’s List of Military Friendly Schools, reflecting its efforts to support military personnel and veterans in their educational pursuits. Additionally, Ashford University was ranked 39th among the top online colleges and universities by the Online Education Database (OEDb) in 2009, highlighting the university’s reputation for offering quality online education. It was also recognized by Military Times Edge Magazine as one of the Top 50 Military Friendly Schools.

Accreditation

Ashford University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, ensuring that its academic programs meet the high standards required for regional accreditation. This accreditation assures students that the education they receive at Ashford University is recognized and respected by employers and other institutions of higher learning.

Conclusion

Ashford University has made significant strides in expanding access to higher education through its online programs, providing students with the opportunity to earn degrees in a variety of fields without the constraints of traditional classroom settings. Whether students are pursuing associate’s degrees in business, bachelor’s degrees in psychology or health care administration, or master’s degrees in business administration or education, Ashford University offers flexible and accessible options for learners at every stage of their academic journey. The university’s commitment to serving military personnel, adult learners, and working professionals further enhances its appeal as an institution that provides high-quality education for all types of students. Through its strong academic programs, solid accreditation, and flexible learning format, Ashford University continues to be a leading provider of online higher education.