University Overview
Ashford University (AU) is a private academic institution, regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. AU provides affordable, specialized, personal, and innovative, and rewarding education opportunities through a variety of on-campus and online Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's degree programs. Headquartered in San Diego, Calif., with a campus in Clinton, Iowa, AU boasts a diverse student culture that is rich in history, innovation, and academic excellence.

History
AU was founded in 1918 by the Sisters of St. Francis in Clinton, Iowa. Mount St. Clare College, as it was first named, was intended to serve the higher education needs of residents in Clinton and the surrounding areas. First accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools in 1950, AU has since maintained that accreditation and has continued to offer a multitude of degree programs to its students. In 2005, Bridgepoint Education, Inc., a higher education organization. acquired the institution (then named The Franciscan University) and changed its name to Ashford University.

Mission Statement
The mission of Ashford University is to provide accessible, affordable, innovative, high-quality learning opportunities and degree programs that meet the diverse needs of individuals pursuing integrity in their lives, professions and communities.

Quick Facts

• AU is part of the Bridgepoint Education university system which, as of June 30, 2010, has a total student enrollment of 67,744 students in its institutions
• 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

Association of Independent Institutions
Ashford University competes as a proud member of the Association of Independent Institutions (A.I.I.), comprised of institutions from across the United States and Canada and boasts 21 championship sports including 17 of the 19 sports AU currently sponsors.  For more information regarding the A.I.I., visit www.aiisports.com.

Ashford Athletics Hall of Fame

Ashford NAIA All-Americans

Ashford Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athletes