Ashford University has been granted Initial Accreditation for five years by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).  The WASC Commission Action Letter stated "The Commission found that the University has responded to Commission concerns and judges that it is now in substantial compliance with Commission standards."

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WASC's accreditation review process, which included rigorous reporting and multiple site visits by representatives of the accrediting body, proved to be a beneficial endeavor that elevated Ashford University as an educator and institution.

The WASC visiting team noted within their final report that "the team found an institution that has been fundamentally transformed and whose culture has been changed in significant ways, including a shift from a market driven approach to an institution committed to student retention and success, a transformation that is enthusiastically supported by the Board of Trustees, the new President, administration, faculty and staff."

"In responding to WASC and throughout this review process, the University engaged the concerns raised, made tough decisions, worked hard, and allocated resources to sustain its trajectory of quality, accountability, and student success in the years ahead," said Dr. Richard Pattenaude, president of Ashford University. "We appreciate WASC's recognition of our efforts and we are committed to continual improvement and to the strengthening of Ashford."

A copy of the visiting team report and WASC action letter from the review of Ashford University will be available on the WASC website at www.wascsenior.org. WASC's main office is located at 985 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 100, Alameda, CA 94501 (telephone 510-748-9001).

About Ashford University
Ashford University 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. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Winet Rodriguez, vice president of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.