SAN DIEGO, Nov. 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Ashford University has received notification from the United States Department of Education (DOE) that the University has been approved for accreditation with the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

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"We are pleased that the Department of Education has approved Ashford University's transition to WASC," said Dr. Richard Pattenaude, president of Ashford University. "Our University looks forward to continuing to guide our students toward academic success."

Ashford received a letter from the DOE on November 8, 2013, formally recognizing WASC as the primary accrediting agency for the University. Ashford also received a letter from the Federal Student Aid School Eligibility Channel School Participation Team acknowledging that Ashford's Application for Approval to Participate in Federal Student Financial Aid Programs had been provisionally approved, permitting the University to continue to participate in federal financial aid programs.

On July 10, 2013, Ashford University was granted initial accreditation for five years by WASC. 

As a result of the DOE approval, Ashford will resign its accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission.

About Ashford University
Achievement belongs to all of us at Ashford University. By offering a traditional college campus as well as online degree programs, Ashford meets the diverse needs of individuals pursuing integrity in their lives and in their communities. Students may earn an associates, bachelor's, or master's degree online, while campus students in Clinton, Iowa may earn a bachelor's degree. Whether on campus or online, Ashford students enjoy the same supportive community. For more information, please visit ashford.edu or call Shari Winet, Vice President of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.

Contact: Shari Winet, Vice President of Public Relations
858.513.9240 x2513 · shari.winet@ashford.edu

SOURCE Ashford University