Ashford University was one of 15 colleges and universities selected to join the American Council on Education’s Alternative Credit Consortium. Founded in December 2014, the Alternative Credit Consortium is an initiative to create a more flexible pathway to a college degree for millions of non-traditional students.

Participating colleges and universities in the consortium agree to accept all or most of the transfer credits sought by students who successfully complete courses that are part of a select pool of about 100 low-cost or no-cost lower division general education online courses. The project launched with 25 colleges and universities, and has now grown to 40 institutions. Selected institutions must demonstrate a strong commitment to access and attainment, particularly in the area of serving non-traditional students.

“Ashford University has always been committed to the idea of bringing the transformative power of education to students who have been underserved by traditional institutions,” said Ashford president and CEO Dr. Richard Pattenaude. “Our participation in the Alternative Credit Consortium will allow even more students to enjoy the benefits of higher education.”

In addition to Ashford University, the other institutions selected to join the Alternative Credit Consortium are Bellevue University, Brandman University, Colorado State University-Global Campus, Dallas Colleges Online/Dallas County Community College District, Davenport University, Franklin Pierce University, Miami Dade College, Monroe Community College, Post University, Sinclair Community College, Stark State College, University of New England, Walden University, and Youngstown State University.

“We appreciate the commitment on the part of these institutions, and the ongoing commitment of our original consortium members to this work, which will help lead to the greater acceptance of alternative forms of credit in a way that ensures quality and encourages more people to complete their postsecondary education,” said Deborah Seymour, American Council on Education assistant vice president for education attainment and innovation.

The American Council on Education will be collecting anonymized data from participating institutions regarding the amount of credit each institution accepts through this project as well as progress and success rates of students who transfer in consortium-approved courses.

The Alternative Credit Consortium was made possible by a $1.89 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

About Ashford University

Where heritage meets innovation – that’s Ashford University. At Ashford, students discover relevant degree programs, innovative technology, and cherished tradition. Ashford offers associates, bachelor’s, and master’s online degree programs, while the Clinton, Iowa campus offers bachelor’s programs. Whether on campus or online, Ashford students enjoy the same supportive community. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu, www.facebook.com/ashforduniversity, www.twitter.com/AshfordU, or call Shari Winet, Vice President of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x11601.