The Ashford University College of Education has received notice of the continuing approval of its campus teacher preparation program. “On July 31, 2012, the Iowa State Board of Education approved Ashford University’s Teacher Preparation Program for an additional seven-year cycle,” said Dr. Joen Rottler Larson, dean of the college of education. “This approval means that students successfully completing the Clinton campus teacher preparation program continue to be eligible for a teaching license in Iowa.”

Larson noted that teacher preparation was the primary purpose of Mount St. Clare College (MSC) when it was charted by the State of Iowa in 1918 as an institution of higher education. “During the period of 1932 and 1954, 62% of the teachers in Clinton County were graduates of Mount St. Clare,” she said. “The State of Iowa began formal approval of teacher preparation for licensure about the same time that the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools approved Mount St. Clare to award baccalaureate degrees in 1979.” The institution’s formal teacher licensure approval status by the State of Iowa has been maintained continuously since that time.

The Clinton campus College of Education currently has two programs nationally recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and is a candidate for NCATE accreditation.

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. Ashford University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association (www.ncahlc.org). 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 Rodriguez, associate vice president of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.