CLINTON, Iowa, March 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Ashford University (AU) has announced the introduction of a public administration major to its portfolio of Bachelor of Arts degree programs.

Enrollment for this new bachelor's degree program, offered through the AU College of Business and Professional Studies, began March 20, 2009. Last month, AU introduced a new minor and specialization in public administration.

"Ashford University's public administration degree program combines the optimum blend of theory and professional practice for a comprehensive education in public service, policy formation, problem solving, and leadership - in a new age of accountability," said Dr. Michael Reilly, program director for AU's College of Business and Professional Studies.

"Very few online universities offer full undergraduate degree programs for the public administration discipline," Dr. Reilly added. "Our professors are experts in the field of public administration, and many hold leadership positions in local, state and national government. Introducing this new program is a further example of our commitment to continue to provide high quality, easily accessible and applicable degree programs for our students."

Graduates of this program will be academically prepared for work in the government, non-profit and public service sectors, in such careers as: city/county manager, management analyst, safety officer, customs inspector, criminal investigator, patent examiner, urban planner, social worker or industrial relations specialist.

While the new bachelor's degree program is currently open to online students only, AU is exploring the possibility of extending it to on campus students as well. To learn more or to apply, please visit www.ashford.edu.

About Ashford University

Founded in 1918, Ashford University is a coeducational institution regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, with programs in education, business, accounting, criminal and social justice, computer animation and graphic design, and other areas. The University offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as a range of student activities and athletics, at its Clinton campus. Online degree programs are available in education, organizational management, business administration, and psychology. The University is known for its high quality yet highly affordable on-campus and online programs, with tuition fees among the lowest in the U.S. compared to other private institutions. Its tagline is: "Higher Education Made Affordable"(SM). For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or contact Shari Rodriguez, director of Public Relations, at 858.513-9240 x2513.

    Contact: Shari Rodriguez, Director of Public Relations
    858.513.9240 x2513 - shari.rodriguez@bridgepointeducation.com

SOURCE: Ashford University

Web site: http://www.ashford.edu/