SAN DIEGO, Nov. 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Ashford University has been awarded the Quality Matters 2011 Making a Difference for Students Award. The University, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, was recognized for its coordinated, multi-year Quality Matters initiative demonstrating a large-scale, positive impact on the quality of online courses.

"It's a great honor for Ashford University to receive this award," said Dr. Elizabeth Tice, president of Ashford University. "It's a testament to our continued commitment to quality in education in our online degree programs."

The Quality Matters Program promotes and improves the quality of online education to support student learning. The Making a Difference for Students Award recognizes individuals and groups who exemplify Quality Matters' focus on student learning through the implementation of Quality Matters standards and the best practices that embody those standards and lead to student success. Award nominees must provide evidence of success – statistical or anecdotal – including a clear demonstration of positive outcomes for students.

The award was presented to Ashford University November 9 at the Third Annual Quality Matters Conference in Baltimore, Md.

About Ashford University

Founded in 1918, Ashford University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (www.ncahlc.org). The university offers graduate and undergraduate degree programs online and at its Clinton, Iowa campus. The university is known for its high quality yet highly affordable online and on-campus programs. For more information, visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, associate vice president of public relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513. 

Contact: Shari Rodriguez, Associate Vice President of Public Relations
858.513.9240 x2513 - shari.rodriguez@ashford.edu

SOURCE Ashford University