Lori Meadows
Student reviews of Ashford University are mixed. While some students have praised the university for its flexibility and affordability, others have criticized it for being a for-profit business that does not adequately prepare students for their careers. Some students have also expressed concerns about the school's accreditation and transfer credit policies. In 2012, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) denied initial accreditation to the university due to several shortcomings. However, some students have defended the school, citing positive experiences with the curriculum, scholarships, and online learning format. The University of Arizona Global Campus, formerly known as Ashford University, has received somewhat more positive reviews, with 67% of students recommending it to others.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | Students have mixed opinions about the accreditation of the university. While some claim that the university is accredited, others state that it lost its basic accreditation and had to revamp to get it back. |
| Affordability | Some students claim that the university is affordable, while others argue that the cost has skyrocketed. |
| Curriculum | Some students appreciate the curriculum, finding it fair and comprehensive. |
| Transferability of Credits | Students have reported difficulties in transferring credits to other institutions. |
| Teaching Quality | Opinions vary, with some students praising the quality of education and others expressing concerns about inexperienced advisors and harsh grading practices. |
| Student Support | There are mixed reviews, with some students reporting positive experiences with supportive staff, while others claim that the university does not care about its students. |
| Online Learning Platform | The university's online platform is praised for its convenience and flexibility, allowing students to log in at any time. |
| Business Practices | The university has faced criticism for its aggressive sales tactics, issues with student loans, and allegations of coercion and fraud. |
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What You'll Learn
Accreditation and transferability of credits
The accreditation status of Ashford University has been a matter of concern for students. While some students have stated that the university is accredited, others have claimed that it lost its basic accreditation and had to revamp its processes to regain it. In 2012, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) denied initial accreditation to Ashford University due to concerns about low numbers of full-time faculty, high student dropout rates, and questions about academic rigor. However, some students have defended their degrees from the university, stating that they received a quality education and that their degrees are recognised.
The transferability of credits from Ashford University to other institutions has also been a point of discussion. Some students have reported that their credits transferred without issue, while others have claimed that the university rarely accepts credits from other schools, even though it claims to do so. It is important to note that transfer policies can vary depending on the receiving institution, and students considering transferring should carefully research the policies of their intended transfer schools.
Ashford University has been criticised for its aggressive recruitment tactics and for providing students with misleading information about credit transfers. The university has disclosures on its website cautioning that credits earned at the university may not transfer to other institutions. However, some students have felt that they were lied to about the transferability of their credits and have expressed frustration over losing progress when changing schools.
The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC), formerly known as Ashford University, has also received criticism for its handling of student withdrawals and transfers. Some students have reported difficulties in withdrawing from the university, while others have expressed concerns about losing credits and experiencing increased costs due to additional required classes.
Overall, while some students have had positive experiences with the accreditation and transferability of credits at Ashford University, others have encountered challenges and felt misled by the university's practices. It is important for prospective students to thoroughly research the accreditation status and transfer policies of any institution they are considering attending to make informed decisions about their education.
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Student support and financial aid
Student support at Ashford University is comprehensive and easily accessible. The university offers a range of services to ensure that students can succeed academically and get the help they need. One of the key offerings is the CHAMPS peer mentorship programme, where new students can sign up for weekly sessions with high-achieving peers. These mentors can offer valuable insights and strategies for time management and online learning.
The Writing Centre is another resource available to students, providing support for research papers and helping students find sources. The Centre's librarians are on hand to help students find, evaluate, and use information effectively. The library itself also provides access to a wide range of scholarly resources, including journals, ebooks, videos, and business research tools. Regular webinars are also hosted to provide live instruction and guidance.
Instructors at the university are experts in their fields, and students are encouraged to introduce themselves to their instructors at the start of each course. Many alumni maintain close contact with their instructors even after graduation. The Distance Learning Librarian is another key support figure, helping students navigate the university's databases and providing 24/7 assistance with academic research.
Ashford University also recognises the importance of student wellbeing and offers a range of pastoral support services. While specific details of financial aid offerings are not readily available, the university's website mentions that students can find out if they are eligible to receive financial support or bursaries.
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Quality of teaching and curriculum
The quality of teaching and curriculum at Ashford University is a point of contention among students. While some students have praised the university for its flexibility and comprehensive curriculum, others have criticised it for its lack of accreditation and poor transferability of credits.
Some students have expressed satisfaction with the curriculum, finding it tailored to their needs and comprehensive. They also appreciate the flexibility of the online program, allowing them to work at their own pace and fit their studies around their lifestyle. One student specifically mentions that the classes for their degree in management were "a little bit more condensed", which suited their needs.
On the other hand, several students have raised concerns about the quality of teaching and the lack of proper accreditation. One student mentions that none of the education degrees are N.C.A.T.E accredited or recognised by the Department of Education, which could impact graduates' employability in the education sector.
There are also concerns about the transferability of credits. While some students have had their credits transferred successfully, others have faced difficulties transferring credits to and from Ashford University. The university itself acknowledges this issue on its website, stating that "Credits earned at Ashford University may not transfer to another educational institution."
Additionally, there are mixed reviews about the quality of teaching. While some students have praised the university for exceeding their expectations, others have criticised the high student-to-faculty ratio and the lack of full-time faculty members. There are also concerns about the high-pressure sales tactics used to enrol students, with some students feeling they were misled about the transferability of credits and the quality of the education provided.
It is worth noting that since 2022, Ashford University has been known as the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC). While the name has changed, some students feel that the operations remain the same, and there are still mixed reviews about the quality of teaching and curriculum under the new name.
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University ethics and student enrolment
Student reviews of Ashford University reveal a mixed bag of experiences. Some students have praised the university, citing positive factors such as affordability, flexibility, and the opportunity to pursue their desired degree programmes. One student even mentions that they will pursue a master's degree at the university. This suggests a level of satisfaction with the quality of education and the ability to meet individual needs.
However, a significant number of reviews highlight concerning ethical issues regarding student enrolment. Several students have accused the university of employing high-pressure sales tactics and providing misleading information to prospective students. There are allegations of the university prioritising profits over student success, including concerns about the transferability of credits to other institutions. This is a critical consideration, as students may find themselves unable to switch institutions without losing credits, potentially delaying their graduation or increasing their overall educational costs.
The issue of accreditation is also a significant concern. While some students have confirmed that their credits transferred without issues, others have disputed the university's accreditation status. In 2012, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) denied initial accreditation to Ashford University due to concerns about low numbers of full-time faculty, high student dropout rates, and questions about academic rigour. This incident underscores the importance of universities maintaining high academic standards and providing accurate information to prospective students.
The University of Arizona Global Campus, as the successor to Ashford University, has also received mixed reviews. While some students appreciate the curriculum and the support they received during challenging times, others continue to express concerns about the quality of education and the competence of professors. There are also complaints about the rising costs, with some students feeling that they are not getting value for money.
In conclusion, the case of Ashford University and its transition to the University of Arizona Global Campus underscores the importance of ethical practices in student enrolment. Universities have a responsibility to provide transparent and accurate information about their programmes, faculty, and accreditation status. Students should be empowered to make informed decisions about their education, and institutions must prioritise academic excellence and student success over financial gains.
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Student experience and satisfaction
Student experiences at Ashford University vary. Some students have praised the university for its flexibility, affordability, and comprehensive curriculum. One student, who has been enrolled at the university since 2008, expressed satisfaction with the quality of education and the convenience of the online program. They highlighted the importance of writing skills and proofreading in the online learning environment. Another student pursuing a BA in International Business shared their positive experience, intending to pursue an MA at the university.
On the other hand, several students have criticized the university for its aggressive marketing tactics, lack of transparency, and issues with credit transfers. Some students feel that the university is more focused on profits than student success, alleging that they were lied to and misled during the enrolment process. There are also concerns about the quality of education, with some students questioning the academic rigor and faculty qualifications.
A notable number of student reviews mention issues with credit transfers. While some students have successfully transferred their credits to other institutions, others have faced challenges and expressed frustration with Ashford University's policies. It is important to note that credit transferability is a complex issue that depends on the receiving institution's policies and the accreditation status of the transferring institution.
The university has faced investigations and lawsuits regarding its enrolment practices, student loan management, and accreditation status. In 2014, its parent company, Bridgepoint Education, settled a lawsuit with the State of Iowa for $7.25 million, agreeing to refrain from using coercive tactics to enrol students. Additionally, there are concerns about the university's accreditation, with some students questioning the value of their degrees.
Despite the negative reviews, some students have defended their positive experiences at Ashford University. One student shared their satisfaction with the curriculum and affordability, emphasizing the importance of commitment and time management in their success. Another student praised the scholarships offered by the university and the flexibility of the online platform.
Overall, student experiences at Ashford University are mixed. While some students appreciate the flexibility and accessibility of the online programs, others have faced challenges with credit transfers, questioned the quality of education, and criticized the university's business practices. It is essential for prospective students to conduct thorough research and consider their specific needs and goals when considering enrolment at Ashford University.
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Frequently asked questions
Reviews are mixed. Some students have said that they have had a positive educational experience at Ashford University, while others have criticised the university for issues such as high student dropout rates, low academic rigor, and questions about the legitimacy of its accreditation.
Some students have reported issues with transferring to or from Ashford University, as the university does not always accept transfer credits from other institutions, and other institutions may not accept credits earned at Ashford University.
Some students have criticised the cost of attending Ashford University, particularly in relation to the quality of education provided. There have also been allegations that the university engages in coercive or deceptive tactics to enrol students and retain their financial aid.
Some students have praised the flexibility of online programs at Ashford University, noting that they are able to do homework when it is convenient for them. However, others have found that the programs require more time investment than they initially expected.
Reviews are mixed. Some students have praised the university for its support during difficult times, while others have criticised the university for a lack of support when trying to withdraw from a program.
