Ashford University
The Vibe Check
Ashford University offers a distinctly non-traditional, urban campus experience primarily tailored for working adults and online learners. The physical campus in San Diego is modest, fostering a practical, career-focused atmosphere rather than a classic college-town spirit. It feels like a commuter school where students are intensely focused on balancing education with full-time life responsibilities.
Academics & Majors
Ashford's academic strengths lie in flexible, career-oriented programs, particularly in Business, Education, and Health Professions. The curriculum is designed for accessibility, often delivered online, with a focus on practical application rather than theoretical research. Teaching quality varies, but the structure supports students who need to juggle school with work and family.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in San Diego
Located in San Diego, students have access to a vibrant coastal city with beaches, diverse dining, and cultural attractions. While the campus life is not centered on traditional Greek life or football, students can explore Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, and outdoor activities. The city offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, though the student experience is more integrated with city life than campus-centric.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($35,404):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The main campus is located in an urban setting, so standard city safety precautions are advised. While the campus itself has security measures, students should be aware of their surroundings in the surrounding San Diego area.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Flexible online and hybrid programs designed for working adults
- ✓ Open enrollment policy makes college accessible to non-traditional students
- ✓ Flat tuition rate for all students regardless of residency
- ✓ Strong focus on career-relevant majors like Business and Health Professions
Cons
- ✗ Very low graduation (9.3%) and retention (30.6%) rates
- ✗ 10-year median earnings ($35,404) are below the national average for bachelor's degree holders
- ✗ Primarily online focus may lack a traditional campus community feel
- ✗ Some programs are not accredited by specialized agencies, which can affect professional licensure
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Ashford University is known for its flexible online degree programs tailored to non-traditional, adult learners and working professionals. It offers a wide range of associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees in fields like Business, Education, and Health Professions. The university is recognized for its open-enrollment policy and commitment to providing accessible education to students balancing school with work and family commitments.
No, Ashford University has an open-enrollment policy, making it generally easy to gain admission. The university accepts a high percentage of applicants who have a high school diploma or equivalent. While specific acceptance rate statistics are not publicly available, the focus is on accessibility rather than selectivity, with an emphasis on providing opportunities for non-traditional students.
Campus life at Ashford University is non-traditional and primarily centered around its online learning platform, with a modest physical campus in San Diego. The student body consists largely of working adults, so there is less emphasis on typical college activities like Greek life or major sports events. Students often engage in virtual discussions and collaborative projects rather than on-campus social events.
The value of an Ashford degree is a complex consideration. With an average net price of $25,321 and low median earnings of $35,404 ten years post-graduation, the return on investment may be lower than at many traditional universities. However, for working adults who need a flexible, accessible path to a degree to advance in their current careers, the convenience may justify the cost. Prospective students should weigh the low graduation and retention rates as potential risks.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 41,397
- In-State Tuition $13,160
- Zip Code 92123
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of over $25,000, the degree represents a significant investment, especially considering the relatively low median earnings of $35,404 ten years after enrollment. The school offers a flat tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students, which can be beneficial for non-residents. Prospective students should carefully weigh the cost against the potential ROI, particularly given the low retention and graduation rates.
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