Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (NYSE: BPI), a provider of post-secondary education services focused on providing higher access to higher education, announced today that Ashford University has introduced a new Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development. Previously, Ashford offered only a minor in Child Development, but significant student interest in this focus area prompted the creation of a full bachelor's degree program.

Investigating the factors that impact the development of children has become a rapidly expanding field in recent years. Ashford's Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development was designed to provide students with insight into the process of development that children undergo. Graduates from this program may enter many fields working with children, including social work, early childhood education, childcare, special education or further studies at a graduate level.

"The College of Education at Ashford University is pleased to expand our program offerings to include programs that will prepare our students to serve the needs of young children and their families outside of the classroom setting," said Dr. Joen Rottler, dean of the Ashford University College of Education. "This BA program will support the preparation of professionals in fields such as social work, counseling and various agencies focused on positive youth development. It is a timely expansion opportunity for our college."

Ashford University's bachelor's degree in Child Development is currently available online only. It does not include any additional professional licensures or certifications.

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, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, director of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.

About Bridgepoint Education

Bridgepoint Education's postsecondary education services focus on offering associate's, bachelor's, master's and doctoral programs in such disciplines as business, education, psychology, social sciences and health sciences.  Bridgepoint Education's regionally accredited academic institutions – Ashford University and University of the Rockies – deliver their programs online as well as at traditional campuses located in Clinton, Iowa, and Colorado Springs, Colorado.  For more information about Bridgepoint Education, visit www.bridgepointeducation.com or call Shari Rodriguez, director of Public Relations at 858.668.2580.