Bridgepoint Education's Ashford University Offers New Associate of Arts Degree in Military Studies

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 an Associate of Arts degree in Military Studies. The new degree was designed to meet the educational needs of both military and civilian students.

Approximately 18 percent of Ashford's students are active duty military. For those students, a college education is a key factor for advancement in the military. The AA in Military Studies is ideal for military students who only require an associate degree for promotion. Due to its strong base in liberal arts, the AA in Military Studies also serves as an excellent springboard to BA programs and further educational opportunities.

"This program builds on the strength of general education to provide an exciting and challenging associate degree that is designed to meet the needs of those serving our country at home and overseas," said Dr. Curt Lowe, dean of Ashford's College of Liberal Arts.

For civilian students, the AA in Military Studies can lead to several interesting career opportunities. Many law enforcement and correctional positions require associate degrees. Graduates will also be prepared for positions in areas such as veteran affairs, office and administrative support, security, banking, business ownership and civilian military jobs.

"Built on a liberal arts foundation, this interdisciplinary program advances peace maintenance as a core of military theory," said Mary Alexander, program director for Ashford's College of Liberal Arts. "Students gain understanding of the history, culture and current world political conditions and how these shape military responses and strategy."

Ashford University's Associate of Arts in Military Studies is currently available online only. This degree does not lead to licensure or certification of any kind.

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, associate vice president of Public Relations at 858.668.2580.

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, associate vice president of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.