SAN DIEGO, Dec. 21, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (NYSE: BPI) is a provider of postsecondary education services focused on providing higher access to higher education. Ashford University, a Bridgepoint academic institution, has entered into articulation agreements with two San Diego-based community colleges, enabling the students of these Southern California schools to apply 90 of their previously earned college credits to a four-year Ashford University degree.

Joining Ashford in this agreement are Mira Costa College and San Diego City College. San Diego City was founded in 1914 and has approximately 18,000 students registered in 1,500 classes. Mira Costa College was created in 1932, and its three campuses serve about 18,500 full- and part-time students. The two community schools are accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

"We are pleased to enter into articulation agreements with Mira Costa College and San Diego City College," said Mark K. Young, director of academic partnerships for Ashford University. "The two schools collectively represent a student body of 36,500. Making Ashford University's four-year programs available to those students will put full degrees within reach for many."

Ashford University's relationship with these community colleges will allow students to transfer up to 90 credits to Ashford's online or campus-based degrees, expanding two-year students' educational opportunities by utilizing Ashford's broad catalog of undergraduate degrees. It will be a win-win for students and educators alike.

This articulation agreement formally recognizes that Ashford University, Mira Costa College and San Diego City College are active educational collaborators. These institutions are committed to improving educational opportunities and services for students transferring between institutions.

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.

About Mira Costa College

Mira Costa College is a public, accredited California community college serving coastal North San Diego County. For more information, visit www.miracosta.edu or call (888) 201-8480.

About San Diego City College

Founded in 1914, San Diego City College serves as the educational cornerstone of downtown San Diego. With more than 18,000 students, City College offers 240 Associate Degrees and Certificates and 1,500 day, evening and weekend classes, including programs in business, computer technology, and cosmetology. Home to KSDS Jazz 88.3 and the award-winning Knights, City College is part of the San Diego Community College District, comprised of City College, Mesa College, Miramar College, and Continuing Education. www.sdcity.edu.