Ashford University, an academic institution owned by Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (NYSE: BPI), has signed the Department of Defense (DOD) Voluntary Education Partnership Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), allowing service members attending the university to continue receiving military tuition assistance. 

“It was essential that Ashford University sign the DOD MOU,” said Doug Barling, senior director of military relations for Ashford University. “Signing the MOU will allow us to continue our commitment and dedication towards educating service members.” 

The DOD is requiring all schools participating in its Military Tuition Assistance program to sign the MOU by January 1, 2012. Students using Military Tuition Assistance funds will not be authorized to attend non-participating institutions after that date.

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, visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, associate vice president of public relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.