Ashford University, an academic institution owned by Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (NYSE: BPI), is among the top 100 universities in the country for graduating minority students with master’s degrees, according to Diverse: Issues in Higher Education.

“We are proud to rank on the top 100 list for graduating underrepresented students,” said Dr. Elizabeth Tice, president of Ashford University. “Ashford University provides a dynamic, immersive and stimulating learning experience, and diversity is imperative to our continued innovation in defining the modern college experience.”

Among the rankings for Ashford University: #1 for graduating African American students with master’s degrees in social sciences; #1 for graduating Native American students with master’s degrees in social sciences; #1 overall for graduating minority students with master’s degrees in social sciences; #11 overall in graduating African American students with master’s degrees in all disciplines combined; #21 for graduating Native American students with master’s degrees in all disciplines combined; and #22 overall for graduating minority students with master’s degrees in all disciplines combined.

View the complete list of Top 100 Producers of Minority Degrees 2011.

About Bridgepoint Education
Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (NYSE:BPI) improves the way individuals learn. By harnessing creativity, knowledge and proprietary technologies, such as Constellation, Thuze and Waypoint Outcomes, Bridgepoint Education has re-engineered the modern student experience with innovative solutions that advance learning. Its accredited institutions – Ashford University and University of the Rockies – embody the contemporary college experience. Ashford University offers associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs while University of the Rockies offers master’s and doctoral degree programs. Both provide progressive online platforms, as well as traditional campuses located in Clinton, Iowa (Ashford University), and Colorado Springs, Colorado (University of the Rockies). 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

Ashford University is defining the modern college experience by combining the heritage of a traditional campus with the flexibility and effectiveness of online learning. The University provides a vibrant learning community where high-quality programs and leading-edge technology create a dynamic, immersive and stimulating learning experience. Ashford University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association (www.ncahlc.org). The University offers practical and progressive associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs online, as well as bachelor’s degree programs at its Clinton, Iowa, campus. Ashford University – where heritage meets innovation. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, associate vice president of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.