Bridgepoint Education's Ashford University Offers New Associate of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education

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 Early Childhood Education. The new degree program is a continuation of Ashford University's efforts to offer greater educational opportunities to students who are looking to learn more about educating and working with young children.  

Workers who are currently employed in the area of childcare or early childhood education often need additional college credit to advance in their careers. In addition, an associate degree may be required for many entry level positions in the early childhood education field. The Ashford Associate of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education will benefit anyone who is interested in working with young children. Students who earn an associate degree in Early Childhood Education may pursue careers such as preschool teachers, teacher's aides, working in a childcare setting, or running their own childcare center.

"The mission of the College of Education at Ashford University is to prepare teachers with professional expertise and integrity in service to a diverse community," said Dr. Joen Rottler, dean of the Ashford University College of Education. "The opportunity to expand our program and support students who work with our youngest children to increase their knowledge and expertise is wonderful."

Ashford University's associate degree in Early Childhood Education is currently available online.  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.