Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (NYSE: BPI), a provider of postsecondary education services focused on providing higher access to higher education, announced today that Ashford University was recognized in the 2011 List of Military Friendly Schools by G.I. Jobs magazine. The annual list honors the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools doing the most to embrace America’s veterans as students.

The G.I. Jobs list of Military Friendly Schools was compiled by polling more than 7,000 schools in the nation, and with the assistance of an Academic Advisory Board. Criteria for selection included efforts to recruit and retain military and veteran students, results in recruiting military and veteran students, as well as academic accreditations.

“This list is especially important now because the recently enacted post 9-11 GI Bill has given veterans the financial means to go to school,” said Rich McCormack, publisher of G.I. Jobs. “Veterans need a trusted friend to help them decide where to get educated. The Military Friendly Schools list is that friend,” he added.

“Ashford University prides itself on its commitment to those serving in the armed forces.  The pursuit of higher education has always been challenging for these courageous men and women due to the demands of military service,” said Doug Barling, director of Military Relations for Ashford University.  “Ashford University recognizes their contribution and offers an education rich in tradition, partnered with affordable, flexible and convenient online programs.”

Ashford University provides education benefits to all eligible service members and their spouses.  The university's military grant also waives application and technology fees and pays for all books and applicable shipping costs for qualified military students.  In addition, Ashford University provides a specialized team of advisors who assist students with enrollment, academic and financial needs.

For additional information about Ashford University, visit www.Military.Ashford.edu or call 800.877.1192. 

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.