Ashford University Reviews
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Not whining here 
AA Business
Reviewer: sdmgdchick1904
(Degree In Progress) on November 15, 2009
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Opposed to many reviews here, I did not feel pressured into enrollment with Ashford. I am content in my decision to get an education with Ashford, and my enrollment advisor is a very laid back, sweet woman that knows what she is talking about with anything pertaining to the enrollment process or Ashford in general. I am in my fourth course and I still keep in contact with her every once and a while, even though I have a different acedemic advisor. My first financial advisor was a dissapointment and it aggravated me just trying to get ahold of him, let alone the ONE conversation I had with him, which proved to be a complete waste of time because of his incompitence. I now have a different financial advisor who has answered any and all of my questions within 24 hours or less. I would advise anyone having problems with one of thier advisors to simply ask to speak with a different advisor, not a supervisor, just a different advisor in that department, instead of complaining about it on a review board. I am maintaing a 4.0 GPA, though I am still early in my education, and I have worked hard everyday since my second course (the first course was really easy, mainly there just to familiarize people with the online enviornment). I manage a large hotel and am also a single mother, and Ashford has worked into my schedule wonderfully. I find all of my coursework challenging and when I am doing my school work I always learn something new. My instructors, with the exeption of one, have been absolutly great. I know for a fact that a degree with Ashford IS accredited, because I have done extensive research to make sure it is; calling various HR departments, asking supervisors of accounting companies and businesses, etc. All over San Diego California, New Mexico, and Iowa(because those are the places I travel to for work). I have not had one company tell me that an Ashford degree is not acceptable. People who say that Ashford graduates are laughed at are rediculious, I don't think we will see anyone laughing when an Ashford graduate is running the business your working for.
MBA 
MBA
Reviewer: jblairtex
(Degree In Progress) on November 13, 2009
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I received my B.S. Degree from a different school. Ashford has been great for the last 8 month towards getting my M.B.A. Their online format, support, and Teachers are great.
Currently going
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: captain_blackheart
(Degree In Progress) on November 10, 2009
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I'm a current student of Ashford online, and after reading some of these reviews I am wondering if we are attending the same school. The school IS accredited, (I did my research in that before signing up). Secondly, anyone who says the courses are "for idiots", I'm not sure what your definition of "an idiot" is. My current course is five weeks long and in order to finish we are having to read 3-5 chapters from our book per week, plus another 1-2 from a secondary book. The discussion board is good, becuase it subsitutes for "Classroom participation", and shows that you've read the material. My instructor has outlined the fact that you are graded on your responses and knowledge of material, as well as writing and spelling skills and structure. My final paper for this course is due in three weeks, and it's in collegiate APA style format. Being middle aged, and in todays economy, I don't have a rich mommy or daddy to pay for me to spend my days driving back and forth to a brick and mortar university, and where I live there are NONE of the cheaper "community colleges" for me to attend. I've been going to colleges across the country on and off for 20 years due to my work situation, and because of this, Ashford gives me the best choice for my time and money, and in this economy. It's not perfect. The two biggest issues that I have with them so far is that the bookstore, (which is NOT part of Ashford, but sells the books), screwed up my delivery, and their online tech support guy was "Lazy" in attempting to help fix an application problem with their software. But that has NOTHING to do with the courses itself. Like all adults, you need a level of maturity, and understanding of what you are getting into when you sign up for this. Many of the same "whines" I've read here, I heard from guys who joined the miitary and then decided that "they didn't like it"....
Great
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on November 9, 2009
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This is my first year at Ashford University and I am very satisfied. It was easy to get started, I love my classes, they are challenging but not overwhelming. I am learning a lot, especially in terms of writing papers. My enollement advisor and academic advisor is great. My only complaint would be that there was a mess up with my student loan amount. I ended up being shorted and everytime I called Sallie Mae or Ashford, I recieved a different story. My financial advisor was not quick to respond. However, it did just finally get resolved. I am sure situations like this happen at all universities. I think sometimes it is harder if you cant go visit the financial aid office in person to settle an issue. Anyway, I like Ashford. I am happy i am attending. It is great for my schedule too. I work full time and have two kids. It would be impossible for me to have to show up to school at a particular time.
Very Pleased
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: uctechrichard
(Degree In Progress) on November 7, 2009
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I am finishing my BA in Psychology on the 14th of next month. This is the only online course I have taken, so I have nothing to compare it with. I had approached several colleges which offered online formats. Ashford was the only one that actually responded by phone. This told me something. My only concern was that, I had an enrollment advisor who was replaced by an academic advisor after the first course. Have had two since. I am applying at Grand Canyon U. for my graduate degree in counseling. It is my understanding that that one advisor will be with me through out my education with them. In addition, some people have advisors who check with them on a regular basis. The only one who checked in with me is the current one who called me once. Some of the students do seem subliterate in their forum posts. Besides these slight complaints, I have had a good experience. Ashford applied a lot of my previous experience as life credits. For instace, I received credits for attending Combat Engineer school for the National Guard (for building materials) and for a hazmat course I took as a volunteer fireman. The classes are demanding, requiring lots of reading and writing. APA format is strongly enforced. This is good, I am finishing my education at Ashford with a sense of accomplishment. Instructors are supportive and responsive. Financial aid has gone smoothly. It has paid for all my classes and have received stipend checks two or three times a year which helps with finances. The text books have been excellent. My last concern, as I am graduating, has been for the transferability of my credits. Ashford is regionally accreditted. The military advisor at GCU, who is assigned to me told me without hesitation, that my credits would be accepted. At 55 yrs of age, I have always wanted a college degree. My wife is a T 6 spinal cord injury, and I work full time. The online class has allowed me to meet all my responsibilities and get an education. If you are motivated enough to utilize an online format, I recommend Ashford. It is a challenging course, but a whole team is at your disposal to assist you. Thank you Ashford for an over all good experience.
Excellent School
MBA
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on November 1, 2009
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Ashford University's MBA program has provided me with an excellent education and experience. I would highly recommend it to any professional who is looking pursue an MBA or any advance degree that they offer. All of my professors are PhD’s who have excellent educational backgrounds.
Bachelors of Social Science/Education
Social Science
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on October 26, 2009
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I enrolled here around this time last year and went for a while, but after getting a job at University of Phoenix, I decided that a free education is better than paying for one. Well I hated my job at U of P and resigned. Now I am going to return. Ashford has the best program for working adults, especially those like myself who hate traditional school. Once class every 5 weeks will fly by and before you know it, you are done and moving on to another course. I would recommend this school to anyone and would def agree that most reviews that are negative here are the people writings fault more than the school. Just because you aren't disciplined to do your work isn't Ashford's fault. Take responsibility for yourself!
10 th class
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on October 26, 2009
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This was my problem. I asked Mr. Robison, my professor at the time, if he could elaborate on the assignment due dates. His response was, "not everything in life is easy". I thought to myself maybe this teacher is a joker or something. I emailed him again with the same question. He responded back a week and half later, telling me there's nothing can do. "Assignments are due on Tuesday and Thursday." I replied thanks I suppose every teacher at Ashford has their own teaching styles. Ever since that day I nothing but problems. blackboard was down one day. So I called tech support. They told me their having diffulties but they will note in my record, just tell the instructor. Which I did through email. Explaining that my paper and posting are going to be late because the systems down. This instructor gives me a 0%, then after I complained he revised it and gave me a 80% because it was submitted late. I told my acedemic advisor and she told me all instructor have the discretion of accepting a paper late or not even if there is a tech problem. My beef is that is wasn't my tech problem it was the schools. It's like going to school the day of your test and the school is closed because of a bomb threat. then the teacher gives you a 0% or late points. Totally not fair.
Rought Start, but Worth the Wait!
Business Administration
Reviewer: jmckinney1978
(Degree In Progress) on October 26, 2009
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Ok, I've been in my program since June, and I am finishing up my 4th class. I had a VERY VERY rough start dealing with financial aid. Unfortunately, it took 5 months for my financial aid to get processed due to errors on my part and miscommunications from AU's financial aid office, however, I can say that it's worth the wait. They have a generous transfer credit policy which helps you graduate sooner. Although I had a headache trying to get through the financial aid process, and many times it was difficult trying to reach people to talk to (enrollment counselor, financial services advisor, academic advisor), but I will say this: IF you can get through the headache of miscommunication, waiting to hear from someone, trying to reach people and can't sometimes, you'll be satisfied with the school overall afterwards. I think the only complaint I really have is that it would take days for a return call back or email from my enrollment counselor, academic advisor and financial services advisor, which often got on my nerves. HOWEVER, I look forward to becoming an AU alumni...this is my honest opinion, and I don't have any other complaints about MY INSTITUION OF HIGHER LEARNING!!! GO SAINTS!!! :-)
non compliance professor
Business Administration
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on October 6, 2009
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I recently finished my 8th class at Ashford,I know that the people in Iowa are a bit slow so I never made a big deal of it. I had a death in my family which I fully made my professor aware of and after emailing her to get a due date on my final paper, SHE never replied so I email her again today and she turned in the grades today. I submitted my paper just a couple of hours ago. She responded to my 2nd email. I failed the class .. Wow , my GPA just took a dip like the stockmarket. where do I go from here....?
MA in Healthcare Admin - great program
Healthcare Administration
Reviewer: pnewmark
(Degree In Progress) on October 6, 2009
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I am currently enrolled in the Master's in Healthcare Administration Program. I have a Bachelor's from a large, public university in Oklahoma. I'm also a CPA. My experiences with Ashford have been very good and I find the coursework to be challenging. I guess it's up to the individual. I know I will have to work hard to earn my grades and, eventually, my degree.
Ashford University review
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: ecsc130
(Graduate) on October 4, 2009
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After having attended this univeristy and performing extensive research into other academic venues,I found this University to be ideal for the working adult who needs to obtain a viable degree. I genuinley worked for this degree although, I had over twenty five years of law enforcement experince, which made it easier to comprehend. The course reports were just long enough to make you think but short enough not to exhaust you mentally. This program was a great experience for me, and for those of you who have adult life experince this is a ideal avenue to get an accredited degree, as I am now in law school because of getting this degree. Good Luck with your reserach
financial aide
Business Administration
Reviewer: vaslim1946
(Degree In Progress) on September 20, 2009
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I am enjoying my classes,but the financial aide office need to improve greatly.They are rude and don't know ther job mvery well.
No Problems so far
Communications Studies
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on September 13, 2009
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I have been attending Ashford University for over a year now and cannot really complain about the quality of the courses. No financial worries either since my GI Bill covers the cost and then some. I did have a slight communication problem with one of my previous advisors but she was either transferred or otherwise left before I could complain and my current advisor has so far been very attentive to my concerns. Before Ashford I had studied at a few traditional brick and mortar colleges (Santa Monica College, San Francisco City College, Wright State University) and the actual coursework (readings, papers, etc) is pretty much on the same level, the only thing different being the "classroom" experience. I actually get more out of the online format than I did in the classroom but that is probably because I don't participate much in live classrooms anyway, preferring instead to just get on with it and do the readings and assignments. The same is true for my time at Ashford in that while they do require a certain amount of discussion posts, the assignments are really what matters so it pretty much works out for me. What I'm worried about is how credible the degree will be considered. I have read and researched much that states that online degress from Ashford, Phoenix, Kaplan, are not even looked at twice by potential employers. However, given my choice of degree - Communications Studies - in relation to my current occupation and work situation, I think I should be ok. Since I work for the government and Ashford is accredited, the degree will help to supplement my existing experience and skills with further advancement in my civil service career. However I would worry if I was expecting to get a position in a more technical or scientific field such as Information Systems based on an online degree since I think most of those fields often require some sort of practical application in addition to the book learning. With that being said, I think that an online degree such as the ones being offered through Ashford are more applicable to someone who already has viable work experience. Whereas employers may shy away from an applicant with only an online degree, they may be more open minded to those who they may see as having attended college later in life wanting to improve on their already existing skills.
Not a School 
MBA
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Graduate) on September 12, 2009
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It's true. I could probably learn as much about business a daily dose of Facebook. The Blackboard system works okay, but whew! the caliber of students-as well as instructors became a source of resentment over the course of the 2 years it took me to complete this program. I believe the instructors are told to hand out A grades liberally. I never received anything less than an A. Instructors often posted some impressive resumes, but were not involved with the class/Blackboard posts; except for a bunch of one-liners. I have a complete library of business texts now: haven't sold them yet...I could just as easily reread these texts and complete the exercises at the end of each Chapter and learn more than I did through the program. How could I not mention the lack of credible academic rigor? I recommend that one might better go to a REAL school. I am registered for my second Master's Degree now; at a school with real people and real interaction.
A Big Disappointment
Teaching and Learning with Technology
Reviewer: gretchen1112
(Degree In Progress) on September 8, 2009
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The admissions representative gives a RaRaRa! speech and is available all the time. Once you start classes, all staff disappears. Be aware that you cannot take off in between classes - not even a week. The advisor will tell you that you can, but the school automatically enrolls you in the next class. I was told that I would be able to take my pre-planned and paid-for vacation after my 1st class was over. WRONG! The 1st class ended on Monday and the 2nd class began Tuesday. When I asked why I was enrolled in the 2nd class on that date, I was told that if I took 1 day off, I would loose my funding. Bye bye Ashford.
Just about Finished
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: tntcullen
(Degree In Progress) on September 1, 2009
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I really believe people just like to give bad ratings and there is real no merit behind those ratings. I have been at Ashford for over 2 years now and it has worked out well with my job and family. The classes were good and there was alot of work. Make sure you stay on top of the work because you can get behind real fast. I have had two family emergencies during the two years and both times my academic advisor was there to help. I have one class left to go and then I am done, Sure its no Harvard or MIT but it is still a great college and I am proud to say I will graduate from Ashford.
Good School!!!!
Business Administration
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on August 24, 2009
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I will say that I used to work for Ashford as an Admissions Manager, and while I didn't agree with policies and procedures there or feel that I didn't get treated fairly, I would have to say that Ashford is a great school! Faculty and other university staff show they are dedicated and all about the student. I am not going to let my work experience there come into my overall rating of Ashford, everyone cares about students there and that's all the makes the difference. I will be graduating soon and I am very proud to have come this far.
Ashford is an Excellent Online Option
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on August 15, 2009
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My experience with Ashford has been excellent. Coming from a traditional in-seat experience at Broward College in Broward County, Florida, I feel that my knowledge from the curriculum at Ashford has definitely widened my scope. The professor's posed challenging questions and excellent feedback within the Blackboard forums. Get ready to do a lot of writing in pure APA format! Yes, you will have to be responsible for making contact with both your academic advisor and your financial aid advisor on a regular basis in order to fulfill the tasks you hope to achieve at Ashford, but that would be at any college in which you take initiative. I am currently in the final two courses (yes you can take two courses concurrently) of my Bachelor's of Organizational Mangagement and find that any college I am hoping to attend for my Master's in Public Administration have stated they will transfer the entire degree towards their MPA. That is of course, if I choose not to continue on with Ashford's MPA in October. Ultimately I only required eleven courses with Ashford in order to obtain my BAOM, so I was able to complete that task starting in January of 2009 and ending in September, 2009. Be sure to as about the PLA program (Prior Learning Assessment) as I was able to eliminate 23 elective credits by submitting a one page Credit Rational paper and $30 per credit. I don't think you can complete your BA at ANY other college in eight to nine months! As a Deputy Sheriff it will provide me an opportunity to advance within my career and my employer is not concerned with Ashford's 'credibility' because they have heard from many different agencies that they are excellent! On a scale from one to ten, I would give Ashford, its professors and its administrative staff a ten! Good luck in your endeavors.
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS COLLEGE!!!!!!!
Social Science/Education
Reviewer: ilovetoteach1
(Degree In Progress) on August 12, 2009
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I HAVE BEEN ATTENDING ASHFORD FOR THREE YEARS NOW AND I STILL LOVE IT. OF COURSE IT HAS ITS BAD POINTS AS WITH ANY COLLEGE. I FOUND THE SUPPORT ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. THEY RESPOND ALMOST IMMEDIATELY. MY LOCAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE NEAR ME WOULD NEVER EVEN RETURN MY CALLS OR EMAILS. I AM DISABLED AND COULD NOT CONTINUE GOING ON CAMPUS TO A COLLEGE BECAUSE OF MY HEALTH. THIS COLLEGE HAS MAD IT POSSIBLE TO ACHIEVE WHAT WOULD HAVE BEEN THE IMPOSSIBLE. I CAN NOT TAKE TEST BECAUSE OF SEVERE ANXIETY BUT AT ASHFORD, THEY HAVE A PROGRAM THAT DOES NOT MAKE ME TAKE TEST OR FINAL TEST. STUDENTS HAVE TO WRITE ESSAYS INSTEAD OF STUDYING FOR FINALS. IT HAS ELLIMINATED MY ANXIETY PROBLEM. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS COLLEGE, BUT ONLY IF YOU ARE WILLING TO REALLY LEARN HOW TO WRITE. THEIR EXPECTATIONS CAN BE HIGH WHEN WRITING ESSAYS. THERE ARE AT LEAST TWO PAPERS IN EVERY CLASS BUT NO FINAL TESTS TO CRAM FOR. THANKS GOD. LOL. I AGREE THAT THE LOAN PROCESS IS VERY SLOW BUT IF YOU ARE AWARE OF THIS, YOU CAN EASILY MAKE IT WORK. I BUY ALL MY BOOKS USED AND HAVE ONLY BOUGHT ONE BOOK NEW IN THREE YEARS. MY AVERAGE COST PER BOOK IS HALF THE PRICE OF THE NEW BOOKSTORE PRICES. IF YOU WANT MY ADVICE, AND WANT TO LEARN TO BE A GOOD WRITER, THEN ENROLL IN THIS COLLEGE. I PLAN TO STAY AT ASHFORD WHEN I GRADUATE WITH MY BA AND GET MY MASTERS WITH THEM. THIS COLLEGE MAY OR MAY NOT FIT YOUR NEEDS AS WITH ANY COLLEGE. SO DO YOUR HOMEWORK. LOOK AT THEIR EXAMPLE CLASSES ON BLACKBOARD. ASK MANY QUESTIONS AND YOU SHOULD MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION ABOUT WHICH COLLEGE TO ATTEND. THIS COLLEGE IS NOT FOR EVERYONE AS WITH ANYTHING IN LIFE. GOD BLESS, COLLEGE MOM
~Cont ~ Previous Post
Business Administration
Reviewer: watsonlisa15
(Degree In Progress) on August 10, 2009
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I find it hard to believe that the President of the United States would deliver a major national policy speech at Ashford if this school was not known for its quality educational practices. This school is great and hopefully students will start attending at least 3 courses before they post remarks that are completely unreliable. Ashford University is a regionally accredited institution and their credits transfer to other regionally accredited institutions. They are recognized by the Higher Learning Commission which is a member of the North Central Association of colleges and schools.
Only 30 percent of all educational institutions have business programs that are accredited by AACSB--and Ashford is not one of them. Ashford is one of the 70 percent majority not AACSB accredited. This does not mean that their business degrees are not valuable in the workforce, but it does mean that if you plan on becoming a top CEO on the Board at one of fortune 500's largest and most profitable corporations, you need to have an MBA from an AACSB accredited institution that requires the GMAT at enrollment. I have known many colleagues and business professionals who have received business degrees from regionally accredited institutions whom are faring rather well in their careers. If you are rich and you can afford to pay top dollar to attend a school that is AACSB accredited (which is the gold standard of business degree programs) then I would recommend you do so. But if you are like the majority of Americans who are looking for a way to supplement their income but don't have the funds to attend an advanced business school, then Ashford is a great place to pursue your professional goals. Ashford is a well-respected university that offers an up-to-date curriculum. This university has received Quality Matters(TM) Recognition for two years in a row--which acknowledges Ashford's commitment in assuring its courses are based on rigorous, research-based standards. They also allow you to attend your classes' commencement ceremony when you graduate. At graduation, I will walk across that stage and proudly accept my Ashford University degree.
~God Bless You All,
Lisa (I am a double major pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Business Economics).
Ashford is Awesome
Business Administration
Reviewer: watsonlisa15
(Degree In Progress) on August 10, 2009
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Ashford University is a prestigious school in which Democratic President Barack Obama (then president elect) delivered a major speech at in September of 2007. This school is notorious for its quality educational practices. I am in my 18th course and I am thoroughly enjoying my experience at Ashford. When I enrolled at Ashford 2 years ago, sure there were a few students (out of 20-25 students) in the discussions who were struggling with English because it was a second language, but those same students ended up dropping out by the third class because they couldn't keep up with the curriculum. If you stick around to at least the end of your second course/beginning of your third, you will find a host of incredibly experienced classmates who are well-versed and very intelligent. People who enroll and only complete one class are the ones who complain about the use of language from foreigners who are attempting to complete their education--but unfortunately they end up dropping out because they have a hard time reading their weekly assignments and posting their relative responses in the discussion board. I think it is just ludicrous how impatient and rude some people can be to foreigners who are trying to learn an extremely hard language and who are trying to better themselves. The reason why they end up dropping out is because people look down upon them instead of encouraging them to keep trying.
Ashford is horrible
MBA
Reviewer: sandiegoscholar
(Degree In Progress) on August 6, 2009
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If you are planning on trying to get a good education or job advancement, do not go to Ashford. This school is a sales company and not a real school. The MBA program is not recognized as an accreditited business school. Most real business schools require some sort of entrance exam, especially the required GMAT for all legit business schools. Ask any employer if they have ever hired an Ashford graduate. They will all tell you no. This school is recognized as a joke all across San Diego County and nobody will hire an Ashford Graduate here. I even asked an advisor at Ashford what companies have been hiring their graduates and she said she could not tell me. The classes are even a bigger joke than the school itself. Any human with a writing level of fourth grade can be a grad student here. I could not believe the posts that people were posting in my classes. I seriously thought I was in a class with a bunch of third graders. People with real degrees from real schools laugh at Ashford students and their graduates.
Great Experience
Business Administration
Reviewer: ausaintpascott
(Degree In Progress) on July 30, 2009
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This has been a great experience for me. I am currently in my 13th course at Ashford and I will graduate 09/2011. The only downfall is that some of Ashford's custom textbooks are very expensive. My BUS 330 Principles of Marketing course textbook was $196 and I have had a couple others that were between $140 and $150. The average cost of textbooks for previous courses has been between $65 and $90. If you buy all your textbooks when you receive your stipend, you should be fine...but if you don't, you may become frustrated with the cost of your books. The staff and professors have been excellent and the curriculum is top notch. Just keep in mind that just about every course requires an 8-16 page research paper for your final grade. This grade counts for 25-30 percent of your course grade--you pretty much have to spend most of your course time planning for your final. In week 3 of every course, you have to either complete a rough draft of your final or submit a 3-5 page essay on an instructed topic. The discussion forums are really neat and I enjoy getting to analyze my classmate's thoughts on the discussion topics. The weekly readings are usually 2-3 chapters long. To truly get the most out of this experience, it is imperative to keep up with the assigned readings. The topics in the discussion forum are relative to the weekly readings. There are objective assessments due at the end of each week--but if you read the assigned readings, they are a breeze. If you do not read, it is extremely hard to find the answers hidden within the chapters. Overall, this has been an awesome experience and I am very proud of the quality education I am receiving. I would highly recommend Ashford to prospective students.
Teachers Great--Office Staff Not So Much!!
MBA
Reviewer: client.care247
(Degree In Progress) on July 30, 2009
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I started the week of Thanksgiving 2008, probably not a good idea, was ill for about half of the class. The instructor never answered my emails requesting information about my progress (ie. Whether I should submit missed work, drop). I ended up getting an F, after my advisor told me to move on to the next class and I did not turn in the final paper (you cannot get an F). I obtained an 88 on the retake (for another $1500 charge) , plus A’s & B’s on subsequent classes. I prefer to get my books now from campusbookrentals.com to help defray out of pocket costs. I have been given the run around on financial aid. My most recent disbursement arrived on 7/7. To date, five emails to three different people over the last month have remained unanswered regarding when I can expect my $4000-5000 stipend. By the time it comes my car will be repossessed or just voluntarily relinquished to the loan company. The only way I received my last stipend was to call the supervisor and threaten to drop out of the school and contact a lawyer. I have considered going to another school but figured there are negatives all over. I also thought that attending an online school that actually had a physical campus somewhere would be more beneficial than the just freestanding Internet schools. But, clearly I was wrong. Another thing you must realize too is that online schooling is still in its infancy. It really emerged with the dot.com boom. But no one has as large a market share as University of Phoenix and even they have bad reviews. You need to do your research on their finances, professors, and login requirements. Also, what the other students are doing has nothing to do with you. If they can't put together a full sentence then that’s their problem. Surely, you can find 2-3 other classmates to correspond on a discussion with. No one really knows what the perception is in the workplace about online degrees because there really are not enough studies. But, employers have to realize that when adults go to school online it decreases the amount of time they need off or away from work. No, you are not going to be able to compete with the likes of Harvard, Yale, or Princeton. The teachers are all different. One can be demanding like you are at an Ivy league school and another can obviously be just doing this for extra money in between his real full time job. It’s what you make of it. You can skimp on the assignments just to get an A or you can apply yourself so that you can have some real world experience to use. If it weren't for the financial aid problems and conflicting answers that I get from the office staff, then I would have been able to recommend this school with no reservations to others. The staff knows that I prefer they not contact me unless in writing because of my dissatisfaction with the advisement that I have received since 11/2008.
Ashford University--3 years, about to graduate.
Social Science/Education
Reviewer: kychickadee
(Degree In Progress) on July 28, 2009
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I enrolled at Ashford in mid-2006. The bottom dropped out of my home life less than a year in, but my academic advisor was very helpful, and after having to take one of my allowed leaves of absence I got back on track rather quickly. I have only purchased ONE text through the campus bookstore--cheaper alternatives are not hard to find if you look,and in all of the courses I've had I have never encountered a problem with the off-"campus" textbooks. I have no serious complaints about any of the courses in my degree program save one (a Phonics course for which I had to purchase a set of commercially available phonics CDs and workbooks). It's important to remember that the difference between this type of classroom and traditional, brick & mortar types is that everyone sees everyone else's work & the class average grade. The quality of YOUR education is what YOU put into it, not how what you do compares against someone else, and just because YOU think someone shouldn't pass a course doesn't mean that student hasn't met the required standards for a C-. As far as financial aid goes, I haven't had any issues but I had experience with it from my previous stint on a traditional campus. If you don't know what you're signing DON'T SIGN ANY FORM until you sit down with someone who does understand! Or...reject the aid package (you do have that right) and withdraw. In order to become federal Title IV financial aid eligible, Ashford had to comply with the same standards as any other traditional institution of higher education. And, AU is accredited by the Better Business Bureau. These things I learned from my own research before officially enrolling. Know what you're getting into BEFORE you get into it. I've enjoyed AU, and will probably pursue an MA online--though most likely not with Ashford, as they don't offer my program of choice.
Disappointed
Social Science/Education
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on July 27, 2009
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I attended Ashford for the last year. I found their curriculum to be extremely predictable and it offered no challenge whatsoever. If you like writing papers, this is the school for you because this is just about all you will do. The work assigned throughout each course offered me no real value. I do not believe that I would have been prepared to go out into the workforce upon graduation if I continued with Ashford. Their financial aid dept. is awful to work with. They are very rude and ignore emails. They have a rule of dispersing out funds in a 30/70 manner. In other words, if you need your excess funds for books....you are going to have to wait. They "issue" out 30% of your excess funds only after 7 weeks of successful attendance, then after another 7 weeks, you get the remaining 70%. And 'round and 'round it goes. If you are looking for a quality education with involved instructors this is not the college for you. I have had many classes where the instructors communicated with students very minimally. I do not think that this college is a scam, however, I do think that it is not a college that will do anybody much justice if you really want to learn new things that will be helpful to you and your career choice.
a joke
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on July 27, 2009
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I am a student at this present time and I'm in my third class and this will be my last class. I will admit that I didn't do my homework about this place and I know that Imust get out now once I receive my last check. in a few weeks I will definitely know whether this school isn't worth anything after I enroll in my community college next week and see what they ha ve to say about transfering their credits in Psy 202 and English Composition 1 . I have not had one problem with them until I started reading all the reviews and plus my sister work for the Justice Department in California and she had alot to say and this is why I got to go, and not only that alot of companies don't hire or tolerate these online degreeso I guess I can say that I have to pay back money for nothing.
Love classes but Financial Aid are RUDE
Business Administration
Reviewer: Toknow904
(Degree In Progress) on July 24, 2009
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I love Ashford classes and I love the flexiability but financial aid are rude and don't care. I called financial aid and they are giving my different dates on when I am suppose to be receiving my stepid check. I spoke to one finacial aid rep and he was very rude and was laughing at my questions. I even called his manager to leave a message and have yet to receive a returning phone call. Their financial aid department is so unorganized and not customer service like. I e-mailed my financial aid rep and have not received a response as well. Ashford needs to understand that it is hard trying to buy books. Why can't they be like other colleges and just give book vochers and people would not have to be struggling to buy books. Ashford financial aid department gets mad when you call them about your stepid check like it's their money and like they are the ones that is paying for your loan. But overall I love the classes I had so far but financial aid needs to get a makeover and stop hiring high school rude people.
So far so good
Business Administration
Reviewer: nermel1982
(Degree In Progress) on July 22, 2009
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I have been enrolled in Ashford since February and have not had a problem with them at all. I have had good experiences with enrollment, financial aid, classes, and instructors. I had 40 credits transfer from my previous college which I thought was great that was 1/3 of my required credits. The only frustration I had was my state aid which was my fault not Ashfords, I put my application in too late, so I didn't get it but the Pell grant paid for a majority of everything so far and I did get Stafford Loans but that was only because I could really use the left over financial aid that they send back to me. So overall I am satisfied with the flexibility of it all since I have social anxiety it is great for me I don't have to leave my house.
An Excellent Learning Institution
Organizational Management
Reviewer: rebeccasalgado
(Degree In Progress) on July 21, 2009
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I am beginning my second major at Ashford University, just ending Organizational Business Management and have found the experience over the past three years to be above average. Most of the Professors are seasoned and well versed, eager to both teach and learn. I am very pleased that I chose Ashford as the educational institution where I will earn both my Business and Psychology BA degrees. The overall experience at Ashford has instilled in me the desire to further my education upon graduation. I will immediately be attending a program for a Masters/PhD in Clinical Psychology with (hopefully) three specialties: Trauma, Children and Adolescents, and Spirituality. Thank you for this opportunity to share my thoughts about Ashford University. Rebecca Salgado Sun City, CA
A Proud Ashford University Student
Business Administration
Reviewer: ekalsi
(Degree In Progress) on July 21, 2009
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In my opinion, choosing to go for my BA in Business Administration at Ashford University back in April 2009 was one of the very best choices I ever made. As of today, I currently hold a very well deserved 3.65 GPA for the very first time ever. I was late one day in submitting an initial post because of the Blackboard system going down and my previous post not making it as the result. However, the instructor still gave me full credit for the initial post after I honestly explained the whole truth on why it was a day late. It may seem challenging at first to squeeze a whole courseload in 5 short weeks, but I do have faith that it can be done. My only regret would be not pursuing a wonderful opportunity like this earlier.
My Experince with Ashford
Social Science/Education
Reviewer: icityrei
(Degree In Progress) on July 20, 2009
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I enrolled into Ashford in March 2009. I love this school! Anytime I have emailed or called, about a question with my homework, finical aide. or the blackboard; I receive a phone call or email within 24 hours. They are very supportive, understanding & helpful! Going to any school is stressful. But, my advisors have ALWAYS been there to help me, always! I would highly recommend this school to anyone who has a busy life & does want to go back to school. I do wish they had more variety on the degrees but who knows they might later on. I am really excited to get my bachelors degree. I don't know about any of the other advisors but I have already helped enroll 3 friends and they love it as much as I do. I also have other friends & family who are trying to get enrolled. So all the bad reviews IDK why or how you got to where you are but I know how I got to where I am. I checked my emails did all the info my advisor told me fill out. I made sure I got things done on time for class. You walk through the blackboard with your advisor or you have an option of a 24.7 800# that will help you if you get stuck. I love this school & I know you will too, if you are willing to do the work & by the rules, not what is best for you. It's the same rules for everyone! Tuesdays you start your week first day of the class your have your INTRO due, next 4 weeks you wont have anything due on Tuesdays for that class. Thursdays is day 3 where you have to do the blackboard discussion assignment, then depending on the teacher & assignment you will have a written paper due Sunday day 6, then on Monday you have to make sure you respond to 2-3 people in your class about the discussion you wrote on Thursday & agree or dissagree with what they wrote. It's all about communication! They say you only have to sign in 2x out the week but honestly to keep above a 3.0 it's going to take you *tues, thurs, sun & mon* these are just my feelings & how I have been able to keep my grades so high. 3 to 4 days to get those A's =0} good luck to whatever you choose. I just now started my 3rd week of my 4th class & have completed 3 classes giving me a total of 9 credits so far, and my gpa is 3.33. Out of my four teachers so far only one was hard to understand. But they all are so helpful in the end I would never want to go to any of the previous colleges like ENMUR online or AIU. I love the Ashford staff they rock! If you want to go back & speak to I did get where I am call my advisor because I can speak that he is 100% dedicated to helping you come back to school. Also, I like that if you don't want to come back or go with Ashford my Advisor is very understanding & not a jerk like some of the other schools that pressure you or put you down or harass you. Thanks & I hope this helps, Felicity
Love the classes - frustrated with admin
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: piper4915
(Degree In Progress) on July 17, 2009
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I have been enrolled with Ashford since January 2007 and my experiences were great up until last October. The school changed it's stipend disbursement process requiring 7 weeks of coursework completed before receiving 30% of a students stipend and the remaining 70% would be disbursed upon completion of 14 weeks. I have had to request economic hardship 2 times because I cannot afford their $100 books every 5 weeks without the funds that I am accruing interest on. Ashford enrollment and academic advisors are great, but their financial aid dept cancelled my loans 2 days before disbursement claiming I failed a course. This course was re-taken the previous year and passed, so it was a mistake on my FSA's part. The worst part of this refers to the fact that I found out about the cancellation by mail through Iowa Student Loan, NOT Ashford. They didn't even call to inform me of the cancellation. The financial aid manager stated she would try to recover the funds, but it is now July and I lost $1300 of pell grant money due to their mistake. My funds finally arrived on July 7th and I'm still awaiting the hardship approval - but I had to drop the current class because I couldn't afford the book. I have been paying out-of-pocket since May for expenses that my $3500 stipend should have absorbed. I am now looking into transferring as I have trying to contact all of my advisors all week stating my disappointment, and I still have not recieved the time of day. Having a 3.6 gpa obviously doesn't mean that you'll get treated as a person here - not a good school if you don't have the $ to fork out $100 every 5 weeks for books.
Love it!
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on July 16, 2009
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I love Ashford. The teachers have been wonderful, the flexible timing is perfect for me, and purple is growing on me!
Never In my life have I been so shocked
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: bharmon_71
(Degree In Progress) on July 16, 2009
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I have never in my life been so disgusted with a so called university. getting enrolled was no problem whatsoever, just like everyone before me has attested to. Once in my class (ADULT DEVELOPMENT) I was first shocked at a few of the students that couldnt even put a sentance together or spell the simplist of words. I have no problem with that, however How can they be enrolled in a course like that. the next thing that shocked me was the fact that they wanted us to do a paper in APA format. Well that is fine but ashford's APA guidelines are not the same as the NATIONAL APA guidelines. I kept bringing this to everyone's attention, I.e. teacher, teachers assistant and my enrollment advisor. I know I am abviously anal about it, however it sends up red flags when a University can not even get the APA guidelines right. Ashford specifies left margin at 1 1/2 inches. where APA clearly states every margin is 1 inch. APA used to be 1 1/2 but changed to 1 inch. anyway after this it just went down hill. I thought to google ashford reviews and I was mortified, in my class everytime a student asked a question, the instructor would say I really don't know. I mean gosh shouldnt you know? your teaching the course. well anyway so I spoke to my so called academic advisor and the person over my student loan. oh my gosh I have had better customer service at a fast food drive through. they are downright rude etc. anyway I told my advisor that I was quitting to attend a real university like ASU and he said "im excited to not to have to deal with you anymore". Please do your homework and dont go with this school.. a complete and utter rip off, and they treat you like crap to boot as an added bonus.
Take these reviews with a grain of salt
Organizational Management
Reviewer: dirtbiking
(Graduate) on July 12, 2009
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A lot of these reviewers are either tainted by bad experiences and offer plain untruths. For instances, many (not all) Ashford University textbooks if purchased from THEIR bookstore are packaged with their name on it. However, the course information provides the full ISBN and you can buy the textbook anywhere online and usually cheaper. That said, their bookstore is very efficient. Living in Tennessee I normally received a book from them within 2 days. The few times I tried buying my books elsewhere was more hassle than the savings were worth. As for academics, what do you expect, a Harvard or MIT education? Give me a break. I did the bulk of my undergraduate work (80+ hours) in a brick n' mortar institution (Univ of Nevada, Las Vegas) and found Ashford to be on par as far as a non-technical degree program goes. Like UNLV, Ashford has good and bad instructors, and some courses are relatively easy while others are not. I actually found Ashford's course load to be much more intense than UNLV, and for the most part, their professors won't accept the "dog ate my homework" excuses many of my UNLV professors would. As for brick n' mortar institutions, if you find sitting in a lecture hall with 150+ other students while a professor drones on non-stop for 50 minutes and then leaves without answering a single question a better learning environment, more power to you. Finally, you have to separate the academic from the marketing side. all these institutions do this nowadays as they battle to fill seats. Otherwise, I have had very good academic advisors, and never experienced a single problem with their financial department whatsoever. Bottom line: you get what you pay. Its not MIT but it's not a degree mill either. Ashford's online programs are accelerated and the workload bears this out. If you do not participate in the discussion forums, or turn in homework on time you fail, just like a traditional school. Like a traditional school, each course has its bright students and those who aren't so much, and this is reflected in their work. I accomplished approximately 40 credits, obtain my degree, and found Ashford relatively on par with all the brick n' mortar institutes I've attended as far as course relevancy, instructors, and academics. Hope this helps other prospective students.
Two Happy Students Here
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: gherwick1
(Degree In Progress) on July 11, 2009
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Both me and my husband have been students at Ashford for over a year now and are loving every minute of it. I know that it takes a lot of work but we both have straight A's and with the help of my advisors, all 3, we are doing great. We get calls checking in with us every few weeks as well as emails regularly. I love this school and so does my husband. Those people on here complaining need to realize that school is a second job and you have to want it and be willing to earn it.
Get Over Your Issues
Business Administration
Reviewer: rrichison
(Degree In Progress) on July 11, 2009
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I started out paying cash for my course, but after my 3rd class, I decided to apply for finanicial aid. It only took about 1.5 weeks to apply and get approved. It is true some of the academic advisors and financial aid reps are just as ignorant and the people posting bad remarks. You have to be smart enough to know what you want and how to obtain it. This is a great online program which doesn't rely on anyone but you to complete. When you do enroll and you start reading your the required postings, you will see there are definately people who don't belong in a college course. I think some of these people are the one typing these negative reviews. In summary, if you want to obtain your degree and you do not have the time to attend a traditional university, this is the best online program. The other popular online programs do not allow you to apply to any masters programs expect for their own.
BE VERY CAREFUL!!! (And I'm a neutral party!)
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on July 9, 2009
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I first contacted this school just to get general information, as I planned to look into several schools before making a decision. I can validate what a lot of other posts here have already stated: be careful! Once you make that call, they will suck you in and make it very hard to get away. After I made the call, I was immediately pressured into completing their online application form. (I wasn't even ready to apply, though! I just wanted information!) But okay, so I agreed just to "apply"....and then I'd continue on with my plan to research other schools in the meantime. Well, they advisors they set you up with (upon your first call) will call you incessantly, day after day. It is very annoying, very high-pressure.....they just want you to sign up. It is more pressure you will receive than at a used car lot. I honestly wonder if these "advisors" are paid on a commission or something like that.... Anyway, I've done my research and for many reasons I've decided not to attend this school. So I encourage everyone out there to please do your research!! Draw clear boundaries with these guys and don't be forced into a decision. Here is what I found (and the reasons I won't be attending this school): - It is NOT the cheapest online degree program out there. Check out a lot of other state and private universities, especially the ones that are reputable campus schools (not just the strictly online schools). - You may get more financial aid by going to a state school, because most states have state grants that are provided for in-state schools too. - The traditional university format has it's strengths: you get to pick your own courses each quarter and the traditional quarter-format is much more manageable in terms of work/life balance (for me,anyway). - Many schools will NOT accept credits from Ashford if you choose to transfer or apply for graduate school. Please look into this if you've got educational plans beyond Ashford. - Lots of complaints filed on Better Business Bureau. I compared their file to that of other schools I'd been researching, and it didn't even compare. Now if you think about it, why would any even have a reason to file a complain with BBB for a SCHOOL??? Well, of all the other schools, only one of them had 1 complaint filed. Ashford, on the other hand, had about 35. That's a lot for any business, let along a school. So do your research, folks. It's up to you But who knows....this may be the perfect fit for someone out there. But not for me.
Run around
Business Administration
Reviewer: kjv1611ac
(Degree In Progress) on July 7, 2009
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I contacted this school as an inquiry. Robert is a smooth talker. I continually asked him ALL through the inquiry if this was obligating me. He continually answered no and pressured me into apply for financial aid to see if I would qualify. Before I knew it, I was enrolled and plagued with phone calls and e-mails. I can't seem to get ANY help getting off the enrollment. They seem to ignore those calls. Do not do an inqury of this school unless you are ready for an e-mail and phone nightmare!!!!
graduate says Great!
Healthcare Administration
Reviewer: ckstringer
(Graduate) on July 1, 2009
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They took 99 of my credits and in 18 months I graduated. They let me CLEP out of two classes that saved time and money--As a career changer (finance to health care) I am thrilled that I did this so fast and really learned something. They set me right up on the FAFSA and the money was there. If you don't get money it is becuase you make too much but there are always loans. I am getting my masters next.
HORRIBLE
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on July 1, 2009
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I'm writing this because there is so much pressure to attend this school. They contact you at all hours, even after I asked them to please remove my phone number from the calling list every single time. They try to be your friend and then get you in front of a computer to apply to the school. When I said that I wasn't ready because I had to make this decision with my husband's support. The advisor didn't seem to care and all I had to do was apply to the school. Because of these pressure tactics, I enrolled at another school on MY terms.
My recent experience
Social Science/Education
Reviewer: dominicanfrenchie
(Degree In Progress) on June 29, 2009
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I thought I was one of the few exceptions to the rule when I enrolled in this school and things went so smoothly, my academic advisor couldnt call me enough, then the sh*t hit the fan, I was failed from a class after being promised to be given time to hand in assignments (while 2 other students were given full credit for handing it in after I did), Financial aid people are a joke, they dont call back, and whenthey do they have an attitude, i requested to be withdrawn from this school and here i am 3 months later still having issues. Do your homework, plus my first and second class were passed without purchasing a single book (they averge 100+, per class) not to mention that if you think your getting excess funds to buy books, NOT happening, they hit you with the Technology fee as soon as your account reflects excess funds, they have your go thru a huge rigamorole to request special permission to have your own money released to you then when you are approved, they charge you the technology fee so that there are no funds left over, plus the fact that they tell you that you can only get approval once, so any excess funds from consecutive disbursements are in limbo?? these people are full of malarchy, they are out to get whatever they can and in the process give you a "mediocre" education that no one values.... too much money for so little return.
bad
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on June 25, 2009
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If you are planning to take courses you get it through work, make sure Ashford does not screw you over. I was told what do do as financial aid, and they told me they knew how the employer does it as far as tuition reimbursement or direct bill. They told me one thing and ended up the other. Also make sure you have a fricken pc not a mac or else you get screwed again. if you have a mac, make sure you get windows on it, which defeats the purpose of having a mac.
I’m surprised not to see an average review
MBA
Reviewer: thriftymarine
(Degree In Progress) on June 11, 2009
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Why do people have to be so polar? The school is not perfect but it is not bad. Many of the problems people seem have deal with communication. I had no issues with enrollment, financial aid, or my academic advisor. My undergrad issues at brick and mortar school were a nightmare compared to this. I too felt a little pressured into enrolling. Every other online degree program I talked to used the same tactics. Get over it people, they are running a business. With that said I do feel that they are in the business of quick diploma turn around. It’s not a diploma factory! My undergrad program at a large Big Ten University made me feel more like a number as they processed me through the educational process. I have B.S. in Aerospace Engineering. The online environment was more challenging in the beginning than my undergrad program due to my poor writing skills. This is something I wanted desperately to improve. Some of the classes are boorishly easy while others are difficult. You learn as much as you want to learn. You can and do learn in this environment. There are people that feel they have to be in a classroom to learn. My best friend from college made it trough most of in Aerospace Engineering degree going to less than 10% of the classes. He was a strait a student. It just depends on how you learn. The reason I picked this program was that I did not wand to rely on others for group projects and it was completely online. I travel a lot and need this flexibility. I give this program a thumbs up for flexibility and ease of use. Most of the Professors seem genuinely interested in your educational goals. I’m not a huge fan of the online environment but made a concession.
Very Satisfied after 6 classes
Public Relations/Marketing
Reviewer: bradleygt89
(Degree In Progress) on June 9, 2009
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I came to this review site back in October of '08 when I first decided to finish my degree. I am 38 years old and had about 60 credits to transfer, plus credits from when I was in the Navy. I read all the reviews on here, asked lots of questions from the staff at Ashford, my brother who has BS from a brick and mortar school and then weighed my options. While going to a CC was an option for me, it would have been very hard as a single father who at the time was in the car business and working 50-60 hours a week. So I enrolled in Ashford. I have had a couple different academic advisers over the time and during one class, a professor was let go half way into it for allowing extra credit(which is against school rules it turns out). These have been my only two small issues, other then the usual stuff like Blackboard going down a couple times on me(which if its on a due date for work to be turned in, the Professor will let you have an extra day of course) IF you take the time to fill out your FAFSA and other paperwork as required, you will be fine. I had NO problems with my loans or transfer of credits, although they did take longer then I thought they should, but all was in there by second week of class. IF you need or want someone to hold your hand and baby you the whole way through enrollment and your schooling this may not be for you. Most students that I have come across are like myself and either in the field they wish to study for and more mature (over 30). Like any classroom or schooling environment, you will have one or two in your class that you know are bringing the bell curve down, but if YOU want to get an education and are motivated to learn, this is a great environment to do it in. There is a variety in the classroom situations unlike what some have said on here, but even in a brick and mortar situation you have the same tediousness in my opinion: do homework (discussion board), quizzes, reports and final papers. I have learned a lot in my classes here and already have applied them at my work and in my life. To sum it up, if you are motivated and want a good education and have the drive to succeed without being pampered or told what to do, this will be a great choice for you. But do some research into other programs, both online and brick and mortar (look at the reviews for you local CC and University and you will see not all love them either) as well and make you mind up. Remember that enrollment advisers are salespeople and will SELL you on the benefits of their particular schools program. As a fellow salesman, I can see through the BS and make up my own mind. DO the same for yourselves and you'll be happy with your decision!
Ashford is Awesome!!!!! 7th class and loving it
AA Business
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on June 8, 2009
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I love this school. All the staff are very helpful. They are willing to help you with anything you need. It is very organized and thoughtout. Classes are chalanging but yet not too challanging. I wish that they had financial ade for books, but Other than that this school is awesome!
Do your homework!!
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: simplyuniqueindividuals
(Degree In Progress) on June 2, 2009
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I have read several of teh complaints and must say the ones that are compaining about being able to transfer their credits did not do their homework. My sister is a financial aid advisor at a school in Los Angeles and recommended before I enrolled to research the accreditation. Ashford is accredited, but regionally not nationally. Meaning that your credits will only be transferrable in the region for which they are accredited. Just like any other university you are advised to contact the college you plan to transfer to prior to taking a class to ensure it will be accepted. This is advice for online and off line students. For instance, although I completed my AA in Los Angeles Community College District not all State of California Universities would transfer them. Also if you look at their webiste it has a list of achools that they are partners with. Once again do your homework!!!
Good, becareful, as you would anywhere
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on June 2, 2009
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As long as you don't fall into the trap of believing everything you are told upfront, then I don't think you will be disappointed. The blackboard (BB) is no different here, than anywhere that uses it or a similar software. One post here says they don't credit you if the BB is down. I imagine that it is up to the instructor, but I have yet to have one not credit me if the BB was down. I have noticed many people who post things late in the BB. An assignment due date is there for a reason, so if you are going to be late, don't complain. I have 5 classes under my belt here and I won't complaint about the education I am rec'g, compared to the standard on campus education I have rec'd. The financial aid issues are the same everywhere. I do think the advisors and enrollment people are less than qualified sometimes. They also acted as though my associates degree would full transfer, but only about 70% did. That was disappointing. Ashford is worth it though. They are accredited and I have found the instructors are serious about their topics. The Admin and books are what I question....
Good as any
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: forjlw
(Degree In Progress) on June 1, 2009
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I am midway through Criminal Justice, and I find it very satisfactory. I have attended both a traditional accreditated community college and a state university, and I don't see the big difference, other than the convenience of doing it online. Some students are just malcontents. I have gotten prompt and ample support every time I've asked, but I haven't had to ask frequently. It's not cheap, but it is no worse than other reputable online colleges. The textbooks are the same as other universities. The five week format is great as far as I'm concerned, and contrary to someone else's assertion, they are NOT all identical.
absolutely not worth the time
Business Administration
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on May 31, 2009
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I am writing this on behalf of my step-sister. She separated from the US Navy last year and wanted to get her college degree. When she asked me for my input, I suggested she research her options very carefully. Nearly one week later, she informed me a local online consortium had contacted her and offered to accept her military training as a substitute for nearly ALL of her prerequisite 100 and 200-level credentials. Having spent several years working alongside a colleague who later became the president of a very well reputed corporation, I decided to inquire about the bona fides of an online university in today's business world. Sadly, her response was what I feared most-she told me to tell my sibling, "absolutely not worth her time." Unfortunately, my sister did not listen. She paid her enrollment fee and expected classes to provide her the necessary instruction to permit her to find suitable employment in the business community. Almost six months later, my sister had her BBA in marketing. To date, she is yet to find a job paying more than $28,650. Her total bill for materials and instruction: more than $50,000. Several potential employers have suggested she transfer her units to an accredited university, like USD or National. To my sister's disgust, these schools will NOT accept any of her upper division work, and few of her accredited transfer credits from the US Navy. SDSU told her she would likely have to start at the Freshman level, if they admitted her at all in lieu of her attendance/degree completion at another university.
Online education depends on personal focus
Organizational Management
Reviewer: jeffmeneely
(Degree In Progress) on May 26, 2009
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I am in the Organizational Management BA program, and have found that online education is a matter of focus. You get what you put into it. I have attended Ashford for several years now without a single issue, and do not understand all of the communication issues noted in the other posts. The online process requires YOUR focus and attention, and above average ability to listen, comprehend written materials, and to ask questions when uncertain. I have called Ashford several times to clarify situations, and have always found them responsive and helpful. I would (and have) recommend them to other potential students, and am thinking about them for my MBA. Good luck in your studies and your search for a school.
Continuing Post below:
Organizational Management
Reviewer: miagirllost
(Degree In Progress) on May 22, 2009
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I’ve since transferred to the local university, who accepted all my credits EXCEPT Ashford’s. I’ll be graduating this fall rather than summer because of this. However, I do agree with the University’s decision that the classes at Ashford are just not at the same level as most US Universities. Now, I have been receiving calls and letters saying, I owe $2011.00. I spoke to a Financial Aid officer at Ashford, who refused to send me an invoice. When I said I would not speak to her without one, she hung up. I called her again and once I questioned her as to why the Academic Advisor registered me for a course if I owed money, she hung up. I was never informed about the first balance. It clearly states in the student handbook, students are not allowed to register if there is a balance. Please note: Your academic advisor is the only person who can register or drop you. You yourself can’t do this, which makes it possible for your Academic Advisor to register you for courses without consent as well as driving up balances you may not know exist. I have called Ashford University 20 times in last two days and no one is willing to send me the exact date and courses. I have emails stating I would be receiving financial aid. I do not know why I owe these people money. I have already made a report with the Better Business Bureau, as well as the US Dept. of Education’s Office of Inspector. I hope something will be done to stop Ashford from taking advantage of people who just want an education, while misrepresenting and lying about Federal Aid. I for one believe Federal Aid for this school should stop in hopes of steering people far away from this school.
Please Read....
Organizational Management
Reviewer: miagirllost
(Degree In Progress) on May 22, 2009
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This school is a total scam. I was told Financial Aid would cover my classes; I even received a disbursement check from the school. I decided to leave the school. The information in all courses I took was very vague and not at a university level. Every course is formatted the same: 6 discussion posts a week, a quiz, a 2-3 page essay due in the 2nd week, a draft of research paper due in week 3 and the final 8-10 page research paper at the end of each 5 week course. The lack of individuality in the courses will get to you. I didn’t find class discussions to be thought provoking. I ended up appreciating and missing the “traditional” classroom settings. I found the research papers to be a total waste of time since 5 weeks is not enough time to gather research and write a real scholarly work of substance. If Ashford thinks writing a research makes them a University, they are sadly mistaken. I transferred to Ashford with 90 credits, just so I could work full time and help my parents during this recession. I was three classes away from graduating, when I made the decision to pursue a Master’s degree once I was done. After sitting with an advisor at my local university and showing them the course syllabuses, it was apparent my courses at Ashford had no academic merit and admission into the graduate program was unlikely.
ASHFORD UNIVERSITY SCAM
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on May 20, 2009
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Ashford University is a moneymaking scams university. The faculty and staff members call you 24/7 until they get you to sign up for all of these courses and apply for loans that you know nothing about. Then they stop being concern. The help and phone calls stop. They drop you like a bad habit. Stay away from that school.
BAD BAD BAD BAD BAD
Business Administration
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on May 19, 2009
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CAREFULL I TRIED TO CANCEL MY CLASSES AS OF THE THIRD WEEK BY LOGGING IN AND AND SEEING HOW TO DO IT DUE TO I DIDN'T WANT TO ATTEND THAT SCHOOL IN I GOT STUCK PAYING 801.00 SO THEN I SET UP A PAYMENT PLAIN WITH THEM AND WOW THE TOOK MY CHECKS AT ASHFROD AND CASHED THEM , BUT THEY ALSO TURNED ME IN TO A COLLECTION AGENCY'S.. SO BE CARE FULL THEY REALLY DON'T CARE ABOUT YOU JUST YOUR MONEY OVERPRICED ON LINE SCHOOL.!!!!!!!THESE PEOPLE ARE BAD
In debt with a useless degree
Organizational Management
Reviewer: drachefyre
(Degree In Progress) on May 16, 2009
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Financial Aid: Haven't had much trouble with them. They have been more than helpful in assisting me open several high-interest college loans to pay for these courses, forcing me to find a high-paying job after graduation or watch my hard-earned credit score plummet as the loans default. The B.A. Degree: I was facing a tenuous situation and my newly-appointed Ashford advisor said all the right things to me, that my nearly-completed B.A. in Cell Biology would transfer and within a year I would be graduating with a strong degree in leadership and biology. He lied. An academic advisor with the institution I am planning to enroll for my M.S. degree has said that my degree is worthless in the sciences, and only a small miracle on the GRE General and GRE Biology can save me if I want to pursue a M.S. degree in Cell Biology. He suggested I drop out and take courses at the local Community College as they would be more relevant. Just Great.
Think carefully before wasting your student loan $
Business Administration
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on May 16, 2009
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I made the choice to enroll at Ashford to complete my degree in Business. My first class was great but my second class was taught by a professor who ruled with an iron fist, had control issues, didn't communicate clearly unless it benefited him, and quite frankly was terse with words and rude. I got my first grade from him and I immediately withdrew. In state tuition here costs 1/3 of what Ashford was charging me for an overrated professor who didn't care "1" ounce about me. I hope they enjoy the thousand bucks I spent because it will be the last dime they ever get from me.
Aswesome
Business Administration
Reviewer: telco4me
(Degree In Progress) on May 14, 2009
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I did actually compare the costs of Tuition. I spoke with enrollment advisors at other schools. Kaplan wanted ridiculous amounts as well as the popular Phoenix. I am amazed at the support, because I did not realize online would be so interactive. I did transfer most of my credits (they actually took care of that for me) and I just have to log on and complete my assignments. I have only positive things to say, as well as my friends that I referred.
Stay away...
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on May 13, 2009
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I wanted to finish of my degree I had started in the 80's and decided on Ashford. My enrollment guy was as nice as they came. Very supportive, told me everything I wanted the hear. Promised me they would transfer 60 of my credis and add potentially 33 more for extra work I had completed. They did a pre-evaluation on my transcripts and said I'm accepted and in the program. They then said it would take a couple of weeks to finalize the credit transfer. Funny enough the calls stopped from the enrollment guy as did the emails. I might further add I had started a course and had invested many hours into reading and other assesments not to mention books and shipping costs. Then I get a call from the matriculation officer only to find out the pre-evaluation was done incorrectly and I had on 56 credits to transfer and that made me not meet the standards for acceptance to Ashford. So, they basically kicked me out. I asked if they would accept my HS transcript along with my 56 credits and they refused due to it being from Canada. They said I needed to send my HS transcript to a outside evaluation service (at a cost of $300) for them to approve it was real. The enrollolment guy never bothered to call to apologize or discuss the problem. They had no interest in trying to resolve the issue and cast me aside with nothing more than a "sorry about that" from the matriculation officer. The net net for anyone considering Ashford is this...they will tell you what you are looking to hear and promise you everything. They are your best friends calling twice a day and emailing supportive comments etc. They promised me the moon and delivered the sky. Total over promise and under deliver group of people. The courses are expensive and the online department is based in California making it hard to talk to them before 11am if you live on the east coast. Finally, they owe me money for books and shipping I now cant use and have not had any refund or promise of a refund. If you are looking for a school that will help or admit when they have made a mistake Ashford is not for you. Be very careful on what school you funally decide on. Once trust is broken and they lie to you its hard to ever take them seriously on anything.
Satisfied Student at Ashford
Social Science/Education
Reviewer: mlvogeler
(Degree In Progress) on May 13, 2009
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I have been attending Ashford University since last August. I love it and anyone who says negative things about this school needs to try another option. It is perfect for someone who works full time as you can work at your own pace as long as you get the assignments. I will graduate next March with my Bachelor's degree and plan on getting my Master's after that. When I first enrolled, my advisor was very helpful. She walked me through the process step by step. She was available for questions at anytime I needed. The professors I have had have been very helpful and understanding about life's issues. I would recommend Ashford University to anyone who was thinking about attending online classes. I am absolutely 100% satisfied with Ashford.
i agree
MBA
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Graduate) on May 12, 2009
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horrible xperience, totally blew it going to this school. advisors tryed to be my friends, did not ever answer my questions. I made the mistake of believing i would be able to get a degree in 18 months, never thought about quality of degree. younger brother is going the comm college route b/c it's less and instruction is more detailed and thorough.
Stay the h**l away from this school
MBA
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on May 10, 2009
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Please listen to what I have to say and tell anyone thinking about enrolling in an Ashford MBA about what I've been forced to put up with. The process from the time I was contacted by an enrollment adviser was too streamlined for me to feel comfortable. I could not believe how easy this person was making everything sound. He called me 2 times everyday and harassed my wife and sister. I thought I would give Ashford a try, and paid my enrollment fee. The enrollment adviser was unreachable and when I spoke to his boss, I was spoken to like some kind of idiot. I only decided to stick with my program b/c I couldn't get my money back. The classes are a joke. I could learn more watching the news and looking things up online. After several months of refusing to quit the program, b/c I didn't want to waste the money I'd already spent, the enrollment adviser contacted me and actually asked me to purchase the company's stock! What a joke! I am gplanning to write complaints about the enrollment adviser and his supervisor to the company and the Better Business Bureau. As for the quality of instruction.... you must be kidding if you think I'm going to even dignify it by giving any kind of constructive criticism. Now I'm tens of thousands of dollars in debt, and I've been taught nothing. Someday, if I'm charged with the task of hiring at my company, the last thing I'd do is hire and MBA grad from Ashford. This program is bush league.
Doing My Thing at Ashford
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on May 8, 2009
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I have been a student at Ashford since March 2007. I am pursuing a BA in Organizational Management. From the beginining to this point I have not had any problems that have not been resolved in a timely manner. The Advisors check in with me from time to time to discuss my progress and to inquire if I need anything. I was initially very nervous about returning to school, but Ashford has made the transition easy and comforting. Ashford accepted my credits and I am well on my way. I would and have recommended Ashford to my friends and family. You will get out what you put in. I have had health and family issues that cause me to not put out my best work, but my advisors and my professors worked with me and I am back on track and will be back on the Dean's List before you know it. GO SAINTS!!
Good stuff
Organizational Management
Reviewer: keithky
(Degree In Progress) on May 7, 2009
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I have nothing to say but good things about Ashford University. When I began enrollment proc. They recognized and honored my education and training I recieved in the military (44crd) training. They allowed me to earn my major credit hrs. before taking core reqs. I began in Aug. 07,I will grad in May 2010 w/ BA in Org. Mgmt. Best Choice I could have made. I have only seen one not so good review from some person who sounded like a quitter. You will never be satisfied if all you do is quit when the "perfect teacher" is not your teacher, or upset because one school will not honor another schools credits (If the two schools do not have a matriculation agreement between each other,they are not required to honor any crd. reccommendations from anyone.)
Just Graduated Two Weeks Ago- An Honest Review
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: kmcurrie
(Graduate) on May 4, 2009
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As a recent graduate of this university, there are some great things to report and there are only one or two items, which are less than positive. Let's get the bad stuff out of the way first. If for any reason you are scheduled for a class titled Man dependance on the environment, demand another class. This so called class is the biggest joke, and waste of money I have ever seen. You are required to purchase a book, which you can get for free online. The class is nothing more than the same topic expressed every week. Oh and let's not forgot the mindless online lab (50.00 you will never get back) It's rare I would ever say a class is worthless, since I believe all education is valuable, but this class is a waste. Additionally it takes seven weeks to get any money back from your student loans. There is no reason any school should take this long to refund YOUR money. After all some students are living off their loans, and can not wait seven weeks. Now we have this out of the way, my overall experience has been pretty great! The professors generally care about their students, and want them to succeed. I have made many friends, both in the student body and staff. I would highly recommend this school. However, I will offer this suggestion. Be sure to give yourself enough time on the written assignments.
My First Course...and I love it!
AA Business
Reviewer: airforcefighter2004
(Degree In Progress) on April 28, 2009
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Great School. Amazing support. Worth every cent for a regionally accredited establishment. Very kind, understanding staff. Involved. Challenging...you will learn. Credits will transfer to almost any college should you choose to transfer. Apply!!!!!!!
Very happy graduate
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: gander3402
(Graduate) on April 28, 2009
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Overall, I am extremely satisfied with the quality of my education at Ashford, and feel a high level of school spirit. I will graduate on May 9, 2009, and am a new member of Alpha Sigma Lambda. I worked hard and took nothing for granted. I was well-pleased with the materials and the Blackboard learning platform. Discussion board postings were interesting and engaging. My classmates were always respectful to me, a much older person. I believe I have achieved a treasured goal in life, as I did not have the opportunity to go to college sooner. Thanks to Ashford and its staff and faculty for everything.
Your success is up to you!!!
Healthcare Administration
Reviewer: usalters
(Graduate) on April 24, 2009
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This school and program really worked for me. As a career changer, I gained a wealth of knowledge about the Healthcare field from a management prosepctive. There will be classes and instructors that you don't like, but you would be hard pressed to find a school where that isn't the case. Other than the price, the deciding factor for me was the regional accreditation which is hugely important for anyone considering graduate school. The bottom line is you only get out of it what you put into it. I will not be persuing my graduate degree from Ashford only because the program is not CAHME accreditated (no online programs are), which is important at the graduate level.
Quality Education
Business Administration
Reviewer: golfchop
(Degree In Progress) on April 20, 2009
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After reading most of the reviews I found that the negative reviews were either ex employees or people who have had trouble with financial aid. I have gone to school on campus to get my associates degree and beyond and switched to Ashford to complete my Bachelors degree. Anybody who says they are giving away degrees here has some sort of agenda against the school. I put in more hours of work in my classes here than I ever did at my traditional college and I also find that the closer you get to your degree the better quality of students I find in my classes. I have had only one instructor that was mediocre and the rest were excellent. After reading the negative reviews the first question I asked myself is how many of these people have a personal issue with the school that was their own fault. I am sure that there are some legitimate complaints but I have nothing but excellent service here. I do feel that I am getting a quality education but I am working hard for it. And for those who say an online degree is not a real degree, what do they say to people who attend traditional universities but attend some classes online which they all offer now. Is there degree from UCLA or NYU not a real degree online is the future of education and will only get better. One last thing anyone who says they were denied for financial aid it was their own fault the only way you are denied is because you did not pay back previous financial aid and they know going into school whether they had previous loans and if they paid them on time.
Ashford University 3 units in 5 weeks
Social Science/Education
Reviewer: brianlourich
(Degree In Progress) on April 20, 2009
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I have attended Pepperdine University, Cal State Northridge, U.C. Santa Cruz, Pasadena City College, and Cal Tech. Ashford is selling degrees without really teaching a whole lot. I pay about $400 per unit and finish 3 units every 5 weeks. The work that I put into it is minimal (less than 20 total hours per class)and I have gotten all A's and one B+. You have to by the textbooks printed for Ashford. Academically, this university is a joke but I will have my degree soon and they did accept all my old units towards my general ed. requirements.
I had a problem with the weekly quizzes and getting answers wrong even when I showed my teacher the textbook answer. One teacher changed my score and another teacher said no. I called to complain and suddenly no one was calling me (enrollment advisers call a lot when you first enroll) back. I tried leaving messages and emails and after 3 weeks I finally found out how to complain. For the money that I am paying, I don't think that I am getting a very good education but at this point in my life (46 years old) I don't care. I just want my degree ASAP. Many colleagues don't even know what colleagues mean.
Ashford University is WONDERFUL!
Business Administration
Reviewer: mrscuevas2
(Degree In Progress) on April 19, 2009
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I dont understand all the negative review, but then I sat down and thought about it. Online schooling is not for everyone. There's a lot of people that really need to have a phyiscal school to go to, just like there's people out there that cannot work from home. They need that structure and for someone to tell them what to do and when to do it. I am now in my 6th class at Ashford and it's not at all easy. I currently have a 3.93 average and it's really hard to continue that. Everything is not as easy as people may think. Yes, the tests are open book, great, but the written assignments arent just given to you, neither is the discussion posts. I noticed that most people on here that are complaining were only with the school for like a month or so. I havent had a problem at all with my financial aid. I receive my stip-end exactly when I am supposed to with no problem. I have been very pleased with this school and once I am done with my Associates Degree I am going on to my Bachlors and my Masters. I really enjoy this school.
9 classes in...
Organizational Management
Reviewer: mick1969
(Degree In Progress) on April 18, 2009
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5 months ago I shared my thoughts on Ashford...I am now 4 more classes into this venture (9 over all), and very glad I chose to stick around. Very military friendly, and I actually feel like I've learned a few things. If you want to earn a college degree, and you don't have the time that is required for a traditional setting, I highly consider Ashford. I'm not sure if I will pursue a Masters through Ashford, but ONLY because accelerated courses are very demanding.
Excellent Choice
Organizational Management
Reviewer: clwz28
(Degree In Progress) on April 16, 2009
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After reading many reviews for online classes, I came to realize that all colleges receive a mixture of reviews, both positive and negative. Those who struggle in class seem to be the ones who scream the loudest about the integrity of the college they are bashing, often refering to the school as a diploma mill. Let me set the record straight. Whether at a brick and mortar campus or an online classroom, you get out of your educational experience what you put into it. I have been enrolled at Ashford for one year, and will be graduating March of 2010. I currently hold a 3.97 GPA, but I will tell you that this is not a cake walk. On average, I put in approximately 20 hours per week to maintain this average. When grades are posted, a class average for each assignment is posted so you may gage your accomplishments to that of your peers. Let me tell you that not every classmate does this well. For example, on our latest writing assignment, the class average was 6.16 points out of a possible 10, I scored much higher than the average, but this speaks volumes to my statement of you get out of it what you put into it. I have found all but one of my classes to be challenging, and the instructors are always posting questions to students Blackboard disscussions, pressing them to explore further. Ashford is a quality school, that is accredited. If you are serious about learning, not looking for a free pass, Ashford is an excellent choice.
Excellent School
MBA
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on April 10, 2009
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I am so insulted by some of the negative reviews that I have read about Ashford. I am in my second class with Ashford and have found that I am learning a lot, the course work is challenging, and I still have my enrollment advisor calling to check and make sure that everything is going okay. Before I started with Ashford, I read a lot of reviews both positive and negative. The negative ones made me question whether I should start with them, but now I am so glad that I did. I realize now that a lot of the people who wrote negative reviews must have been too dumb to pass the classes or didn't know how to use a computer very well. Don't let those idiots sway you from getting ahead in the world by earning a degree. For those of you like me who have a full-time job, kids, and everything else going on, Ashford is a really good choice. The good thing about Ashford is that you can wait until everyone is asleep to work on your schoolwork; it works around your schedule to a degree. I haven't been to any of the other on-line schools but I know that Ashford is a really good one so I highly recommend it! Thanks. PS: A very good enrollment advisor is Trevor Atchley.
Ashford is a great school!
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: crawfords47
(Degree In Progress) on April 4, 2009
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I am a single mom. When initially signing up I almost backed out. I thought no way I can complete my degree on-line this cannot be legit? I am so glad with a little help from my advisor- and yes I am sure they get commission so what! I am on my sixth class it is really fantastic. You have to work hard to get a good education, nobody will hold your hand. I hate attending classes and don't have to deal with annoying people that keep you late because they never stop talking etc...Seriously I love Ashford and feel the decision will be life changing. This is a great school and I am not an employee just a nervous single mom with the same worries as anyone else. So if your considering Ashford go for it don't listen to negative comments. Nothing will always run perfectly smooth no matter what you do. Thank you Ashley for being a wonderful advisor and always promt! I think most prof. at Ashford are great Ionly had one that was so so. But in a class setting you get one in the bunch . So enough said JUST-DO-IT. Thanks Ashford.. I Love technology!!! Andrea C.. CT
Don't Waste Your Money!
Business Administration
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on April 3, 2009
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I found this to be a complete waste of time and money. I felt the classes were useless and extremely expensive in proportion to what was taught. It wouldn't be so bad if I felt I had learned something meaningful. Honestly, how much can you expect to learn with a semester crammed into 5 weeks, minimal instructor feedback and sub-standard learning materials. The constant 10 page term paper writing was tedious and worthless. Don't get me wrong - I have nothing against putting forth effort for my education but a term paper every five weeks even for an Information Technologies class is ridiculous. When I decided to downgrade my program from a Bachelor's in BA to an Associate's, they tried to get me to take a class almost identical to one I had already finished. It was simply named differently but the synopsis was virtually the same. I had to petition the registrar to get it transferred. The approved it but after all that they never did change my degree program. An administrative oversight apparently. It was at this point that I started to feel that I was being shammed. Their customer service is mediocre at best and somewhat juvenile. Getting questions answered or problems solved can take weeks. Their financial aid department is a joke. Ashford University is a business - not a place for higher learning. They are in it strictly for the money! Don't waste your time or get into debt with financial aid and have nothing meaningful to show for it. Take the time and go to your local j.c. or university. You'll be a much better person for it!
Enjoying My Experience Thus Far
Organizational Management
Reviewer: clarkjs
(Degree In Progress) on April 2, 2009
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I have only completed the mandatory introductory course; PSY 202, as well as one course within my major, and I am basing my evaluation soley on these two courses and the interaction I have had with my various advisors. I have given Ashford an overall rating of 8.5. I feel that they have met all of my expectations thus far, but a 9 or 10 rating is reserved for exceeding all expectations. The materials used by Ashford are the same texts that are used by a traditional university. they do have a few "custom" texts, however I think the only thing "custom" is the Ashford logo on the cover. The content of the books appears to be exactly the same as any other non-custom text. The teachers, for the most part appear to be experts in their fields. I only had minimal interaction with any of the teachers, I did however interact with the teaching assistant. All of my emails or Blackboard postings to either of the instructors, were answered in a reasonable time. The grades were posted on a consistant basis, and constructive feedback was provided for all papers that I was required to write. I feel that the institution rating feeds back to the overall rating of "8". I have rated the support a perfect "10". I have called or emailed my enrollment, accademic, and financial advisor more than 15 times for various reasons. Each and every time I received a response from them within 1-3 hours. They appear to be very accessible and haven't made a habit of "passing the buck" if my question or issue wasn't their particular area of work. As for value, I have rated Ashford a "10". I am a Military student using the Montgomery GI Bill. My books are provided by a Military grant and my tution is $750 per course regardless of the level (upper or lower). The course cost, along with the support functions make this school an extremely good value for me as a Military student. Being that Ashford is an online school, of course they are using technology. I don't see them using more or less than any other school, and I rate them an "8" Taking my experiences into consideration I would reccomend Ashford Universtiy to anyone seeking an online BA.
Ashford graduate
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Graduate) on April 1, 2009
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I chose Ashford because it was the simplest online psychology program that I could find through my research. I'd had a spotty academic past and they were able to sift through my years of random classes and use it all for general education requirements. I only had to take three general ed class, and the rest of my classes were in my major. Also, I was able to take two classes every five weeks (it was not easy) and complete my all of my major classes in one year, start to finish. I was able to finish my degree (finally!) while staying home with my young son. It was not easy, I had to work very hard to get mostly A's. Just like every other school there were some really crappy teachers, and some really great ones. It was a great program for what I needed. I was also highly motivated and I zipped through the program with no problems.
No reason to lie! Ashford has been great for me
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on April 1, 2009
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I love this school! My husband is in the military and we have to move allot. Unlike allot of people who are complaining I have done my homework. I shopped around and this was the best by far. I can not believe that some people expect to pay community college prices at a regionally accredited university! I do admit that the books can be a little pricey on a tight budget, but just buy them somewhere else. I don't know but I do have a great advisor and my FA advisor was great as well. I am now in my 12th class and almost a college graduate (I already had a lot of credits)! My advisor still calls me to see if I need anything and to let me know that she has been tracking my progress. If you are angry please do not ruin it for others. As long as you take care of your responsibilities such as paper work etc., there should not be any problems. There are other schools that charge 50k for an AA degree. I am not saying the school is perfect but so far so good. While other people are complaining I will be moving on to my MBA! Good luck to those who are serious about their education!College is not for everybody.
Seeking out another University
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on March 30, 2009
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My initial contact with AU was quite pleasant, my enrollment advisor kept in contact until I was settled in my class. And she did follow-up after being in class awhile. My advisors has changed about three times and financial advisor twice. All of this essay writing is absurb. English I understand but, the rest of these classes unnecessary. This is my 5th class and I have yet to take a class that is remotely close to my major. Lastely, they are now dictating how and when you receive your loan disbursements. 30% after 7 weeks and the remainder in 14 weeks. There claim is if you have to withdraw then you will not be liable for the amount you have spent. Who signed the loan agreement? It sure wasn't Ashford, so what gives. The books thats another issue - I thought I was finished. The buyback is a joke and too expensive for paperback. Why not just continue to post the chapters and read from the computer. $900.00 for technical support, RIP OFF!!!!!! If anyone knows of another University that is pretty descent let me know.
Ashford University????
Organizational Management
Reviewer: maepolingp
(Degree In Progress) on March 23, 2009
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Ashford university tends to use high pressure sells techniques. For example, the tell you they will transfer up to 99 hrs, get you in before they evaluate your transcripts, then will only accept 66 hrs. They also try to get you enrolled and in class before your financial aid is approved. This can be very stressful. I feel they are not completely honest. My acedemic advisor is very rude and condesending. I hate to even talk to her. They will tell you anything to get you enrolled, then out come the fangs.The classes are ok, I have completed three so far. One teacher was great. The other two might as well not even bother. Like "what teacher?" Looking to transfer, but is there anything better out there as far as online schools go?
Could be worse!
Business Administration
Reviewer: mdibacco21
(Degree In Progress) on March 20, 2009
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I have been at Ashford since October 2007. I am 40 credit into my degree with another 80 to go. There are positives and negatives to the school. I like that it is online. I like that some of the instructors are willing to work with deadlines when you show you are willing to work hard. The negatives are that some of the books are a bit pricey and the buyback is usually not worth it. The other negative is that you basically have to write an 8-10 page paper for the "final" in each class. I would much rather take a test then write a paper for some of these classes. I understand having to write a paper in an English class, but in an environmental science class a test would be sufficient! Some classes have more instructor interaction then other. I can totally respect that since most of the instructors have families and full time jobs just like the students. I haven't had too much interaction with my advisors, so I can't say if they are good or bad. The few times i've emailed my financial advisor she has gotten back to me within 24 hours which is acceptable to me. So far everything that has happened was exactly what I expected and what they promised. After being rejected the prior year by Colorado Technical University because I couldn't get any student loans, it was nice to find a place that would work with me to help me obtain the dream of a degree.
Ashford Advisors pfft!
Healthcare Administration
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on March 15, 2009
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First I'll start by saying Ashford advisors are a joke! The classes are OK, so far. The financial advisor is rude, will not return emails, answer phone, or give call backs. By the way her name is Erin Murphy, if you eroll request someone else or you will be unsatisfied. The enrollment advisor, calls you almost daily, sends emails like a spammer, and lies. I was looking for a degree in Natural Health. This college doesn't even offer it. The enrollment advisor told me, since they are "cheapest", I should possibly get my general education done then transfer. Well a load of crap in itself, they enroll me in classes that are, well, a 5th grader can get straight A's in. Then a "Film" class, stating that is an English class. I requested that I not take it and get something else.. She was then rude saying it was mandatory for a degree... Since then, she stopped the email spamming, won't answer her phone, etc. Finally I got through to her. She had the nerve to say, she seen me calling but was on the phone with other students. OK, so that verifies they have caller ID. The 3 days I tried calling practically every hour on the hour, she was on the other line? I doubt it.. I believe her and the enrollment advisor was laughing at me for obviously making a fool of myself calling so much. The classes are not that challenging! If you want an easy 3.5-4.0 this would be the school. Make sure you have extra funds for tylenol, you will need it. All I have to say, if you have another option, PLEASE TAKE IT!
Environmental Engineering SCAM
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: mylabelles
(Degree In Progress) on March 10, 2009
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I have worked in Environmental Engineering for more than 22 years. When I started there was no degree in this field. Now I would like to have a piece of paper saying what I know. It only took one course to find out this is nothing more than a milking house. My initial adviser was excellent. He hunted me down for weeks and said everything I needed to hear in regards to finishing college. He was able to squeeze me into a class that had already started. This is when the problems started. I couldn't order books because the deadline was passed. So I had no books. They redid their website and it gave me several problems. Here is a quick list: I could not easily long into classes. I could not find a password from my professor to log into a writing lab center. Emails and phone calls were ignored. Bad professor. There are several logins through out the school. I would have to say that I needed help on every set up of login, because it was hard and changed for each login area. They say it is that way for safety reasons. You can email fellow students and find out that several of them have the same problems. We helped each other out because our professor was only a screen name and not a touchable responsive person. They said I would have to pay ZERO for school and grants or fee waivers would be given to cover costs. Sounds to good to be true. It was. They sell you this program of free and send a big dog collection agency after you are locked out college for not continuing courses. Mind you that they lock you out. I was told by my financial adviser on several occasions that FASFA would pick up the bill. This adviser is very slow in returning calls, but will respond to emails same day. This is good if you are online 24/7. To get my information for financial papers he would call like clock work. Once enrolled that all stopped. DON"T BE FOOLED BY some of these posts. There is a good chance that some of these positive posts are employees. They require employees to take courses of study from their University. My degree is not available from the college. Once again, they will say anything to sell you on college. I need to stop there because I have on touched the tip of an iceberg. My suggestions would be to seek local State Colleges and Universities before using Ashford. Even with out books and an absent professor I got a "B" or better on Quizes. It is easy, but requires time. To bad they are dishonest and put some of that blame back on you as a student.
ADVISORS ARE CRAP
Healthcare Administration
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on March 9, 2009
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They told my stepdaughter (with a D- Average in High School) that she could get her B.A. in health care administration and could be a CEO of a Hospital in just 4 years. That is total Bull S__T. The advisors there need to be a little more careful in advising ANYONE that they could achieve this lofty goal in so little a time frame, especially with someone who has no education in the first place to achieve ANYTHING like this.
Ashford is Great!!!!!
MBA
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on March 4, 2009
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I am currently enrolled in Ashford University. My enrollment counselor was extremely involved with my first few classes, helping me to become acclimated to the University. Since then, my academic counselor keeps me up-to-date on everything I need to know. The classes are awesome. The discussion boards, for the most part, are challenging and stimulating. The program definitely ramps up after the first few classes, but it is definitely doable. I disagree with anyone who feels Ashford is a diploma mill. While I am maintaining a 4.0, it is very difficult. The information covered in the coursework has improved my understanding of management principles, which helped me to become a better manager. I would recommend Ashford University to anyone who is serious about getting an advanced degree, but doesn’t have time to attend a traditional university. The only caution I would give is that you need to have excellent writing skills or you will not do well.
I like this school!
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: clickfold2004
(Degree In Progress) on March 2, 2009
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I have been at Ashford for almost one year and I love it there. I like their online format, no group projects, no 'scheduled' times to be online...it's been a wonderful experience for me. The classes are great, most of the instructors are great, but it can be hit-or-miss. Sometimes you get instructors who are more 'hands-on' which is what I prefer. I've worked my butt off to maintain a GPA, and these classes aren't 'cake' by any means. You do have to work, you write two papers for each class, you have discussion prompts that really make you think... I've not had a problem with my financial aid (knock on wood) but it has only been a year. I've never had a hard time getting in touch with anyone at the university, be it financial aid people, my academic advisor, or even my enrollment advisor. I do look elsewhere for books, mainly Amazon or half.com, but there is also a blog put together by a lovely lady where people post what they want or need for VERY good prices. Blackboard is neat, also. There was a period where it was out for an unexpectedly long time and extra time was given after Blackboard was fixed to turn in assignments. I've never had a problem with Blackboard going out that hasn't either been quickly fixed or that I haven't been given additional time to turn in my assignments. So far, I have not had a problem at all with Ashford. The classes have been tough, but not to the point where they are impossible to pass, just enough to challenge you. I would recommend Ashford and I have. I've never been bothered for referrals, either.
Uncertain but motivated.....
Healthcare Administration
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on February 26, 2009
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My review ratings are in the middle of the road mearly because I am a new student here at AU. My advisor--Jennifer G. is awesome. She has been helpful and I do hope I am making a wise choice with AU. This is totally different than anything I have ever done before, JG expressed an example to me saying its the same material that you would learn in a brick and mortar classroom, only in the privacy of your own home. True that. I'm still in my pj's drinking coffee! Thank you Jennifer G. (made you smile!)
Financial Aid Nightmare
Healthcare Administration
Reviewer: barnestnk
(Degree In Progress) on February 25, 2009
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I enrolled in July 2008 with the help of an amazing enrollment advisor Jerell Lieberknecht who has helped me in areas that were not his own. My classes are easy enough,but the Financial AId process is a nightmare! The FA advisor I had never returned my calls, or emails. the customer service hotline did not know anything. They changed the process after I got my first disbursement, and now its the 7/14 rule, which is really not what it says it is because it takes them longer than seven or forteen weeks to get the refund to you, and had I known this when I first started I may have attended another school. I am still hanging in there until I can do better. I was so happy with Ashford when I first started that I got a lot of people to enroll and now we are just waiting on a better opportunity before we withdraw because we all have the same useless advisor who we have all complained about numerous times, and still no change.
Great, for the right person.
Organizational Management
Reviewer: ryangapen
(Degree In Progress) on February 24, 2009
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I have been attending Ashford for about 2 years. I started out going for my degree in Organizational Management, and later added a second degree in business administration. I will admit that the school has some drawbacks, but it's worth the time. The academic advisors have changed a few times for me, and there have been some miscommunications, just like other schools. The only difference is that when I had an issue I didn’t have to wait in line for a half hour, I just sent an e-mail and waited a day to hear back. For someone that is a self starter, I would highly recommend this school. You don't have to listen to boring lectures, and you can join in with the class at just about any time. I have had professors from several great schools such as MIT, and Yale. I would not have had an experience like this at any other school. I was not the best student before, but after trying school online, I will never go back. If I get tired, and want to check out of class, I can. And if I wake up at 3am and want to go to school, I can. This has boosted my motivation, and I continuously want to do better. I have a GPA of 3.84 right now, and I am very proud because I worked very hard for it. Plus my tying skills have improved dramatically. I was able to side step my career to something that is far less labor intensive, and I am doing better than I ever have. It’s really hard to sum up Ashford in a few paragraphs. What I can say is that if you are a self starter, then you will do well here, but don’t expect it to be a cake walk.
So Far So Good
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: tfrink785
(Degree In Progress) on February 23, 2009
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So far I have not had many issues with Ashford. I am a very persistent person and I love a good battle. The first issue I had with the school was regarding my transfer credits. They told me X number of credits would transfer but then changed it when my review was complete and I had already taken two classes. I politely found the current person to speak to about my credit and got that issue taken care of. I was charged the wrong amount but contacted the financial aid office and got that taken care of. I was due a refund check and I felt that it was taking longer than expected, so I phoned financial aid back and within the week I had my balance. I think the object with any school or business in life is to be persistent and take the extra steps to resolve an issue. No one is perfect and like every school, there are flaws. You either want an education or you don't and you either are going to buckle down and complete your degree or continue to complain and use it as an excuse for not completing your education. Be adults and either get ready for school or continue to complain about everything.
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Organizational Management
Reviewer: schumacher.ak
(Degree In Progress) on February 23, 2009
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The Good: An acclerated program. At Ashford your writing will improve, the curriculum is geared toward writing papers of modest length, using multiple sources for content. Two to 3 papers are due for every 5 week course. The weekly quizzes account for 20% of the overall grade, they're open book, and even if you don't do the assigned reading you can still do well enough on the quizzes. The Bad: You are required to write two 300 word posts every week, and respond to a minimum of four posts. Everyone typically gets 80% to 100% credit for posting - regardless of quality - and sometimes the quality can be pretty poor. Just write something, anything, and you'll get credit. The Ugly: Pretty much everyone passes. Just pay the money and show up.
I guess even reviews have yeng and yang
Social Science/Education
Reviewer: zmdo2
(Degree In Progress) on February 18, 2009
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I have been reading the other reviews and I just want to go on the record as saying that so far Ashford has been a pleasant experience. I have had no more trouble with financial aid than I did with the b&m school I attended and transitioning from one class to another is a breeze. You order your books in a timely manner and start. And to the individuals that said that no one would return their calls all I can say is that I have never had that problem. As far as the Blackboard going down....hasn't happened yet(except for scheduled times) My advisors and teachers have been very accessable. I think some of the people writing the reviews are either bitter because something didn't go their way or they think they might get something for free if they yell loud enough. For me Ashford is as perfect as any large institution can get.
Great Experience!
Organizational Management
Reviewer: pinheads1
(Graduate) on February 15, 2009
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I had always planned on going back to school and finishing my Bachelors degree as I dropped out of a community college after completing 66 units due to financial issues. Well, at the age of 50 I did so and chose Ashford U. after researching several other colleges (both on-line and traditional). My advisor got me started (first class in March, 2006) and I took out a couple of student loans to initially pay my tuition. Everything went smoothly for me. The classes were challenging and, as in any school, some instructors were better than others but none were poor. I found that my e-mails and phone calls were responded to in a timely manner and the instructors were willing to work with their students when issues arose. Again, as in any school, there were students who took issue with grades, complained when they were late with assignments and lost points or didn't purchase the text and expected to receive an A. Let's face it; you get out what you put into your academic career regardless of where you study and on-line classes take discipline as it is up to the individual to succeed or fail. I graduated on June 30, 2008 with a degree in Organizational Management (suma cum laude) and within a month received a promotion at work. Though I spent many a morning and hours on weekends studying, researching and writing papers, it was all worth it. Quite frankly, I miss the interactions and challenges of the classroom but it is nice to be able to surf in the mornings again! I feel that Ashford U. was a great experience and I am very glad that I chose this school to fulfill my goal of obtaining my BA.
Happy with my education at Ashford
Organizational Management
Reviewer: songsack
(Degree In Progress) on February 14, 2009
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I used to make instrument cases, but the money was not very good. I attended Ashford for better than a year. I loved the learning experience. There was only one Professor I didn’t like and that was because we seemed to have a personality conflict. In general, each of my professors responded quickly to my questions and I was very pleased with my education. During the time I was attending I was on the Dean’s list every time it came out. I worked hard and did my best with every course. There were some of my classmate’s posts that I did not reply to, because they did not have good writing ability. It disturbed me when they could not spell and had poor punctuation. Ashford professors take everything into consideration when they give grade points. Using the proper APA format to cite the reading materials and research is another important factor in making the grade. I was confused with how to use this format and wish that my advisor had placed me into an English class first so that I would have had a better grasp of it. However, I took the initiative asked questions and quickly figured it out. If someone really wants a degree at a top notch university, I would recommend this school.
Great.... but.... :-\
Organizational Management
Reviewer: ladyhelgaofmeridell
(Degree In Progress) on February 13, 2009
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I have been attending Ashford since July of 07, and i have been enjoying the classes, they are challenging, yet exciting. My only problem i have with Ashford is that their "elite corps of advisors" are as knowledgeable as Gomer Pyle. I have gone through a few academic advisors and as many financial aid advisors as Murphy brown had secretaries. The amount of communication that goes on between departments is non-existent. i am currently in my 16th class and dont have another class scheduled because they havent recieved financial aid documents that have pretzeled my college term permenently. starting out with the "no problem" financial aid spiele, and ending in a financial aid nightmare leading me and my husband to elope early to ease financial aid. though its taken a YEAR for the changes to take effect. if anybody from ashford calls looking for any sort of document, take my advice: faxing is a waste of time, find a scanner and scan the files on your computer and send it to EVERYONE you can think of at Ashford. it might get to where it needs to... possibly. my classes still land in Limbo, my (current) academic advisor never returns my calls/emails etc. if/when they might call you (probibly hitting you up for money) they *always* call you at times that you are notably unavailable and get mad at you for it. maybe if they ditch Bridgepoint (based in CA which is where most of the advisors are sourced out of) they would be great! (it is noted that i did have one financial aid advisor who was FANTASTIC who worked for the University itself.) but it seems like anyone based out of the CA office is a joke. you have been forewarned.
Ok, but listen good and take ur time
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on February 6, 2009
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I am currently completing my degree. My advice is to listen good to the recuiter you speak with. They say things in a way that sound "concrete", but don't work out that way. E.G. Transfer of credits was disappointing, as she told me all of my credits would transfer, but then only about 60% did. She made it sound like doing the PLA/Life Experience credits was a breeze, but I am currently finding it is not. As someone who has attended a standard classroom at a university, I will say the course materials are on par and the instructors are like you would like in any university. Some will be better than others. I do think Ashford is worth the time and effort, if you don't allow the recruiters to mislead you.
Ashford's MBA is a great program
MBA
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on February 4, 2009
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I am in my 3rd course and have been doing very well, I have a 4.0 and went to a traditional UC school for my Undergrad. The instructors vary on their responsiveness and interaction but that is the same as any college. My enrollment advisor Dana Hunt was there to support me and continues to, i read alot about advisors not supporting people through the whole program, but so far so good. I think for people that dont have hundreds of thousands of dollars, tons of time to sit in a traditional class, or the grades needed to go to Harvard this is best possible school to attend! I would recommend it.
Give me a break!!!
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on February 3, 2009
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Overall, the classes and instructors have been good. I enjoy my classes at AU. I have worked my tail off and have a 3.93 GPA, so I have no complaints on that part of the Institution. I am not sure I would recommend people to Ashford simply because of the problems I have encountered in other areas. My main complaint about this school is the process of receiving financial aid. Frankly I don't care what some other students have done, I have four kids to feed and put a roof over their heads. I waited my 14 weeks and I did receive a portion of my financial aid, but they are still holding $1600(about a 1/3) of my money. My tuition is paid for through the military...so why? By the way, my 14 weeks was up in November....still nothing. I was told they will hold 2 classes worth, and then as the military pays they will issue me a check. Military has paid and I still have nothing. They do not send invoices out in a timely manner, and when they do finally get them out, they loose the paperwork that was returned and say it was the military's delay. Not true, because they are furious over this, constantly resending vouchers to Ashford, and sending immediate payment as the invoices come in. I work, along with going to school and do not feel that I should have to hold Ashford's hand through-out this process, that is supposed to be their job. I have attended other brick and mortar schools, taking their online classes and have never had this amount of problem with payments and receiving financial aid. I did notice that even though they only update my account activity once every 2 or so weeks (including attendance) tuition is immediately updated the day class starts. At least someone is on the ball in the billing department! I have called numerous times and have gotten the run-around. Every single time I have asked to speak with a supervisor they are "in a meeting". I have left several messages on the supervisor's voicemail to return my call, if they ever give her a break from all those "meetings" (are they holding her hostage..should I call 911?)and she has not once called back. Policy is supposed to be 24 hours for a return call. For those of you that are having similar problems, you can contact the College Student Aid Commission for Iowa, the number is fairly easy to locate. That will be my next phone call as I am growing tired of having to deal with this issue.
Don't Believe the Bad Reviews
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on January 27, 2009
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The University isn't perfect but you will get an education if you put in the time and effort. Don't take on-line courses if you aren't a self-starter. Financial Aid can be a nightmare; don't blame the university for the red tape. The 5 week classes are no different than the summer classes you take at a traditional university. Most of the professors are good to excellent, but you will find a poor one every once in a while. That happens everywhere. If you google them you will find they have the credentials they claim to have. On the positive side, there are about 20 students in most of the classes. You have access to the professors that you would not have in a large university. You can text them, email them, or call them. They respond quickly. Text books are expensive everywhere. You know ahead of time what you need and you can buy them online-anywhere Most are standard textbooks so there is no problem finding used books. I don't know why people are complaining about this school, but my guess is that they don't realize that education is expensive. Some may not understand that online learning is the responsibility of the student - not the instructor or the school. No one is going to spoon feed you the information; you have to want to learn. I have a previous degree from a "real" school so I know what I am talking about.
Ashford Has Been an Excellent Experience
Social Science/Education
Reviewer: kellihubbard
(Degree In Progress) on January 25, 2009
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I am very satisfied with my experience at Ashford University thus far. I have completed 3 classes and will be done with my 4th next week. The online experience is very valuable for working adults especially those like me, who have chldren. As far as my financial aid, I qualified for it, was never harassed by Ashford to pay anything before my aid was approved and I also received a stipend right before Christmas. I love the flexibility and freedom when logging into post assignments. My children enjoy seeing me so involved in getting my degree and their response to me is quite rewarding as well. All in all I will say Ashford is a great school to consider. Also, I highly recommend Tonya Rego, my student enrollment advisor. She was outstanding as far as communication, encouragement and explaining the requirements mandated by Ashford. She probably played the largest role in my decision to enroll at Ashford. Oh my GPA is 4.0
My Brief Ashford Experience
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on January 19, 2009
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I completed 9 credits at Ashford University. To be honest, my experience was not all that bad. In fact, "good enough" may be the perfect words to describe my thoughts here. All 9 of my credits tranferred seamlessly into my local state college when I was ready to move on, which was rather quickly. I will admit that my writing skills improved significantly during my brief stay with Ashford. Although, I must say that writing was always a relatively strong skill for me anyway. All in all, I learned several valuable skills at Ashford University in spite of the fact that I only took 3 classes. I had three different instructors. One was mediocre, one was absolutely excellent, and one was lousy to the deepest depths of what lousy could possibly mean to any one person. This is the reason that the overall rating I gave was a 5. Having said that, I ultimately transerred out of Ashford because I am a high-achieving adult student and I could get into better colleges. Ashford is so open enrollment that people without high school diplomas have claimed to be admitted into Ashford. Honestly, I got to see really serious grade inflation first hand because some of the people in my online class were barely functioning at a ninth-grade level and were being passed through the system. This is true without a doubt. I think it is very likely that AU's reputation will continue to collapse for as long as witnesses to this grade inflation phenomenon are talking online. A college degree from Ashford will probably be viewed as a college degree for people who couldn't perform well in a traditional university. This comment is not to slam its curriculum, which I already admitted was decent. This comment is designed to mention that not everyone is quite capable of being college material. In my opinion, Ashford University is a college that better serves the needs of these people than those who can be successful at more selective institutions.
Satisfied Ashford U. Alumnus
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: paulrovens
(Graduate) on January 19, 2009
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I went to Ashford University (Online) from January 2007 until my graduation in September of 2008. I have a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from Ashford. I felt that my two years at the school were very challenging. Overall, I got a lot out of my education. I am currently enrolled in grad school at a local state college and doing very well. After taking five week classes for two years the state college's semester system (15 weeks) seems much easier. I feel Ashford prepared me for grad school. My bachelors has also paid off in the job market. Overall, Ashford is a good school for working adults who want to better their lives. To be successful you need to take full responsibility for your education. Most of the complaints I've read are from people who were looking to be spoon-fed by school administrators. When they were not babied they dropped out.
Investing in myself
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: kekelsm24
(Degree In Progress) on January 19, 2009
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I have been in school at Ashford for almost 2 years now and I have not had any major problems the classes are a whole lot cheaper than the University of Phoenix, their classes were about $1100 a class my classes have ranged from $700-$1000. The classes that cost $1000 are my core classes. I also believe that by reading these post is not a good way to make up your mind about getting a degree online do your research before you make that decision. Go to the department of education and see if they are accredited they are and this is an actual university located in Clinton, Iowa. This was the best move I could have ever made for myself. If you are willing to do a lot of reading then this is for you. I went to an affiliate of the University of Phoenix and I had to log on everyday to check in with Ashford I just have to log on Thursdays and Mondays. If you want the flexability then this would be the right school for you. I have been to a B & M school and I had problems with my academic conselor and financial aid advisor so I just feel that any way we decide to go we will still have problems. But if you do not fight for your education then you do not need to go to any school. Because we have to fight for our education because no one else will it is up to us this is our investment into ourselves and it is up to us to make the experience a good or bad one. Someone said that they tried to get the number and address of the school so that they could talk with the dean all they had to do was go to www.ashforduniversity.edu and all the information is there.
Been a year with no problem
Organizational Management
Reviewer: ckd_808
(Degree In Progress) on January 13, 2009
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I have been enrolled for a year so far. SO far so good. I have been able to transfer credits from my local community college with no problem. I have also applied for financial aid with no problem and receive my money in a timely manner. I have read how others have had issues with communication, but I have had no issues and live 5,000 miles away from campus. Yes, it is expensive, but my location limits me in my options. Phoenix University was more expensive, less flexible and had a longer program. Remember, Financial aid is up to you. You have to be the one to apply online at FAFSA.org once you do this and designate your appropriate school, fill out the proper forms for your school, its all good. Unless you missed a deadline, there should be no problems besides possible human error.
So Far, So Good
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: stupafly
(Degree In Progress) on January 12, 2009
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I just wanted to say that I am in my third class at Ashford. The stipend payments were disbursed exactly when they said they would be in my notification via email, and the date of the payment under "financial information" link online coincided with when I received my check several days later. I already knew there would be a wait for the first disbursement, thanks to my enrollment advisor letting me know, but my first set of books was free, again, just like my enrollment advisor indicated. Speaking of books, I tend to buy mine on Ebay. They are a lot less than at the online store. As for Ashford being a diploma mill, I would disagree. So far I have a 4.0 grade point average, but the average grades for each class (which are posted) are much less than mine. The quality of some of the posting on Blackboard is poor, but I believe that people there are graded fairly. My three teachers so far have been very responsive to any questions I have had. There are brick and mortar institutions where you actually have to wait all the way until the end of the quarter to receive any stipends for left-over funding. So that would be at three, six, nine and 12 months, if you attend even in summer. I don't feel the seven and 15 week policy is unreasonable.
Not bad
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on January 10, 2009
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This is by no means the worst institute I've ever dealt with. To the individual that does LE in the military, they take more credits than most do. I had 6 years AD/MP and earned 54 credits. Ashford accepted 40 of them. Most universities only accept 6-12. The instructors are not all that bad. There are a few that I'd rather not deal with again. I hate calling my financial aid and my academic advisers, but I can rest assured knowing that at some point I'll get an answer from them. Although at times it is months after the fact. In 6 months I had 4 different FA advisers and 3 different academic advisers. Other than those offices, it isn't all that bad.
GO ELSEWHERE!!!!!
MBA
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on January 10, 2009
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I have had the worst experience with Ashford!!! PLEASE do your research on this fake diploma mill before giving them your money!!!! I have two degrees already and had simply enrolled for my MBA. I decided to withdrawal the first week of class because of such miscommunication with Ashford! ONCE THEY GET YOUR MONEY THEY ARE DONE WITH YOU!!! Sure they are very proactive BEFORE they get your money but once you enroll and sign the papers---don't let the door hit you on the way out. They won't return phone calls, answer e-mails or anything! Horrible horrible horrible. My advisor was Ryan Castro, enrollment advisor Bridget. Don't recommend these people at all!!!!!! Go elsewhere--to a program that requires the GMAT or GRE--for a good education. This diploma mill hopefully will soon be shut down. Another thing, EVERYONE you speak with at Ashford tells you they are "working" on their degree at Ashford. Well they don't tell you that "working" on their degree simply means getting experience by working at Ashford--they aren't enrolled taking courses at Ashford!!!
Ashford is a rip-off
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on January 7, 2009
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It is important to know that Ashford will never EVER do what they say they will- your transcripts will take months to get reviewed, you will never know how much financial aid you have to borrow until it is too late. They stole $2000.00 of my financial aid and I am now responsible for that loan when I never even got to finish a class! They don't return your calls in financial aid and they are very rude. I advise you strongly do not enroll in this program! There are other reputable schools that actually communicate with their students in a timely manner. By the way, the blackboard is always going down, but they hold you accountable for your work, even though you can't log in. They are doing unethical things with financial aid, they tell you the first class is free (online program) as well as the books and then they charge you. Don't fall for it!
Ashford is a Good School
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on January 6, 2009
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My experience with Ashford has been mostly positive, yes there are schools out there that are cheaper and there are schools out there that are more expensive but overall the value has been worth it. Ashford has the same challenges that any school that promotes online has. There are challenges with communication and staff, if one does their homework on online schools before signing up you will know that it is common. I find it interesting that some people are quick to point out the negatives with Ashford and claim that they've been to strenuous and prestigious schools. Yale, Harvard and Stanford have online classes, why not go there if you're not happy with the quality of student that is at Ashford? Trust me Ashford is better than most online schools
Ashford University
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on January 5, 2009
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-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I would strongly discourage anyone considering Ashford University from doing so. I am receiving my BA in psychology from Ashford and have completed all required hours, however after being told by my academic advisor and the registrars office that my degree completion transcript should be on its way, I am now informed that I have to complete 3 more hours of upper division credits. I have no problems in doing this if I did not believe I had already graduated. I have 30 hours in electives from another campus, and they will not substitute. I was hired at a mental health clinic pending my transcript (which I was told was in the mail), and now I am without employment due to turning in my two weeks notice to my previous job. I would have never made such a move, but was congratulated on my graduation, or the lie of such. I have been a champ with Ashford, My house was demolished in May 2008, due to an EF-4 tornado. I contacted my instructors and told them what happened and was given an "I" for incomplete. I contacted Ashford and informed them that I could not login to my classes, and one week later I was dropped and the "I"'s became "F". So yes I had to pay again and retake those classes. Ashford has been a headache and it is on you if you decide to go with Ashford. I would find a State University and pick an online format with them. I can not speak for Clintons campus, but the Online experience is horrible.
Very Satisfied
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: shannon_zook
(Degree In Progress) on January 1, 2009
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I am into my second class. I am a 33 year old mother of a two year old, and wife to a man with two jobs. There is just no way I can do the schedule of a community collage. Honestly, even if I could the one time I had to deal with the community collage employees I wanted to pull my hair out. My enrollment counselor has been absolutely amazing. Calling me back close to 10 times over a months time to see how my choices were coming. Always nice, never too pushy. As far as the cost of the books....they are expensive EVERYWHERE. My husband went to a state collage for his bachelors and University of Phoenix for his MBA. No matter what school you go to books are always hard on the pocket book. It is harder, but you can still find Ashford books used too. I have found an $80 for $30 and a $88 book for $42 both on EBAY. As far as my teachers so far the only one nit-picky thing I can think of is that it took 2 weeks to get our grades from the first week of assignments. The only reason I say that is because I was SO excited to get my grades. By the way I have gotten full credit on every assignment so far. The assignments are all about writing. As you can see I love to write so I have NO PROBLEM! Basically, you will have questions about your reading assignments, and one quiz or a written assignment. My assignments so far have been essay style questions. As far as value. Just as any other online degree it is very expensive, but as I have said before I do not have time to go to a traditional style collage, nor do I want to be in class with a bunch of 18 or 19 year old kids. I LOVE not having a certain time I have to log in! It is the only way to go! Yes, it will use all of the Stafford Loan money and yes I will owe them close to $40000 when I am done. I will also be able to almost double my salary with the experience I already have. I researched and looked into every school you can imagine for over 3 months and they all have their flaws. Ashford had the fewest. Bottom line that you will probably hear from your enrollment counselor is if you do not like to write and are not a self starter then this is not for you. You have to be able to read 4 or 5 chapters at a time and write a response about what you read. It is a lot of work. I spend about 5 hours a week doing my assignments. Think about how much time I would have to spend if I had to drive to class 3 or 4 days a week. I hope this helps and if you have ANY questions feel free to drop me a line shannon_zook@yahoo.com Shannon Zook
Finish
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Garzaktown
(Graduate) on December 29, 2008
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I've been an Ashford University student since 2005 and I just graduated. So, I have a lot of knowledge and experience about their classes and instructors.
All I can say is that they have treated me very well. My academic adviser and financial adviser, have always treated me well and taken care of my concerns. Technical support has made much more improvements in blackboard over the years, and they are avilable 24/7 if you need help. My professors and instructors are always there to help me and worked with me on any emergencies in my personal life.
If there is anything negative to say is that I had disagreements with classmates and instructors, but all of that is normal just like any ordinary classroom. On-line courses is not just for anyone, it takes discipline and lots of reading to make it through, and with that you become much more smarter.
I will continue my eduction with Ashford University in receiving my MBA.
Not Perfect, but who is?
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on December 26, 2008
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There are times when we have a bad experience. Not everyone is perfect. I was at University of Phoenix and had a problem with a professor there. I had questioned the questions I had gotten wrong on a test and she said I can not give you the correct answer you have to look it up. Nice. People complain about the school, have you looked on the BBB for U of P? hundreds of students have complained. There is not a perfect program on-line,please post when you find them. Ashford has been pretty good when you put in the time. I have seen some lame postings in class and see the lack of quality in their work. My last class the average score was a 60% and I got 96.4 for my work.
Beware!!!
Teaching and Learning with Technology
Reviewer: datuma4
(Degree In Progress) on December 23, 2008
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All I can say is, very decieving. They promise setting up financial aid and never do. The idea is to get you started as soon as possible and get you through as many courses as they can before they tell you that there is a problem with the financial aid. You are then stuck with a bill that they will then demand immediate payment for. I know what you are thinking...disgruntled student that failed out and couldn't cut it. No, I don't think so. I had two A's in the first two classes I took. You will get ripped off!
Degree vs Experience
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Graduate) on December 18, 2008
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I work as a law enforcement officer in the military. Ashford stated they will take in lots of military credits but they didn't. I have schooling in the military as an investigator/forensics. They couldn't even grant me those credits towards their courses. How can my military schools and experience compare to an online investigator/forensics course. It can't even compare. They are a bunch of bull. I don't recommend this school to any military personnel.
Don't be Lazy
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: davidslade78
(Degree In Progress) on December 16, 2008
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After a few kinks and being a new college student, I find the Ashford experience to be great. After reading some of the negative reviews on this site, it appears the problem is with the person, not Ashford. Having to pay for books and Microsoft Word are common college expenses. Not everything could be covered under Financial Aid. The books can be pricey, yes, but you can also rent textbooks from sites like bookrenter.com for a fraction of the cost. They will not hold your hand (as you are a college ADULT now), but will walk you through the beginning steps. By the way, I have been going to Ashford for over 2 years now non stop and never have had the issues that some of these people have.
Military Spouse's Honest Opinion
MBA
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on December 16, 2008
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I am now in my 4th class at Ashford University, and I find this to be a pretty good school. Ashford is a particularly good school for military service members, military spouses and dependents, veterans, and DoD employees, all of which are eligible for free books, discounted tuition at the Bachelor's level ($250 per credit hour), NO technology fees, and they take military credits. These are benefits that I greatly appreciate. I've read through some of the other reviews who complain about the problems with financial aid and complaining that the classes cram a semester's worth of material into 5 or 6 weeks (depending on if you are in the bachelor's or master's program). Apparently, these people haven't attended a real brick and mortar school. Financial aid offices at brick and mortar schools get just as many complaints about people's financial aid as Ashford does. Unfortunately that is a normal occurrence. As for the length of the classes, has anyone every when to summer school or Maymester at a traditional college or university. Those classes are usually 4-5 weeks long. It's basically the same deal. I actually found the summer school classes to be more effective than the regular classes. I got better grades then too. I will admit that the academic advisor's could be better. My first academic advisor was terrible, and I am glad to say that I don't have him anymore. My enrollment advisor was great, and he actually still calls once per class to see how I am progressing. The technology is fine. I've used Blackboard before when I was working on my undergraduate degree at a traditional university, which has one of the top international business schools in the country (graduated in 2006). It's a simple and effective platform to use. The classes do seem to require just as much if not more work than traditional ones do. The lessons do require critical thinking so this is not a degree that can be purchased. You do have to work for it. This is not a degree mill. If it was, I highly doubt that the US military would allow TA to be used here. This is a quality education. The books are about $75-$150 per class depending on if you are a graduate student or not (grad student books are more expensive). Those are reasonable prices because books at a traditional college or university cost just as much. The only thing I think that a traditional college has is that one can go to the bookstore and purchase used books, which can still be a little pricey. I, as well as my husband, has had nothing but a pleasant experience at Ashford. As a matter of fact, my sister-in-law now attends Ashford and is having a positive experience. You get out of college what you put into it. That is the truth at either an online or traditional school. If you work at it, you will do fine at this school.
It's OK!
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: Rlm1267
(Degree In Progress) on December 16, 2008
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I am at the end of my 9th class and all is good so far some classes better than others same with the instructors, some great some suck and do nothing. I have found out that if the bookstore says 6th edition Ashford, a person can get edition 5 and it will be word for word and I have gotten some of the books for $1.50 compared to Ashford’s $75-$100. As far as the F.A. new policies go on the stipend, if it sneaks up on you like it did me all you have to do is tell them it’s not cool you need the money for school stuff they will give it to you the first time than the second time it will be the 7 and 14 week way. Overall it’s pretty good I don’t feel dumb for going. I been in for a year and the same lady (K.M.) that signed me up for the school still calls me and emails me just to see how I am doing. If you like it you like it a lot if you hate it you hate it a lot. And if you don’t get the answers you want from someone there keep calling and asking for someone else, it may take a little time but you will find the right person that will help with what you need THEY ARE THERE! You just have to find them.
Ashford University
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on December 12, 2008
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I am in my 5th class at Ashford. I too am discouraged by the reviews on this site. Financial aid, professors, advisors, etc. are problems at all colleges. Unfortunately, some people get caught in the bad experiences. The financial aid policy was the same at the community college I went to. You have to do your research before choosing a school. You have to find your fit. I researched 3 online schools before choosing AU. I love the 5 week format. I get ADD with regular classes. I've already gotten the gist while the professor is going on and on in lecture. The online format lets me go at my own pace (within boundaries). I'll finish my degree in half the time I would have on campus. I have a 4.0 for the first time in my life - and my enrollment advisor sent me a congratulatory email. As with any online program, you need to be disciplined with your studies. Time management is very important. AU is not a waste. It is unfortunate that they do not cover books under Financial Aid. But I get my books 50 - 60% off anyway from eBay, textbookx, or campusbooks.
Frustrated and Disappointed
Social Science/Education
Reviewer: cathygrimes
(Degree In Progress) on December 10, 2008
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I have been extremely unhappy with my experience with Ashford. I felt I was very thorough in my research and questioning before I enrolled, but quickly found out that it was not an institution to be trusted. It all began the first week of my first class. My instructor was impossible. I emailed numerous times with a problem/question during my first week. She never answered. Then, when grades came out, she flunked that assignment. When asked why, I was told I didn't do it. It took me 6 weeks to get an answer to my week 1 problem and a explanation of my grade- which was eventually corrected only after I filed complaint after complaint. When I filed the complaint on the instructor, I was told there was no legitimate reason for any action! My academic advisor told me that I could add a minor to my degree- that turned out to be false. He also told me all my credits (109) would transfer and I would only have to take 5-7 classes to graduate. I am now lined up for 11! No one returns calls in a timely mannor or gives straight answers. I have been jerked around the entire time. The rules change in the middle. I am now wondering, if I do finish with Ashford, will I have a legitimate degree? Or, will I have wasted a lot of time and money?
BE WARNED!!!!!!!!!
Social Science/Education
Reviewer: ennikkifoster
(Degree In Progress) on December 2, 2008
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I wished I never heard of Ashford. The enrollment advisors will say anything to get you to enroll at Ashford. When I signed up for Ashford the enrollment advisor told me how great Ashford was and that if I needed anything they would always be here to help. Well "NOT TRUE"! For one I started school at the beginning of July and it took them three months to send me my first refund. Second you have to pay for books out of your on pocket which averages out to be around $200.00 a month, and even though you get grants and loans they will not take out money from that to help pay for your books. You also have to invest in Microsoft Word because that is the only doc. file that most of the teachers use. Finally they changed the way you get your refund back. Even if you have been in school for a year you now have to wait at least five weeks to get only 30% of your refund back and another nine to ten weeks to get 70% back.The reason they are doing this is that they don't want to see students fail. That is the reason the school gave to me. Also you pay $1000.00 for blackboard to get into group discussions and to turn in home work and in return blackboard is always down. I'm sorry but I feel like as long as I am going to school and passing with a high B average in all of the classes, why should I be punished for others wrong doings.
Much Better Online BA Schools Out There
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on December 1, 2008
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I enrolled at Ashford and quite frankly this was a waste of my time and money. The classes were VERY expensive. Every time I tried to find out what the cost to complete my degree would be, I got a run-around. I withdrew in frustration over the lack of assistance from their administration. I also was charged $500 for matriculation that never was done, etc. There are online programs that are MUCH less expensive and are upfront about the costs involved.
Ashford University
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on November 30, 2008
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I am not at all surprised by the handfull of people that have posted with complaints. They state that advisers, professors, etc are sometimes uncaring. I wish to ask them if they ever stepped foot in an actual college or university? I have seen the same form of uncaring, unknown individuals as you have seen from an online college. As for those that commented about any "poor folk" could pass. I would have to beg to differ on that. Just like anything else in life, you get out what you put in. If you don't do the work, you fail. Plain and simple. As for the comments on the professors being "housewives", I would like to see your proof on your assumptions. I did research on some of my professors and found what they stated in their introductions to be valid and truthful. I have attended Ashford for over a year now, and yes, I've had my share of issues. I've spoken to a friend who has done both "regular" and "online" schooling and understands when certain things happen. If you can't reach them by phone, e-mail them. I have kept 99.9% of my communications with Ashford by e-mail. So financial aid has a new policy, did you RESEARCH it? Its not their doing, but a FEDERAL order. Don't always blame someone else for your own failures. I am studying for a BA in Psychology and Criminal Justice. I have a friend who attends online with me. She would be the first to come forward if anything seemed "easy" or "fishy". Also, I had dropped out of high school ( but did obtain a GED ) and these classes are NOT a cakewalk. If you don't like a college, then move on. Just because Ashford is owned by a private company, doesn't mean its bad. Look at other public colleges, look who runs them. A "Board of Regents" - sounds business to me.
never again
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on November 25, 2008
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the classes are very easy and my enrollment advisor is great as for everything else this school is the worst i have ever seen. my finance guy lost my paper work 6 times. they screwed up my loan twice. i was told i was getting 7000 back and i got 3900. that money is missing and im the one stuck paying it back not them. In the year i have been with them i spoke to my advisor twice. they sure are not on the ball with anything. I should have left the first time they messed up all my aid papers but i got a new advisor and thought everything would be great from here on out. Now i realize it was just a waste of time. not much time however concidering i have a 3.5 and have not read any of my books for any of my classes.
Ashford? Absolutely!
B.A. Psychology
Reviewer: valerieahoward
(Graduate) on November 17, 2008
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I enrolled at Ashford in June '06 and graduated in Dec '07 with a BA in Psychology. I had a wonderful experience. The 5 week intensive classes were just long enough to keep my attention. The only reason I did not continue at Ashford for my graduate degree is that my major wasn't offered. Now I have 10-week courses and find myself bored around week 6. Ashford kept me on my toes. I loved that I knew what to expect with each class because each class follows the same frame work (weekly quiz, discussion posts and responses, papers due in week 3 and week 5). It worked for me. Sure, there were classes in which the instructors were not as visible or available, but as an online adult learner, knowing how to work without supervision should be part of one's make-up anyway. This happens in B&M schools, too. I excelled at Ashford and was ecstatic to finally finish my B.A. with a 3.93 GPA at the age of 36. I earned every A. Ashford is no diploma mill. You study, do the work and put effort into it, you get good results. If not, well...then, not so much. I drove with 10 members of my family and close friends in a bad snow storm from Chicago to Iowa to the B&M Ashford for graduation and it was worth it. I truly accomplished something and am a role model for my kids and anyone who never thought they would have the chance to go back to school after making some bad decisions in their youth or just because life threw them a curve. I recommend Ashford to anyone who is computer literate, is a self-starter, and works well without supervision.
Psychology Major Review of Ashford University
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: sunshine071182
(Degree In Progress) on November 16, 2008
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I will obtain my Bachelors of Psychology in August of 2009 and have been pleased with the amount of feedback, support and information learned while attending these online courses. I have yet to be hassled about money, yet to experience lack of feedback or any other amount of unprofessionalism. I do agree that some of the students do have a hard time reading, writing etc., but I admire and commend their tenacity to continue with their education. I do not know how much it will aid them in the near future if they are still struggling in college. I do not like how expensive the books are and feel that the books that are purchased through the online bookstore should be versatile enough to be found at cheaper sites. I understand that textbooks are always being updated, but it is becoming a burden that I will not miss once I graduate from Ashford. To any perspective students, I say that Ashford is like any other University. They strive for excellence, the professors expect excellence and they are very helpful and supportive as well as the Ashford staff. If you are looking for a school where you can learn, feel the support, be able to contact staff anytime and graduate with a feeling of accomplishment and no regret Ashford is the school for you!
Ashford is nice but stay away from one class.
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on November 15, 2008
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I am about to graduate in a few months, and there are a few thoughts I wanted to share with you. While my overall experience was a nice one, I would strongly suggest not taking a class titled "Man's Dependence On the Environment." In short this class is a joke. For starters, you are required to purchase an on line lab. What the hell for? The same material is in the required text book. Additionally, you are required to spend additional funds on a book, to choose a topic for the final paper. This information is available on line FOR FREE. There is no reasonable excuse for any student to have to purchase these items. Overall this class I a giant joke. The chapters are all the same: Mankind is evil and destroying the environment I get it! We consume to many resources. If you have been given this class, fight them to get another class, as this is a giant waste of time and money.
Two Thumbs Up for Ashford
Organizational Management
Reviewer: mickandjulie
(Degree In Progress) on November 11, 2008
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I start my 5th class tomorrow. Ashford has been a challenge, but one that I have enjoyed. It's frustrating to read negative reviews, because they are so far from the truth. Ashford's curriculum is NO joke!
My Honest Opinion
MBA
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on November 10, 2008
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I am currently a student at Ashford University. I have completed 3 courses and have a 4.0 GPA. The books are excellent, the teachers are mediocre, but everything else about Ashford is awful. The enrollment advisors will do anything to get you enrolled, but once you are enrolled you can never get in touch with them again. I have left message after message with no return calls. It is hard to get your financial aid. They send you one award letter then change the disbursement date two weeks later. When you threaten to cancel the financial aid they get part of the financial aid disbursed to them so they will not lose any money. WARNING: They have just instituted a new financial aid policy. You must be in school for seven consecutive weeks to get 30% of your financial aid, and the remaining 70% is disbursed after 15 weeks. It is essentially 9 and 17 weeks, because they have an additional 14 days to mail it to you. By the time you get your first disbursement of 30% you are into the second class, and the remaining 70% is not delivered until the end of the third class. For the second disbursement the 7 week and 15 week cycle starts all over again. So you are in your 5th class and the second disbursement comes at the end of your academic year which is at the end of your first semester starting into your 7th class. I know this is confusing, but it is the honest truth. They instituted this policy on October 13 2008, and they did not notify me until November 7. So make sure you have money to pay for books before you start, because you cannot count on financial aid for them. You will need to use your first disbursement for the first seven classes, so make sure you buy all of your books with the first disbursement. I would not want anyone to be in my situation. Keep in mind you are paying interest for the money they are keeping for as much as four months from the day it is disbursed. They did this "in case you fail a class so they will have the money on hand to pay for the class you have to take over again." According to the enrollment advisor I spoke to today, people were using their disbursements for car accidents, pregnancies, and medical costs, then they would drop out of school. So, we all have to suffer for what other bad people do. It is owned by a for profit company called Bridgepointe Education, LLC in San Diego, CA. The real Ashford University campus is in Clinton, IA, but the support for online students is in San Diego, CA. The Better Business Bureau has processed a total of 22 complaints about Ashford University in Iowa, and 10 more complaints about them in San Diego. I would not recommend this school to anyone. Financial aid is to pay for books and expenses for you to attend school. I already have my Bachelor's Degree, and my previous brick and mortar school was not run in this unprofessional manner. My recommendation is to look else where.
Overall good school.
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: m.eiselstein
(Degree In Progress) on November 9, 2008
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Let me put this in a list form since there is a character limit: Good - Great value for military members and veterans. Discounts include waived technology and application fees, free books, and discounted tuition (currently only $250 a credit hour). - Great instructors. My current instructor has a doctorate and the teaching assistants all have master's degrees. - Don't expect to automatically pass. The classes are demanding. Bad - Blackboard is hard to learn and navigate. Links are spread out all over the place and it takes a few weeks to learn the system. - Some advisors are more involved than other. I have a great enrollment advisor but the other advisors keep to themselves. - School is not a diploma mill, but they are now owned by a private company (Bridgepoint Education). This scares me as businesses are in it for one thing: money.
Ashford MBA student with fair review
MBA
Reviewer: rinish720
(Degree In Progress) on November 8, 2008
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When I was first thinking about enrolling I couldn't stop getting help and then slowly as I finished enrolling it slowed down dramatically. My financial advisor was always there to help answer questions but the company (thats what it is, not a school) started a program two weeks after I enroll that does not allow the student to have any left over financial aid at one. Instead, the student will get 30% after seven weeks and 70% after 14 weeks. This put me in a very bad position since I was about to make a huge move to start a new job with a company that hired me based on me working towards my MBA. The bookstore will screw you the first chance they get. The technology is horrible. After three weeks the blackboard program that the school uses crashed and the professor was forced to give us all full credit. They'll let anybody in, anybody. A person can learn from the material and some of it is challenging. The professor that I have had thus far was very intelligent and genuinely cared about the students learning. The financial aid department outsources out to a company outside of the United States and the employees and advisors are all students looking to get you enrolled so they can get a free tuition. The school is accredited and my MBA will be legit but being that Ashford has had a few different names not many people will have heard of them. I do like the fact that the school is primarily a brick and mortar school and that allows me to be a graduate of a school with an address, however, if I had the opportunity to do it all over again, I don't that I would choose Ashford.
Psychology
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on November 1, 2008
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Online degrees are not "easy" and Ashford is no exception. Their 5 week semesters keep you on your toes. All the courses follow a basic pattern so once you get into the rhythm you will know what to expect each week and you can manage it. Most of the professors have been great - they become very involved with the course and will give you feedback quickly. I am currently in my 7th course and have only had one professor who wasn't up to par. College is expensive - whether on campus or online - that is a fact of life. Administration has been supportive every step of the way. It's the level of support I would expect from a private university. Honestly, I can't say anything bad about the institution.
Great School
Organizational Management
Reviewer: clc28rc
(Degree In Progress) on October 31, 2008
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Let me first say that you get out of your classes what you put into them. I enrolled with Ashford in April 2008. I was quite nervous about signing up without knowing what I would qualify for financially. I took my enrollment advisor's word that I would qualify for aid. I knew my income would disqualify me for FSA, however, my enrollment advisor ensured me that there would be no problem with the Stafford. I am glad I believed in him! To date this has been the best educational experience I have had. Other than being uneasy about finance, the remainder of my enrollment was smooth. The classes have had a wealth of information, the instructors are top notch, provide feedback, and guidance. My Stafford was approved by the beginning of my second class and has been seamless since then. Some have mentioned a hidden fee of $990 taken with the second class, which is true, but my enrollment advisor informed me of this before I signed anything. My thought is that those who claim they were not aware may have overlooked it during enrollment as there is a lot of information to go over with your advisor. I am proud to be enrolled at Ashford. Go Saints!!
GREAT SCHOOL
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Graduate) on October 23, 2008
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So it is interesting and I felt compelled to write a review on my experience at Ashford. I never had any issues getting a hold of individuals to assist me at Ashford University whether it be an enrollment advisor, academic advisor or any of my instructors. My enrollment advisor was extremely knowledgeable and never FORCED me to do anything I didn't want to do and never lied to me. Yes, you may have an instructor that you don't see eye to eye with; Come on People, we meet people like this every day of our lives and it doesn't hold us back. Most of the individuals who had problems with financial aid more than likely didn't have their paperwork in order or on time. I used it and NEVER had any problems in the two years I attended here. Someone had mentioned they were upset that they withdrew from a class and had to pay the university; WAKE UP and smell the coffee, because it is like that in almost every university! They are not going to waste their money on someone who isn't serious about their education or quits when they realize it isn't as easy as they claim it is or was. Someone who has likely been fired or quit from this institution probably isn't going to have anything good to say. If the university's policy says that in order to receive free courses, you must meet the requirements of enrolling so many students, that is meant for motivation to get people into college and is pretty acceptable. That does not mean that all they care about is money, because obviously they are spending a great deal to allow their employees to take classes. If anything you should be grateful for the opportunity because most employers do not offer free education on any circumstance. I always enjoy the comments about how they hand out degrees because I know how hard I worked and how many hours I put into the projects and papers, and I cannot tell you how dissappointed it makes me that someone (who obviously doesn't know what they are talking about) would ridicule it.
Current Grad Student
Teaching and Learning with Technology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on October 23, 2008
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I am in my 7th course at Ashford. The experience has been more challenging than a standard on campus program. I have only had one instructor that did not meet my expectations. The courses, text books, and discussions have been relevant. Given my current work demands, the online program works well with my schedule. All questions regarding financial aid are answered. Any questions for my instructors are answered. Technical support is available 24/7 and I have used them 4 times during my educational experience at Ashford. I communicate with my enrollment counselor on a regular basis via email and by phone. Education is what you make of it. I am committed and demand the same from Ahsford.
The Surprise
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: adhelms2000
(Degree In Progress) on October 22, 2008
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This school is a joke. A week after receiving my award letter for financial aid, I received an email from the financial aid office at Ashford saying that effective immediately, they would not disburse refunds until 7 weeks after the original disbursement date. In the meanwhile, I inquired about my books, I asked if they could be credited to my account and was told that they couldn't. I withdrew quickly. That's what I get for not doing research first.
Ashford University
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on October 20, 2008
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An Ashford education is a joke. The classes are designed so that anyone with a junior high education can pass. Their so-called "Enrollment Advisors" are actually telemarketers, many of whom are NOT college grads. Their job is to get you in school at all costs. If they don't enroll a specific number of students per week, they get fired. So as you can imagine, Ashford's bottom line is more important than your education; they are a for-profit school. The quality of your education there is questionable. If they are condensing an entire semester into five weeks, how much are you really learning? Or better yet, how much are you NOT learning? They make the classes easy so you won't drop out and take your student loan dollars with you. Once you are in, expect to be treated like royalty...during your first class. The Enrollment Advisor doesn't get credit for enrolling you until you finish your first class, so they check in with you constantly to see how you are, help you with problems, etc. After you finish your first class, don't expect to hear from her again. Now you're on your own. Their support system sucks. It takes weeks to get an answer to any questions. And they will bug you to DEATH for referrals. They don't want to spend any money on marketing or advertising, so they ask you constantly for names and numbers for your friends so they can be put on the call list.
Janie
Organizational Management
Reviewer: jsolano
(Degree In Progress) on October 16, 2008
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I attended University of Phoenix and enjoyed it! I was able to get 24 credits right away but I did not have a life. I worked fulltime and sometimes weekend it just was not for me. At the time, they did not offer one class at a time so it was hard. I transferred to Ashford after my 24 hrs. I am enjoying it here as well. I like the 5 weeks and you start another class right away. I was disappointed earlier because a co-worker stated, "online degree's are not really earned degrees" What do you all think? I feel that it is up to the individual to learn and benefit from learning as much as possible. I enjoy the fact that I don't need to drive. I attend at my own time. I get fraustrated at times because you do get tired of reading,homework & postings. I just keep pushing myself and I am determined to get that piece of paper. Reality also is that any college now a day especially online you will need to get loans even if you qualify for FAFSA there is no way around it! I am willing to pay for my education at whatever cost. That payment will remind me yes I got my degree. good luck!
Ashford made my degree possible
MBA
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on October 15, 2008
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I have read all the comments that range from horrible to great. I completed my B.A. through Ashford and I am currently completing my MBA. I agree that there do seem to be plenty of classmates who cannot write very well, but I do believe we are all entitled to an education. In addition, you can only get what you want out of the education. I agree that some of the classes seemed very easy; however these were classes I had much experience in out on the job. There have been plenty of classes I have spent 8 or more hours on just one assignment because of the difficulty. Again, this was in my accounting classes which I did not have much experience with on the outside. I do not think Ashford is the greatest school out there, but I do think it is the greatest online accelerated program. As far as responses from those who work there, I have seen that they are slow to respond and this can be cumbersome, but they do eventually get back with you. I agree they do need improvement in this area; however, I do not think this is the worst school ever nor do I think it is the greatest. It is what it is and I graduated with my BA in Organizational Management with a 3.92 and currently have a 4.0 in my MBA. Depending what you are looking for, this is a school that can meet your needs. Good luck to everyone pursing their degree whether it be through Ashford or another school of your choosing. An education is something to be proud of no matter where you get your degree.
Excellent perks for military
Social Science/Education
Reviewer: theodore76
(Degree In Progress) on October 12, 2008
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I am on my third course with Ashford and I have taken other online courses at AIU when I was in the military and let me tell you Ashford hands down is the best. My academic advisor and enrollment advisor are always there when I need them. They are a bit pricey, but they have some excellent perks for military, military spouses and veterans. Free books, free shipping, discounted courses, I can't tell you how much that saves me! They even transfered the majority of my other credits so only about a year and I should have my degree! So, far so good!
Ashford has been a benefit to me...
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on October 4, 2008
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There is a percentage of very negative reviews on this board about the quality of this institution and its students. I have had no troubles at all, and I take offense to those who call those of us enrolled and participating as "sub-par" students. I would challenge any of these individuals to an intellectual debate. I have received straight A's and received valuable feedback from my instructors. I always get my questions answered promptly and while I agree the best avenue to a higher education is in an on-campus environment, many of us do not have the luxury of a close proximity university to reasonably attend, especially with fuel prices where they currently stand. So to those considering an online route through this university, keep an open mind. Yes, some of the students encountered through the Blackboard system are not quality students, but some are very bright. Keep an open mind. I have had no problems and have received prompt support. I am as skeptical as anyone but am satisfied so far.
Ashford is Regionally Accredited
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on September 30, 2008
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My husband and I attend Ashford and we love it. People need to check their facts before believing what they read. Sometimes the person entering college doesn't listen and research before compulsively joining; then they get upset when they realize they made the mistake. A private school education is not free and if you are looking for a hand out, get some easy certificate, but if you want a real accredited degree that is not an online degree but you can complete online at your convenience, look into Ashford. As always, think for yourselves.
So far, so good
Social and Criminal Justice
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on September 26, 2008
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So far, my experience at Ashford University has been a pleasant one. My enrollment advisor scheduled "call times" so that we could discuss how I was doing and if I had any questions. He checked in on me quite often throughout my first two classes. Kudos to John Basso. Then I was given an academic advisor who has been nothing but helpful. Anytime I have had a question, she has been there to help me, or to direct me to the person who has the answers, so thanks Brianna. Financial aid was a hassle in the beginning. They didn't receive my faxes, or needed more information, or something, but once everything was straightened out, it was fine. I have already received my aid for my academic year, and am awaiting my award letter for my next academic year. My financial aid advisor was changed during the first go-around, which I am sure contributed to the mishaps, however, I have had no problems since being assigned my new advisor, Carly. Also, the first few classes, I was shocked to see some of the students responses, however, now that I am in my sixth class, there are very few, if any, people with those previous communication skills. Anyone who has a HS diploma or GED can attend college (and attaining those are quite easy). I noticed students dropping out of classes, or the teachers writing announements regarding poor communication skills. The books are quite expensive, in my opinion. I just received my book for my next class, SOC-120 (I believe), and it was quite expensive. $55 for a 119 page book. But so far, I have learned a lot and have attained knowledge I would have otherwise not known. Trying to keep my 4.0 GPA has really been a challenge, so I would NOT say they are a Degree Mill by any means. All in all, I find Ashford University to be a very good school. And I've checked out the Accredidations, they are legit.
Ashford is wonderful!
Organizational Management
Reviewer: fairfield567
(Degree In Progress) on September 26, 2008
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I have read through the reviews and I do have something that I wanted to share. I have been enrolled at Ashford for a year now and it has been an absolute wonderful experience! I still communicate with my enrollment advisor at least once a month if not more. She was never too pushy at the beginning even when I was unsure about enrolling. One thing I have learned about any university is that it is your responsibility to ensure your paperwork is in order. I did a followup on my degree progress and found elective courses which I had transferred in that were eligible to be part of my general ed. requirements. I notified the registrar and now they are properly applied where they belong and in the process I have opened up electives which I can begin the smart track for my Master's degree. As long as you are a dedicated person the professors will work with you. All of the professors I have had were very responsive..some provide you with phone #'s and some don't, but you will always be able to contact them via email. No matter where you go to school you will find professors that you love, like, or hate and honestly I have found I love all of them. I worked for my grades...raising 3 children, with a home to take care of and a husband who works two jobs. I am full-time mommy, wife, and homemaker. This has been the best way for me to obtain my degree and I am loving every minute of it! I am not eligible for FASFA so I have Stafford loans which take care of all of the cost except for the books. There is a one time 990.00 tech fee which takes care of the entire degree and it is posted during your second class. There is no group work...it's all individual. All homework is either due on Thurs.(typically two discussion posts with APA documentation at least from the book) or Monday (responses to at least two of your classmates in both post and papers). Every BAOM course has a 3-5 page paper due in the second week of class, a rough draft of the final reflective paper due on the third week of class, and the 8 page reflective paper due on the last day of class during week 5. I love how it feels to know that in 5 weeks I earn 3 credits. I never feel that 15 week drag like in traditional programs (and I have taken courses at 4 different colleges in the past 15 years). I am now 7 courses away from my degree and I feel like I have learned so much and accomplished so much. I even was able to apply my Spanish credits toward a concentration in Spanish. (I used to be a Spanish major in the college I obtained the majority of my transferred credits along with a study abroad experience in Mexico which they also accepted). If you are a motivated person who is eager to obtain a degree and work hard for it...Ashford is the best online school. As with anything you want in life you have to give it your all..and I was able to do that while still having a life and a family!
Dont fall for this ..
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: hib
(Graduate) on September 25, 2008
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Ashford is a joke. Don’t make the same mistakes I made. It is a money making scam. The degree is worthless in the job market. It is so bad I am thinking about retaking the courses from other school. Wasted my money and time. Posting comments 3 times a week really hasn’t done anything for me. Prior to enrolling to the school I was expecting to see recorded lectures at least. But I was wrong Ashford has none of that. And program is expensive… I am strongly against from anyone to signing up for this school.
Good School
MBA
Reviewer: acurr2002
(Degree In Progress) on September 23, 2008
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Overall I am Happy with Ashford, I have read most of these post, and find that the most disgruntled students are the ones that are seeking finantial aid. I have never had to deal with that side so cannot comment on it. The military and my company have paid for 90% of my education, and would not pay if Ashford was not acredited..... This is a good institution, I have never had any problem getting a hold of anyone. They might not return your call in the next 5 minutes, but they do get back to you. I am in my 8th class working toward an MBA.
I Love Ashford!
Organizational Management
Reviewer: vikinggirl88
(Degree In Progress) on September 12, 2008
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I started at Ashford in April, 2008. At first, I got frustrated with the online thing but the tech support department is great at walking you through the steps to do what you need to do. The Financial Department is wonderful. The Academic Advisor I have is so helpful. I would not change schools now for anything.
Excellent Choice
Healthcare Administration
Reviewer: athleticgurl77
(Degree In Progress) on September 9, 2008
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I am in my ninth course at Ashford and I am thoroughly enjoying myself. I really think it is horrible that people say such mean things about this wonderful school. I must agree that the first course (EXP 105) was easy, and there were some students taking the course that did not speak fluent English. The second course (PSY 202) was a bit harder and I was able to gradually see the attendance dropping as the curriculum became more advanced. Now, being in my ninth course, I can honestly say that I miss those first few easy courses. Right now I'm taking Literature, and I've had just about all I can take on Shakespere and Hamlet! The book for this course is titled, Literature: Reading Fiction, Poetry, and Drama - I'm not joking when I tell you that this book has 2,235 pages (more pages than the Bible). This has been my biggest text book so far and the hardest course yet. My next course is PHI 107 and I'm looking forward to it because I love philosophy (not literature!). I believe that anyone who actually stays at Ashford for more than the first couple of courses, will feel they have invested in a quality education. As for those who have called Ashford a "diploma mill," you have to make it through the first two courses before your exposed to the advanced stages of your college education. The first two are basically a warm-up to prepare you for what's to come. I was a little worried initially, but I'm extremely happy now (I love a good challenge). The most exciting thing about Ashford is that I have the option of flying to Clinton, Iowa to walk across Ashford's graduation stage with the rest of my class. I couldn't be more elated, GO SAINTS!
run very fast away from this school
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: wj52732
(Degree In Progress) on August 28, 2008
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This school is so screwed up, I used to work there and take classes there. I actually took classes before i started working there. Wow what a mistake that was. It took me 7 months to get fin aid. They never told me about all the hidded fees. The classes are ok if you want to learn about writing papers on the subject of your choice. I went to work there and thought well that i could get my education for free as the perk of working there. Again very wrong, only if you enroll atleast 4 students every week. If you dont get your job done, they will pull you out of the class and then make you pay for it. They treat there students horrible, they make you ask them any type of personal information to use against the students, its what called AMMUNITION against so you can black mail them to stay into class. They will take any student that they can get enrolled, and if the student doenst send there transcript request page in, then they will hound for it, or they will just forge it them selves. If you dont believe me, after you apply, dont send them your transcript request page in for a couple days and see how many phone calls you get, even from personal cells,(which is not allowed by the higher learning comission). They will help you through the first class and then drop you to an academic advisor who has already about 400 active students, that they work with. If you are going into the education program, make sure you check with your state and let them know its online. The same state with the school(Iowa) will not except the program if it is taken online, the state education will only except the campus degree. This school is a joke, i quit working there because of ethics, not becuase i couldnt talk someone into an application. They treat their employess like crap and they have thier employess lie to students. Dont you think if they were reptuable school, that they would monitor phone calls, they dont, they can say anything that they want to students, and most of them will. Just to hit their goal. They have such a turn over rate that they are starting a busing system so that they can hit the bigger towns about 40 minutes away. Casue they cant keep employees in Clinton where the campus is located. this school has been under previous name, former Phoneix online employess had decided to start their own, so they bought a school that has been open since 1918, and through the name ashford university on it. What a joke, i would suggest that you use a local university for online, and make sure you read a much as possible before enrolling in this school and other school that you are looking at.
I Understand Some of the Frustration, but...
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Kaldenbach
(Graduate) on August 26, 2008
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When it comes to attending college, you get out of it what you put into it; with this I agree. I was initially concerned that some of the people in class did not appear to belong, but as things progressed I noticed that those people tended to drop out and the cumulative competency of the students rose. Isn't this at least part of what college is all about, to weed out the folks that cannot perform? And to be truthful, administrative support at the school needs work, but the school is growing at a break-neck pace, which may be contributing to the problems people are experiencing. Another thing that struck me was that a lot of the difficulties communicating had to do with the fact that for a number of students, English was a second language, which probably made conversational postings a little difficult. Just because people have difficulty speaking your language it doesn’t mean that they are stupid. There have been accusations that Ashford is a degree mill. I believe this to be utterly false. People going through the motions or trying to buy degrees is not unique to an institution like Ashford. I know of students at prestigious traditional schools (I pay through the nose so my son can attend TCU, so I have a frame of reference) that cheat on their assignments and do as little as possible to get through, so you get losers in all kinds of environments, even the high-priced institutions. Regarding the quality of the program (which should be your primary concern), the curriculum at every regionally accredited school is evaluated and must meet minimum standards to qualify for recognition. Ashford is a regionally accredited school, so if you are willing to put in the time and effort, you'll come out of the experience a better-educated and better-rounded individual. Anyway, as I moved through the program, my appreciation and respect for Ashford increased; I came to believe that my success was contingent on my effort. I put in the effort, so I succeeded. I am now poised to choose a graduate school and after talking to several admissions counselors, my initial concerns with Ashford have been erased. It is a respected institution, so feel confident in your decision to attend. And take a few minutes each week to follow your school’s sports teams! I know the school is small and doesn’t compete in Division 1, but it is nice to have a traditional school to identify with and sports teams to cheer for. Go Saints!!
You can buy your degree
Teaching and Learning with Technology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on August 6, 2008
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Many of the students who remained and graduated were already in positions at their perspective school and basically paid for Master's in order to increase their pay. Student that are trying for a new career change or trying to get a new job. If you are trying to learn in order to perform at a job. FOTGET! Posting three times a week and writing a paper is not going to get it. The staff support is horrible. Like I said you can buy your degee to increase your salary, you will be happy. Just don't plan on learning anything.
Happy so far
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: jerrshoe
(Degree In Progress) on August 1, 2008
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I'm currently in my third class and I'm pretty happy so far. The only recommendation I have for the school is to pre screen it's applicants a little bit. I almost dropped out my first class because of the intelligence levels of some of my classmates. They could not read, write, email, or communicate in any way. I understand this school wants to make money and eventually these people will fail out...problem solved, but it was pretty ridiculous! You would see a sentence like: "i thinc this clas Is good cause It teches me to thinc!" To anyone that wants a real education, the above statement is a joke. After the first couple of classes though, you start to see the riff raff filter out and the classes become more serious.
Navy Girl LOVES Ashford
Organizational Management
Reviewer: roro2315
(Degree In Progress) on June 24, 2008
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I have to start off by saying that I've had a pretty great experience so far with Ashford. I'm currently in my third class (Management 330) and I'm really enjoying myself. I'm in the Navy and I needed a school that would accept my SMART credits, and work around my ridicules schedule. Besides the reading, I've really enjoyed the classes. I have to say that the EXP105 class was way to easy and a bit of a waste. I actually enjoyed PSY202. My enrollment advisor was awesome, so I'm sorry to hear that others have had bad experiences. She told me what to expect and gave me everything I needed to start my TA and order my books. She even explained how to get a waiver after my TA runs out. She did call a lot in the beginning, but at least I never forgot to go to class :). I've come to the conclusion that you can have a bad experience anywhere. You have to know what you are getting yourself into. Nothing is free in life and you are a fool if you think it is. On that note, I have to do a huge 3 page paper. :)
A+ for Ashford
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on June 19, 2008
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Ashford offers an excellent program designed to aide the most time-challenged of us, to receive a degree. I've personally examined a number of on-line programs, and Ashford is, by far, the best. My advisors have always been responsive and articulate in their discussions with me in reference to any issue I may be having over my time at Ashford. There are issues with every on-line program because technology is continually changing, but that is to be expected. I would recommend Ashford to anyone looking to finish a degree without a huge financial burden at the end. Apply yourself to the program, accept the challenge of the information technology environment and you will be successful. Good luck to all of you who decide to try the Ashford program, you won't be disappointed.
Waiting to see
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on June 11, 2008
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I personally think that things are excellent at Ashford. I am a little concerned about the students that they allow in the class. I'm only at the end of my first class, but some of the students can't spell, write, or communicate clearly in any way. There should be some sort of test with a minimum requirement. Without it, the average to above average students think they are wasting their time.
Awful Ashford
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on June 5, 2008
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i was enrolled there for my BS in psycology. my advice is to run in the other direction. nothing but headaches. expensive headaches. The professors are decent human beings but for everyone in the office WATCH OUT. these are the folks handling all your paperwork. I had to get an attorney involved to straighten out their mess.
Disgruntle Student
Teaching and Learning with Technology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on June 4, 2008
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After six weeks, they still don't have answers to anything. Where is my money? Don't know. Where is my academic advisor? Don't know? What books do I need? Don't know. How much will I receive after you deduct for three classes ? Don't know. When will I return ? Never. When will you guys return my telephone calls? Never Well do you need to hear more? Cause I,ve got more, but I am in the process of looking for another school . Have a Blessed day.!!
Go Saints!
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: aubahca
(Degree In Progress) on June 4, 2008
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I'm in my 7th course at Ashford and I'm loving it. My endeavors here started off fairly easy but now I have major academic writing assignments due every other week. In most classes, instructors have been great. I say most because one of professors knocked off 30 points because I turned my research paper in one day late. The rest of them only deducted 10 points a day with a 3-day maximum late penalty. I don't have a hard time staying busy and I've learned a lifetimes worth of knowledge. Ten page research papers force you to apply yourself-whether you want to or not. Warning-every course has at least 2 major writing assignments. If they aren't submitted, you will fail. Everything must be in standard APA style and follow Ashford academic guidelines-which are entailed in a 300 page Ashford academic writing guideline book that is sent to you with your first textbook purchase. The first paper I had to write was on plagiarism. Ashord makes it well known that their instructors have access to all these different software programs that detect if your using someone else's words as your own. They are very serious about this and threaten to expell any who plagiarizes. To keep my GPA above 3.75, I have seriously had to work hard. I'm going to be very pround of my Ashford degree.
Good School
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on May 28, 2008
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I have found that at times they get AU namesake on some of the text books that you are scared to purchase outside of the school in fear of missing something...other than that the school has been a pleasure. Instructors are very helpful and treat you with respect. This is a good school for the money.
Happier Here
Organizational Management
Reviewer: neal.lampi
(Degree In Progress) on May 27, 2008
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I have attend community college in California, University of Phoenix, ground and on-line, and now I am happily enrolled and making good progress toward completing my BA, I have one year left, and will stay for my post graduate work. If I could go to a bricks and mortar campus, I would, it is undoubtedly preferable. My second choice was and is now Ashford; I am enjoying having the same academic advisor as when I started last October, the same financial aid advisor, and most of all I enjoy being liberated from University of Phoenix Learning Teams. No school is perfect I have found fault here as well, but I will earn my education and will be able to proudly announce it on my resume.
Outstanding!!!!
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on May 22, 2008
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I am currently pursuing my BA in Organizational Management through Ashford. I have had a couple hangups with various steps of financial aid (mostly due to my own error, admittedly), but overall I am very satisfied with the convenience and affordability of Ashford. Sure, they are a for-profit school, but any endowed academy is certainly not in the business to lose money, are they? I've noticed many people have commented on the support system and how it takes so much effort to contact and/or get an advisor to respond to phone calls, emails, or what have you. My advice? Save any and all emails from your advisors. If you have a problem, reply to any one of them, CC to every other advisor you have, and word your complaint strongly (yet tactfully), and you will get a timely response. Case-in-point, I qualify for the military grant, which means $750 per course instead of $990 for level 200+ courses, and $0 for the tech fee. I noticed after my second class that I was not given the military grant, nor was I discounted the tech fee. I politely responded to my academic advisor's last email detailing the problem. I CC'd my enrollment advisor, Vince, my financial advisor, Daniel, as well as my work email. I received a response at noon eastern the next day (it was midnight when I sent the email). Last week, I found that my account was still not in-line, so without being overly frustrated, I completed the same process, this time also CC'ing Ashford's VA coordinator. My account was credited that same day. As for the professors, all of mine I've had so far have been extremely insightful, supportive, and knowledgeable. Much more so than the in-person college I attended in 2002. Go Saints!
Good, Maybe needs Improvement
Organizational Management
Reviewer: FILHASHOPE
(Degree In Progress) on May 15, 2008
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I hae read most of the reviews. I agree with most in some way. I do however think overall, this is a good school. All things considered, it is good. I don't understand how some people are saying they have not bheen able to get in touch with anyone. I never have a problem at all. Email does seem to work the best but even when I have called and left a message, I got a return witin a day. I will say the financial aid part is VERY vague. I do feel like they are purposely not explaining total cost. I was shocked to get the $990.00 technology fee during my second course. No one explained that to me. I know I am responsible to read my catalog, but really, that should be pointed out. One other thing is that I had to be very insistant on not wanting to take any outstanding general education courses with them. They just enroll you in courses without any explanation. I am taking those few general education courses at the community college to save money and do not want to pay for them at Ashford! My degree audit was sent to me and then resent and were different. I called and spoke to my advisor and she said she had no idea what I was looking at, so I emailed her back her original email (that was funny) to show her what she had done. She did not apologize for the error or admit it, she juwt looked and basically said that I didn't understand what the first one said. I then nicely let her have it and only then did she "realize" there was a mistake and she better drop me from my current class because I did not need it. All in all, here's the thing. Not matter what university y0u attend they will all have their problems. I don't see fraud at any level, just people doing business. As a student, it is our responsibility to keep on top of our paperwork and ASK QUESTIONS. Yes, they will make mistakes. We will make mistakes. Just keep on top of them. We are paying for an education. Being online students, we reallly aren't paying for an experience or we would have done that right after high school!
Once you begin to take classes...staff disappears
Teaching and Learning with Technology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on May 6, 2008
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I know what you think when you normally read these poor reviews...disgruntled student that failed out. First class- 98%...second- 88%. Poor communication by staff. They do not return calls. When I say they do not return calls, I mean never! They will get you enrolled as quickly as possible by using the "assume the sale" tactics and tell you not to worry, financial aid will cover your classes. Go ahead. Enroll and try it. By the way, the "online classes" you take go through San Diego, NOT CLINTON, IA, as they deceive you into believing. BEWARE!!!
Overall Satisfied with Asford
Organizational Management
Reviewer: mizzmax19
(Degree In Progress) on April 27, 2008
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I will be graduating from Ashford in September of this year and have been satisfied with the classes overall. I always received my books and enjoyed many of the instructors teaching method and instructional feedback. One thing I can agree on with the negative posts is that it is sometimes hard to get in touch with the advisors and the Financial Aid dept. My sister just graduated (we both major in Organizational Management) and she still has not been able to get a hold of the advisor regarding a hold placed on her financial record. Taking the classes are no different than attending other colleges or universities. I transferred from ITT and THAT was a horrible experience. That school DID take people with little or no education and I thought I was in the twilight zone. Overall, I feel that I am truly earning my degree and I look forward to continuting with the Masters program.
Happy with Ashford University's online MBA program
MBA
Reviewer: 88gmale88
(Degree In Progress) on April 24, 2008
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I'm in the middle of the MBA program at Ashford University. First of all, I'd like to say that I've been pleasantly surprised by the quality of the program so far. As someone who earned their bachelor's degree at a traditional campus school, I was a little apprehensive about going to class online. But I've found the program to be quite challenging, yet not so difficult as to be frustrating. Everytime I need help, my instructors are there to help me. Also, my advisor (Bill) was extremely helpful when I first enrolled. He answered all my concerns about going to school online including the cost, how long it would take to graduate, the admissions process, etc. He always makes himself available if I'm having issues. I know from reading other reviews online that not everyone has had a similar experience with their advisor. So I would recommend anyone who is interested in learning more about Ashford to contact him. His email address is william.saltmarsh@ashford.edu. I'm sure he can help you out. Anyways...I'm pretty pleased with my experience so far. I have recommended the program to some of my colleagues and I know at least two of them have joined me at the school so far.
Ashford University
Social Science/Education
Reviewer: thecusacks
(Degree In Progress) on April 15, 2008
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Ashford University has been wonderfully challenging and has enabled me to complete my BA on my own terms. I have 2 small boys that I stay home with and could not leave to go to a regular college. We do not even have one that offers a 4 year degree anywhere me. I am quickly going through the program and find the 5 week classes perfect. I will be a proud graduate of this school in October.
Wonderful School
Teaching and Learning with Technology
Reviewer: my_secretary
(Degree In Progress) on April 7, 2008
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Ashford is a wonderful school! I agree totally that the fact that it is online makes for a thorough educational experience. When you are responsible for passing those exams (without looking at your student's paper) and not getting help from study groups: this absolutely makes for a competitive and challenging environement that puts you to a test -- this school is far more better than any other school I've attended with a campus. Here at Ashford, you will walk away with a valuable education and knowledge that you will be able to integrate in just about every instance of your real life! This is a great school and I'd recommend it to anyone looking to challenge themselves, advance themselves and truly be ALL THAT YOU CAN BE!!!
So far, so good
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on April 2, 2008
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I have read over the reviews, both good and bad, and would like to voice my opinion. I am currently a mother of 4 children, aging 12, 11, 8 and 17 months, and have our last on the way, due in June. I have had a very positive experience, thus far. My enrollment advisor has been exceptionally helpful. I think my husband gets annoyed that he actually calls so much, anywhere from once to 3 times a week. Anytime I email him, I immediately get a response (always that same day, except Sundays). He calls to make sure everything is going well, and asks if there is anything I need. As for the financial aid, mine is still in process, due to the fact that I've been selected for verification. So I should know more about this soon. Regarding books, I've always received them in a timely manner. Once I've ordered, I've received them within 3-5 days. Pretty good, I think. The instructor I've had has been wonderful. She responds in a timely manner. I have had a great experience so far. If there are any problems, I will be sure to let everyone know, but as of now, it's been great! I would highly recommend this university to anyone.
Poor feedback from instructors
Organizational Management
Reviewer: scott534
(Degree In Progress) on March 26, 2008
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I am now in my 6th class at Ashford University. I am 42 years old and have been in my current career for 18 years. I was looking for an online environment that was challenging but still allowed me to be flexible. There has been several issues with ordering books. My last class they actually ran out of the books in the bookstore, and they did not arrive until the 4th week. I now make sure to order the books weeks ahead of time, using ebay or amazon to save money. The online environment, what they call "blackboard" is extremely confusing and took me several classes to become comfortable with. My academic advisor, (I was switched to her with no notification) is ok. She will never answer her phone however, so I must always wait for a call back-which can be difficult during the day as I work full time. My instructors have been great up to my last class. They have been very easy to communicate with, have provided a phone number to call them if needed, and have seemed fair with the grades. I bust my butt to keep an "A" average and my work has paid off.....so far.... My last instructor for a basic computer class-INF 103-was Melanie. She was horrible. She was rude to students in responding to issues (she would cc the entire class when she responded to a student regarding a computer issue-it was completely rude and unprofessional), she was pretty much non existent during the class, I had to ask for a review on one of my projects where she deducted points (she then realized she had screwed up and had to change my grade), she refused to explain her feedback and/or offer assistance with her grading criteria, she refused to allow any communication via telephone, and she was rude and very arrogant in her emails. I would not recommend her for any classes with Ashford. I realize that not all instructors are like Melanie, just like all bosses and fellow employees in the workplace are not always ethical. But I am paying good money for this education, and she was unacceptable. Although I received an overall B+ for the class, I am lodging a formal complaint against her for her ethics as an instructor. I am not asking for my grade to be changed, but I am asking for action to be taken against her by the University. We'll see...... I am sticking with my schooling for now, as not one bad instructor does a school make-however, one more instructor like Melanie and I will go elsewhere.
psychology student
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: crashh_007
(Degree In Progress) on March 19, 2008
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I am absolutely amazed at the education I am receiving from Ashford University. I have learned more in my (just over a) year here then I did when (physically) attending another school after high school. The staff is great, the instructor are fabulous, and my adviser is a god send. I can not wait to graduate but in a way I will be sad, I will be sad that this wonderful experience will be over. I recommend that all of those who are serious about going back and who are committed to doing this check out Ashford. It's been the best decision of my life.
scammed and ruined by Ashford
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: akamaz
(Degree In Progress) on March 18, 2008
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I was completely scammed by Ashford University. It is most likely my biggest regret in my life. I had already completed a degree at another school that I physically attended and had on line classes also. I graduated on the Deans List and Honor Roll and even had our second child while studying, working hard and getting A's. Then after our 3rd child was born I wanted to further my education. I simply called Ashford for some info and was hunted down everyday as if the recruiter (aka ADVISER) was a bloodhound. I finally gave in and after they received the student loan papers-got their money-the adviser fell off the face of the earth. No one returned my phone calls when I had trouble with not receiving books etc...and now I'm in collections for an additional $2,000. in fee's that were never mentioned to me at all from the bloodhound (in addition to the student loans). It has ruined my credit and is now trickling down to the rest of my interest rates because of this. They are harassing everyone in my family and there is nothing that I can do. I consider myself an intelligent person and I can't believe I feel for the used car salesman tactic. Just an example: this adviser even said to me "do you want to be a mom who never furthered her education? What a disappointment" I still can't believe it-I should have hung up and changed my phone number.
Graduation feels good
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Graduate) on February 20, 2008
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I thought Ashford was a great school. I got a BS in Org Management with a concentration in Education. It was challenging but books and starting was easy. If you want to get your degree, and are organized enough to work from home you can get you degree. I also noticed that Ashford was ranked in the fourth tier. I don't think I saw any other online schools on the list. I have noticed people fall from classes. Many want a walk in the park and a degree certificate. If you want it get. I did. My advisor always answered me within 24 hours and almost always answered the phone (I ask a lot of questions!) Slightly annoying items were they changed Blackboard. Some days now it seems slow but they are fixing it. They have custom texts. Some of the text books could have been more learners friendly. Black and White no index etc. It would be nice if more instructors used some type of PowerPoint or presentation for lecture. Some do some don't. It goes back to you have the same stuff at colleges (brick and mortar) But, I saved time and got more done from home.
Positive Experience
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on February 18, 2008
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I am currently enrolled with Ashford to obtain my Bachelor's in Psychology. I am not very far along as of yet but I was curious about how others feel/felt about Ashford so I decided to Google it and see what I could find. I read through most of the posts, both good and bad, and I have to weigh in with my opinion. I see quite a bit about not getting responses back and having difficulty with money and/or feedback. I have to say that I'm about to enter my fourth class and I've not experienced any problems with communication, feedback or money. I am a FAFSA student and I've not received any invoices or calls from them asking for money. I am receiving responses from any and all Ashford staff members in a timely manner and thus far all of my professors have been quick to respond to my posts and emails. I will agree that the classes seem pretty easy but I am a fairly good student and enjoy the classes. This is a tremendous help with passing. If you are not enjoying the class or enjoy attending school you will struggle, no matter what school you choose. Not every student is finding the classes easy but they are sticking with it. I don't expect every class to be this way. I will also agree with one of the posts that the grammar from a lot of the students is horrendous and I'm very surprised that these individuals have made it through life in general, let alone any job they are currently working or previously held. However, I have seen comments by the instructors about those errors and that they are in danger of receiving low grades. We are only allowed to see our own grades so these postings that claim you pass anyway, I don't know how they know this to be fact as they do not have access to other student's grades. They are assuming they are passing. As far as not receiving full credit for posts because of not meeting criteria, it is clearly defined what is required of us for posts. If you do not meet the criteria you do not receive full credit. I have received full credit for every post I've written. I am maintaining an A average because I am applying myself. It is my opinion that the students who are complaining about Ashford and their way of doing things were expecting it to be smooth sailing and easy to get a degree, simply by showing up and doing as little as possible. I'm betting those same people do the very same thing on their jobs as well and wonder why they aren't being promoted and/or losing their jobs. Ashford, so far, has been a positive experience for me. Apply yourself and do your best and stop worrying about other students. Get your degree and be proud of yourself for sticking with it. Don't quit because it takes a little hard work and then bash the school because you didn't apply yourself and weren't handed a degree.
ASHFORD WAS GREAT!!!!!
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Graduate) on February 18, 2008
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Going to Ashford was the best decision I've ever made! They accepted all 82 of my transferable units, 30 being from military work experience. I was able to finish my degree in a year and 7 months and felt that I received an excellent education. The financial aid process went smoothly and I had great communication with my advisors. This is one of the most affordable online Universities out there!!! I was able to graduate with minimal debt. As for technology, if you know how to navigate the internet you will have no problem accessing the online classroom. I am proud to be an Ashford Graduate!
Online students please beware!
Organizational Management
Reviewer: mrstashaguy
(Degree In Progress) on February 14, 2008
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I thought that the bad reviews were from people who did not try or didn't do what needed to be done...I was sadly wrong. I wasted about $3000 at this school, time and the ability to graduate in the timeline I had set for myself. The bad reviews are there for a reason and please consider what these people (as well as myself) have been through. Everything started off fine but, after that first class, there was no communication, it was hard to receive return phone calls and I believe they know they are doing something wrong if they are going to charge you a 990.00 technology fee after you start your second class, when all the other schools will break it down over the course of your enrollment. Proffesors never called back or responded to my emails and your advisor will drop your class and tell you to take it over, as if money grows on trees. I have a lot of concerns with this school and I am very upset not only because of the money but now I have to go through the whole process of finding another school and making sure they will provide me with the financial aid needed. If you are a on-campus student maybe its a good school but for those online PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE BEWARE!
Not satisfied at all. Poor communication
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on February 12, 2008
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The enrollment advisors are like car salesmen with tricks up their sleeves. I am sorry - I know there must be some great ones out there, but the joke of an advisor I got has tained my entire experience. My advisor (initials I.Q.)gave me the whole speech, the pitch, and I was sold, which is fine by me, I want to be excited going to school. Well.. after I enrolled was the day I stopped hearing from him. COMPLETELY. I must have called him up to 5 times a day during my first week of school and he never returned my calls. Left msg's over the weekend. Heard nothing back. Sent up to 4 emails a day (cc'ing everyone, the financial aid people on it to) and NO ONE ever returned my email/call in a timely fashion. I was very disapointed. I ended up quitting the first week because they pushed me to enroll and get started without figuring out how to pay for it. When I told them my financial information (Very detailed) they claimed I would get nearly everything paid for. When I actually got my Fasfa results, I didn't get JACK. I then was already in my 2nd day of classes, and not knowing how to pay for school, and no one would return my calls. So I finally called a manager of another office (where their brick n' mortar school - their internet/online degree advisors are all in a seperate building located in California) and she told me how to quite without getting charged. So far I haven't gotten a bill, I quite within 1 week (so no charge as long as you don't sign in more than 3 times). But Financial Aid did call me the other day and left a msg. Who knows what they want now. Now they call, when I don't want them anymore. Be ill-advised to sign up. My experience has been they are conning you until you enroll, then you really don't hear from your advisor again.
A joke to say the least - don't be duped!
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on February 6, 2008
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I enrolled at the college, letting them know that I would not be able to afford to attend without financial aid. They said it would be no problem. They enrolled me before my aid was approved and never told me when I started or how to order books. I received an email from the professor welcoming me to the class that began that day. I had no books! It took twenty phone calls, 30 emails, and 6 months to get my aid, and then it didn't cover very much at all. They also charged me a $990 technical fee that I was never informed of. I'm wasting time and money just trying to get ahold of someone. It takes weeks to hear from advisors, they are heavily understaffed and teachers are not very helpful. The only advantage to taking courses from this school is that they are eager to enroll you. I DO NOT recommend this school to anyone who does not have money to spare!
Great Way to Complete Your Degree
Organizational Management
Reviewer: carolelittle2000
(Graduate) on February 5, 2008
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Ashford made it possible for me to finally complete my degree 30 years after dropping out in my junior year for medical reasons. Although I had attempted to go back many times, I was always told that very few of my credits from Boston University would transfer because it was a private school and because it was so long ago. Ashford accepted more than half of my credits and in addition accepted CLEP and DANTES. As a working mother, taking one full time accelerated course every 6 weeks allowed me to finish my degree so that I can now pursue a graduate degree. My enrollment counselor, Jessica Abbott, was wonderful as was my advisor, Kami Bear and the registrar's assistant, Renee Farrell. I found the coursework rigorous and the burden was definitely on me to stay on track, do the reading and complete the assignments by the due dates. I had to order my books for the next course around half way through the current course to be sure to have them in time. Half the time, I could find them on Ebay or Amazon for a fraction of the price and saved a few dollars. I did have occasion to follow up on a few speed bumps however they were resolved both timely and fairly. As a mother of a 19 year old college student, I can tell you that I have had to advocate and assist my son a few times to navigate the system in a well known, top notch, private institution as things occasionally fall through the cracks. As with anything in life, you get out of Ashford, what you put in to it. I studied an average of two to three hours daily, sometimes more on the weekends when papers or additional assignments were given and when I slacked off so did my grades. Some teachers were very engaged, some were so so and some started off very strong and disappeared towards the end but I still was held accountable for the assignments and had to demonstrate knowledge gained from the course content and other sources. I highly recommend Ashford University as an affordable, good university for any non traditional student wishing to round out their education to match their experience. I am very proud of my Ashford Diploma.
Proud to be an Ashford Alum
Organizational Management
Reviewer: phipsijuice
(Graduate) on January 29, 2008
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I don't understand how someone could have a bad experience? The process of enrollment, ordering books and taking classes online is quite simple. If you are computer literate, motivated and disciplined with your time you should have no problems. I recently graduated with a BA in Organizational Management. My experience with Asford has been excellent. I was skeptical at first, but I did plenty of research and decided Ashford fit my needs. I originally transferred 75 credits(the maximim allowed at the time)from a traditional campus university I had attended. Ashford eventually raised the maximum number of transferrable credits to 99 which I took adavantage of, and I graduated sooner than expected. I have made the decision to continue my education with Ashford, enrolling in their MAOM program. I highly recommend Ashford University.
Great University!
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: thecusacks
(Degree In Progress) on January 26, 2008
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I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience. I am actually in the BASS/Ed program (Social Science with Education Concentration). I feel that I will receive my BA with more of an understanding of pedagogy and general information relevant to my subject area of choice. I have always received attention and was able to transfer in 57 credits with no problem. I also used the PLA option and have sped up my degree.
It is still a nightmare
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on January 22, 2008
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I am not happy at all with Ashford. I took one class, no problem, then the second class I ordered the books well in advance and didn't recieve them until 4 wks into the class. My advisor told me to drop the class and enroll in the next one coming up. I wasn't told that they would charge me for the class they told me to drop. Then while taking the class again I finally got ahold of The Dept of Education in my State and was told that the classes that I was taking would not transfer in my state, so I didn't finish the class. Now Ashford has had their collection agency trying to collect $2,100 for the two classes. I had gotten a federal grant and the money went right to them. I was just trying to better myself and now I have a huge debt that I got nothing out of. If anyone has any advice or has had any similar situations with Ashford, I would really appreciate hearing from you!!
Good Choice
Social Science :: Psychology
Reviewer: crunchy4god
(Degree In Progress) on January 3, 2008
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I'm a Psychology major at Ashford. I'm pursuing my doctoral and I'm getting my undergraduate education at Ashford. The faculty have been extremely supportive. The curriculum is based on a conceptual framework where subject matter and laboratory experiences are given in good sequence. I have found it to be logically organized and internally consistent. I'm pleased by the abstract guidelines they use for developing the carriculum. This college has plenty of value.
Ashford is an excellent choice!
Organizational Management
Reviewer: admin
(Graduate) on January 2, 2008
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My overall experience with Ashford was excellent (July 2005 - July 2007). I was able to transfer in all of my credits which enabled me to finish in two years. The classes were well organized and required a lot of self discipline and time management to get through. I can't say the content was necessarily difficult but then again, the major I was in - Organizational Management wasn't necessarilly rocket science either. However I did learn new things from each and every class which have been very helpful in carrying over into my career in many aspects. I have to say 90% of the classes I had were awesome and the teachers were attentive, knowlegable and some even inspiring but there were a few where they weren't around much which resulted in the class not being so great. But keep in mind that you can run into poor professors on campus as well....as I did this past semester at an "excellent" on campus university. As far as my advisor, he did an excellent job, returned all of my phone calls and was very helpful. Additionally, the financial people were well orgainized and did an excellent job as well. So yeah, overall - a great experience and I'm happy to have chosen Ashford! Tonya G.
Don't listen to those other fools
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on December 22, 2007
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The individuals who gave their sour grapes opinion probably have a special ax to grind. I am a mature learner and have enjoyed every minute of my experience at Ashford U. I am highly educated in another field and Ashford has given me the opportunity to change my vocational plans without disrupting my life. The price was right, the loans are easy, the financial department at Ashford has been very supportive. My counselor calls me often, sends me emails, reminds me of things I need to remember and is very helpful, will always answer the phone. (Thanks G.S.) The classes are quick paced so you have to organize yourself or you will be behind. Most of my learning comes from reading and internet research. You must like to read! Participation in the discussions can be enlightening with opinions from around the nation. It gives one a taste for how other people think in this country. My only complaint is the same complaint I have with other schools...BOOKS ARE TOO EXPENSIVE! But, that isn't Ashford's fault. I would say this school meets my needs.
Great Professors
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: angelnurseyup
(Degree In Progress) on December 21, 2007
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I'm a student at Ashford and so far everything has been great. Keeping up with the reading has been the biggest challenge. My professors have been great. My acedemic advisor has been a great help by keeping me posted on the courses that remain to fulfill all of my degree requirements. Attendence is a big issue with Ashford. If you miss 2 days during the course, you won't get credit. These policies are strictly enforced so if you think you will be missing class due to other obligations/illness, then I wouldn't choose this school. After navigating through blackboard and becoming familiar with all of the assignment procedures, everything seems to be going smoothly. What I have noticed is that some classes are harder than others and the same goes for pleasing the professors. My acedimics advisor has been very helpful in keeping me posted for future class scheduling and has also provided me with helpful resources for getting discount textbooks. My experience has been pleasant and I'm looking forward to my graduation.
Financial Thieves
Teaching and Learning with Technology
Reviewer: kingcatalyst
(Graduate) on December 6, 2007
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Got my master's from Ashford. It was insanely easy & not slightly challenging. I think the professors were housewives working part time. The books were nothing special. The blackboard sessions were laughably simple. Wouldn't have finished it if I wanted a challenge, but needed the degree to get certified. Why else did I rate the school so insanely low? Their financial aid department is insanely inept and shady. Shady!!! They've been avoiding reimbursing my lender the money they received that I didn't use. I've been calling them and arguing with them for months. One of the women who work there actually told me to call the ombudsman and report them. These were the words of an employee!!! I've reported them to the feds and I'm still paying student loan payments that are more than double what they should be. Stay away unless you're desperate for a degree and want an easy one, but pay in cash.
Excellent Education
Teaching and Learning with Technology
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Graduate) on December 5, 2007
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The first two weeks of class was a testimony to any online learning format. My class began with 33 students and only 12 students graduated. It is humorous to see the comments about the format and school from those who left the program. My education was facilitated by excellent instructors(only one was questionable, but that could be the same on a ground campus)and the content was challenging. The discussion forums were difficult to keep up with, but that is the nature of education. I am a firm believer in programs that are learner-centered and not teacher-centered. Overall, my experience was phenomonal and the knowledge I was exposed to was invaluable. If you are self-motivated and ready for an endeavor as or more difficult then a traditional undergrad program, I would highly suggest you look into Ashford University online.
PLEASE listen, this is not a good school!
Organizational Management
Reviewer: schaaf3
(Degree In Progress) on November 20, 2007
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Being as objective as possible, my review is incredibly poor. I would not send my worst enemy to this 'college.' The first class I was told that I had to read EVERY post that was made. There were like 200+. Being an over-achiever, I tried. It was impossible. I asked the professor and he assured me that we were to read them all. I was freaking out. My admissions advisor encouraged me to hang in there. So, I did. However, I did not continue to try to read all the posts. The grammar as the other reviewer mentioned was horrendous. I could not believe what was going on in those message boards that I had tried to read so desperately. It was embarrassing. I stuck it out for the first class and received an A. The second class was ridiculous in another manner. I did all my work. I had good comments on all my posts from the 'instructor.' I thought all was going well. In the second week, I confidently decided to check my grades. To my shock and horror I had received only 3 out of 5 on all my posts that had nice reviews from the instructor. 3 out of 5 is not even passing. I wrote my instructor to find out why I was receiving such poor grades. I was following the same pattern that gave me an "A" in the first class. He sent back the general post requirements which I was meeting. I challenged him that I was meeting those requirements. He emailed back that I was turning my assignments in late. I copied all of my posts into an email with the dates on them. None were late. The Dean that I spoke with assured me that my posts would have received a poor grade in her class for various reasons. She would not again tell me specifically what was wrong with my posts. She finally said something about my posts not having citations from the book which was not in any of the guidelines and NO ONE in the class was doing. The dean is sure that it is most acceptable for an instructor not to tell a student why they are giving a certain grade and not to have a clue as to why they gave a certain grade. This would not be acceptable at any standard college or university. I have no idea how they are accredited. After all this, I have a letter from Ashford collections for several hundred dollars payable immediately because they sent back my student loan leaving a balance. I received the letter 5 days before it was due. I have been calling several times a day and get voicemail. No one has returned my calls.
For Idiots Only
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on November 18, 2007
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Great for the stupid, inept, lazy and incompetent masses. Horrible, horrible, horrible. I enrolled in Ashford a year ago and after a few classes, decided to leave. The professors are given a grading scale by the university so that no matter how horrible your assignments and weekly posts, even if you fail to meet minimum standards set forth by the professor, you still get at least partial credit! What happened to professors being able to tell students their work is far below sub-par and that they didn't come close to meeting acceptable college-level standards? What happened to NO CREDIT for abysmal effort? Ashford caters to the dumbest people around and cares nothing of academic quality or excellence. Great school if you're barely literate or never finished high school. Amazingly, a family member of mine with no high school diploma or GED was able to enroll here. Ashford allows almost any student, no matter how incompetent, to pass. Weekly required postings were often full of the same simple spelling and grammar errors, yet Ashford only allows for the deduction of a fraction of a point for this. Students are also only minimally penalized for writing like a fifth grader. There's no incentive to excel or try hard (aside from personal) because you'll pass no matter what. Now, a ton of complete idiots will receive degrees and will be reassured in their stupidity. Having attended a traditional university with stringent entrance requirements and high class performance expectations, I cannot believe the joke of an education Ashford is. I marvel at how they are able to maintain accreditation for their online program. Isn't college supposed to challenge the mind and encourage critical thinking? Most students can't critically think their way out of a paper bag. It's really as bad as some of the online message boards you stumble upon where the people clearly have little education. This proved true for 100 level as well as upper 300 level courses. If you hate idiots, stay far, far away.
Watch out - they're a for-profit school.
Organizational Management
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Degree In Progress) on November 8, 2007
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I enrolled in Ashford thinking that this would be a good school to finish my degree at. My enrollment adviser was wonderful, very helpful. My academic adviser was just about impossible to get in contact with, and my financial aid adviser forwarded all my questions on to other people to deal with. They messed up the paperwork for my private loan - you know, the one that's supposed to help you pay for life and books while you're taking classes. I submitted all the paperwork in June and today - November 8th - still have not received a penny. Now, because of a rule that no one told me about, I've been dropped from my classes and my program and will have to pay more money. If they could get their act together, I'm sure they would be a good school, but my experience has left me running in the other direction.
Ashford University
Organizational Management
Reviewer: profmijanovich
(Graduate) on November 6, 2007
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I found Ashford University to be a wonderful experience. After recieving my P.h.D in Engineering I found it necessary to change my direction in life to teaching and went back to school at Ashford to recieve a Degree in Management and now finishing up in the MA degree in Teaching. There are faults with every program, however I have found Ashford to be a traditional school of learning. On line education is a challange as it puts the responsibility on the student and thus if you need in class room support don't try online education.
Dr. Dennis Mijanovich
I love Ashford!
AA Business
Reviewer: lotaleg
(Degree In Progress) on September 7, 2007
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I initially enrolled with Ashford in May of 2006. I was able to transfer in with 30 credits from my local community college, which was great. Also, I LOVED the fact that I was easily able to take a 6 month leave of absence when I gave birth to my son in Sept. of 2006.
I am currently just a few months away from obtaining my AA in Business. As soon as I get my AA, I am then going to continue my education with Asford and pursue my BA in Psychology. So far, just about everything has been great. My enrollment advisor, Marcus Hillman, has been awesome! Even though his obligations to me ended after he got me signed up and enrolled in my first classes, he has continued to email me or give me a phone call every once in awhile just to see how I am doing and to give me encouragement. My academic advisor is Erik Peiperdink and he has also been amazing. I have bugged him SO many times with numerous questions, and he has always been great about responding to me right away. The one negative thing that I have experienced with Asford is their financial aid dept! They have switched my financial advisor on me several times...and each one that I have gotten has been awful. They never answer my questions, or if they do, it is usually the wrong answer that I am given.
All in all, the teachers have all been great, I have been learning ALOT in my classes, and I really enjoy the fact that I can work on my assignments when it is convenient for me and my hectic schedule. Also, I just noticed that Ashford was listed as one of "America's Best Colleges" by U.S. News and World Report, which I thought was awesome. As for the person on here who did not have a good expereince, what were the names of the teachers/advisors who weren't doing their job correctly? Because as I said, so far I have had great experiences with everyone at Ashford, with the exception of the financial aid department. I love this school and I cannot wait to fly out to Iowa in May of 2009 to receive my BA in Psychology!!!:) (I am not going to attend the ceremony for my AA...I am going to wait until I get my BA)
Highly recommended
Organizational Management
Reviewer: t.swavely
(Degree In Progress) on September 5, 2007
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I am currently enrolled in my seventh class at Ashford University, pursuing a bachelor of arts in organizational management online. So far, the program has been wonderful. Classes are five weeks in length, making them fast-paced and intense. Of course, the student gets out of it what he or she puts into it. Self-discipline, internal motivation, a strong desire to learn, and effective time-management skills are necessary for success. My first class at Ashford covered these personal skills and others, and presented stragies that help strengthen any weaknesses. Classes at Ashford are competitively priced - a great value. The financial aid process is simple and efficient, and I have found my financial aid advisor very knowledgeable and helpful. The textbooks for my first two courses were custom editions, available only through the university book store. However, subsequent courses are taught using standard college textbooks widely available for purchase. I have shopped around to compare prices, and have found that the university book store has competitive prices. The only place I have found my textbooks cheaper is on amazon.com, and their prices are only slightly less. Ashford uses the BlackBoard platform to deliver online classes. Using BlackBoard, students are required to log in to their class two times per week and to complete assignments in the form of at least one, but usually two, discussion posts and replying to at least two fellow students per discussion every week. In addition to weekly discussions, a final reflective paper which makes up 25% of the course grade is required. Many instructors take part in weekly discussions and make an effort to interact with each student. However, I have had one class in which the instructor seemed apathetic about interacting with the students. Ashford has procedures in place for problems such as these for students to report problems with instructors or classes. Also, students are given an end-of-course survey after each class in which they can rate the instructor and the quality of the course. Overall, I feel that Ashford University is a great value for those seeking an online degree. I am very happy with my classes, so far. I researched other organizational management programs, both online and on-campus, and the program content seems to be at least standard, if not superior, to others. I have learned so much already, and am confident that once I complete my degree I will be as knowledgeable and prepared in my career field as graduates from other organizational management programs are. Therefore, I highly recommend Ashford University's online degree program.
Enjoying every minute
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: dmhuntpcc
(Degree In Progress) on August 16, 2007
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The initial class at Ashford was amost life changing! I looked at several online programs and nothing provided the perparation for me as did Ashford. I enjoy the assignments and instructors. Some instructors are more engaged than others, but, such is life. The cost is acceptable for me with no hidden agendas that I have found. The assignments are very challenging but not overwhelming. The learning style works great for me. I would recomend this program along with others, as it is a good value.
Ashford was awesome for me
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: Anonymous
(Graduate) on August 15, 2007
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I'm sure everyone's experience is different, but I just graduated with my master's in education, and had a great experience. It was pretty cool to attend graduation, and meet the study group I got to know virtually, and meet face to face. I feel badly for the guy who had a bad experience, but mine was awesome. My teachers were always available, they transferred 90 of my community college credits, and were affordable. AS a single mom, cost was important. Oh yeah, and my school district gave me a raise after I recieved my masters! Pretty cool!
Ashford is a JOKE
Bachelors of Science
Reviewer: mica
(Degree In Progress) on July 20, 2007
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Ashford is a joke. I should have known better when the enrollment advisor screwed EVERYTHING up from day one. He listed me with the wrong major. He emailed me information for my first class, which turned out to NOT be the class that he enrolled me for. In turn, I purchased the books for thr wrong class. 3 weeks later, I finally got the textbooks (that part, as far as I know, was the bookstore's fault not the school), only to then find out that I had the wrong books. They sent me the correct books overnighted and THEY paid for it, which was wonderful. They gave me a student advisor who proved to be the ONLY person that knew what the heck she was doing, so she is the reason I gave them another chance. Their textbooks are specific editions to their school and after 2 classes, I realized that neither textbook was organized well, did nothing in terms of explaining ANYTHING, and was written like someone with ADHD and dyslexia. The second instructor I had made no attempts at interacting with most of the students, and my emails were left completely ignored. When I had finally had enough and asked to be withdrawn, the financial aid person says to me, in her exact words mind you, "Well since you are withdrawing so soon you know you'll have to pay us some money for it right?" EXCUSE ME?! I was never told this (and who would have told me besides the enrollment advisor who admittedly did not know what he was doing)? I am not paying them a penny, and I flat out told them that after EVERYTHING with them, how dare they expect a penny more from me. I mentioned this to my student advisor and she said that she would look into it and take care of that for me. These people are incredibly clueless and not at all organized and I would absolutely advise people AGAINST Ashford University online.
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