Ashworth College Diploma: From a Single Course to Online Education
Ashworth College is a private, for-profit college located in Norcross, Georgia in the United States. It is a distance education institution that offers career diplomas, certificates, associate degrees and bachelor’s degrees. Its focus is on flexible study, particularly for adults balancing education with work and family commitments. The college is owned by the Penn Foster Group, which also owns a number of other online education providers.
The school was founded in 1987, when a family owned school offered one single distance learning course in real estate appraisal. This enterprise was called the Professional Career Development Institute (PCDI). Over time, as its course selection expanded, the organization incorporated educational paths outside of vocational training. James Madison High School merged its operations in 1996, followed by the launch of associate’s degree programs in 2000 and bachelor’s degrees in 2007. In 2019, Penn Foster acquired Ashworth College.
Ashworth College Diploma can be offered in areas like business, health care, education, technology, legal studies and skilled trades. Programs include business administration, criminal justice, early childhood education, medical billing and coding and heating and air conditioning. It offers a range of shorter career courses and undergraduate qualifications, providing various pathways for students seeking occupational training or a college education.
Ashworth College Accreditation
Teaching is done through an online learning system. Lessons are asynchronous so students don’t usually need to attend classes or log in at certain times. Learning materials vary according to the course, and can be digital textbooks, online lessons, and printed resources. Students can submit assignments through a dedicated portal, and reach out to instructors or academic advisors for help. Admission is possible at any time of the year. Time limits for completion of the program still apply. Tuition can be paid either all at once or monthly.
Ashworth College is institutionally accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, an accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. But just because the school is accredited doesn’t mean the credits will automatically be accepted by another school. Students transfer to the college that makes the transfer decisions . Professional licensing requirements differ by occupation and jurisdiction .
The college has also faced regulatory scrutiny. It settled with the Federal Trade Commission in 2015 over allegations regarding its career preparation and credit transfer claims. The settlement imposed restrictions on false claims about jobs, professional licensing and credit transfer. This episode continues to be an important part of the institution’s public record.