History
In 1991, retired Marine Corps officer James P. Etter founded American Military University (AMU).
In 2002, AMU was reorganized into the American Public University System (APUS), and American Public University (APU) was founded to provide the same quality, affordable, and flexible education to a broader audience of motivated working adults.
Education
The University provides educational access to a diverse community of traditional and non-traditional learners in an environment that supports a lifetime of learning and freedom of inquiry and expression.
The University System fosters an environment of knowledge and understanding that promotes a life of learning.The University is committed to high standards of distinction, excellence and continuous improvement in all aspects of its evolving operations.Research
APUS faculty and students participate in research designed to marry intellectual ambition with the practical application of knowledge attained through scientific inquiry in order to address real world problems. This page lists a summary or faculty research abstracts as well as webinars and conferences of interest to the APUS academic community.
Career
Our Career Exploration Team is here to guide you toward finding your career fit. Get started using Focus 2, our online career assessment tool. Connect with a career coach to receive personalized career assistance.
Student services
Career Services and the university’s academic departments created program-specific career guides to help students explore relevant career options and learn important information about their field.
Library services
The mission of the Richard G. Trefry Library is to provide quality resources to support learning across all disciplines. Our goal is to assist students in the development of information literacy skills relevant to the digital era in order to promote research, discovery, and critical thinking.
Campus life
American Public University System is working on plans to expand its campus in Charles Town and Ranson, with the intention of constructing two new buildings and a parking garage in the near future. The university is also considering building two more facilities in the longer term. American Public University System CEO Wallace Boston will oversee a major expansion of American Public University’s campus. APUS officials unveiled their plan at the Charles Town Council’s meeting Monday night, where they requested that a small road and a notional, unconstructed alley be vacated.
Student clubs
Discover the many benefits of getting involved in a student organization. Participation can enrich your college experience while helping you expand your community and explore shared interests. These clubs, professional organizations, and honor societies also provide opportunities to further develop your collaboration and leadership skills within a structured organization. Start exploring now! We have Clubs, Professional Organizations and Honor Societies.
Accreditation
American Public University is part of the American Public University System (APUS), which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. HLC accredits degree-granting institutions located in a 19-state region, and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Universities such as The Ohio State, University of Chicago and the U.S. Air Force Academy are also accredited by HLC.