Private for-profit online university system serving military, veterans, and working professionals since 1991.
APUS operates as an online-only institution through two brands: American Military University (AMU, founded 1991) and American Public University (APU, established 2002). The system employs approximately 410 full-time and 1,800 part-time faculty members across six academic schools. APUS offers 200+ degree and certificate programs including associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Beginning May 2017, the university began awarding doctoral degrees in Doctor of Global Security (DGS) and Doctor of Strategic Intelligence (DSI). The institution is open enrollment and emphasizes flexible, affordable online education for working adults and military personnel.
APUS was founded specifically to serve military servicemembers and has maintained this focus. Approximately 56% of students reported active military service at initial enrollment. The system serves about 55,000 military service members receiving tuition assistance and 16,702 using GI Bill benefits. AMU participated in the Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges program (disbanded 2019) with eligible degrees in Homeland Security, Intelligence Studies, Criminal Justice, Management, and Business Administration. AMU is also a Navy College Program Distance Learning Partner.
According to the College Scorecard, APUS has an 8-year graduation rate of 22% with post-completion salaries ranging from $15,650 (AA in Human Development) to $76,460 (Bachelor's in Fire Protection). The 6-year graduation rate is 29% per NCES data. APUS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and holds specialized accreditations including ACBSP for business programs, CCNE for nursing (RN to BSN), and CEPH for the Master of Public Health program. The institution ranks in the top 22% for return on educational investment compared to 4,396 colleges nationwide (Georgetown University, 2025).
Founded in 1991 by retired Marine Major James P. Etter, APUS began operations in January 1993 with 18 graduate students. The institution achieved national accreditation (DETC) in 1995, introduced undergraduate programs in 1996, and launched online courses in 1998. In 2002, AMU expanded to become APUS and established APU for civilians. Regional accreditation from HLC was granted in 2006. Current president Nuno Fernandes assumed leadership September 1, 2022. APUS is wholly owned by American Public Education, Inc., a publicly traded corporation (NASDAQ: APEI).