American Public University System
Salary Score
Bachelor's
92
Master's
65
Doctoral
N/A
American Public University System (APUS) is a public, for-profit institution in Charles Town, WV. It offers over 200 online undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificate programs. Over 38,500 undergraduate students are enrolled in APUS globally, with 100% of students enrolled online. Undergraduate distance learners enroll in APUS online programs — such as business, healthcare administration, English, criminal justice, nursing, human resources, psychology, and computer science — for career preparation, advancement, or preparation for graduate programs. Online classes start monthly and last between eight and sixteen weeks, allowing scheduling flexibility.
Fast Facts
Average Financial Aid: $5,493
Accreditation: American Public University System is acredited by 5 agencies
American Public University System Rankings by Salary Score
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#1
2023 Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in History
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#1
2023 Best Online Master's Degrees in History
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#1
2023 Best Online Law Enforcement Degrees
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#2
2023 Best Online English Degrees
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#2
2023 Best Online Associate Degrees
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#3
2023 Best Online Hospitality Management Degrees
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#3
2023 Best Online Sociology Degrees
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#4
2023 Best Online Bachelor's in Emergency Management Degrees
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#5
2023 Best Online Psychology Bachelor's Degrees
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#5
2023 Best Online Bachelor's in Homeland Security Degrees
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#6
2023 Best Online Information Technology Degrees
Salary Score for Online Degrees at American Public University System
Certificate Degrees
Business Administration, Management and Operations | $9,500 | $46,077 | 92 |
Associate's Degrees
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities | $8,465 | $45,956 | 100 |
Business/Commerce, General | $21,625 | $45,782 | 99 |
Business Administration, Management and Operations | $21,098 | $40,681 | 96 |
Accounting and Related Services | $20,006 | $38,790 | 91 |
Criminal Justice and Corrections | $23,369 | $35,309 | 71 |
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other | $5,996 | $34,395 | 69 |
Legal Support Services | $24,166 | $33,198 | 63 |
Bachelor's Degrees
History | $30,891 | $48,988 | 100 |
Health and Physical Education/Fitness | $27,350 | $47,616 | 100 |
International/Global Studies | $22,804 | $56,758 | 100 |
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities | Not Reported | $64,720 | 100 |
International Relations and National Security Studies | $22,336 | $53,980 | 99 |
Criminal Justice and Corrections | $25,150 | $49,354 | 99 |
Psychology, General | $28,443 | $37,948 | 98 |
Natural Resources Conservation and Research | $25,870 | $45,245 | 97 |
Political Science and Government | $19,304 | $46,663 | 96 |
Sociology | $23,735 | $39,082 | 94 |
Business Administration, Management and Operations | $24,112 | $54,183 | 92 |
English Language and Literature, General | $28,609 | $34,898 | 89 |
Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management | $26,966 | $63,468 | 84 |
Public Health | $31,535 | $39,321 | 82 |
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing | $20,269 | $74,655 | 81 |
Non-Professional General Legal Studies (Undergraduate) | $25,523 | $41,598 | 79 |
Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations | $29,135 | $47,334 | 71 |
Hospitality Administration/Management | $29,006 | $40,039 | 69 |
Homeland Security | $25,172 | $51,985 | 62 |
Fire Protection | $20,090 | $61,979 | 61 |
Marketing | $31,724 | $42,993 | 59 |
Computer and Information Sciences, General | $28,556 | $56,355 | 50 |
Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services | $32,918 | $27,657 | 34 |
Accounting and Related Services | $33,269 | $42,754 | 25 |
General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations | $41,970 | $37,227 | 15 |
Master's Degrees
Health and Physical Education/Fitness | $33,263 | $54,121 | 98 |
International Relations and National Security Studies | $32,196 | $72,770 | 95 |
History | $38,342 | $52,904 | 94 |
Public Health | $48,728 | $72,029 | 91 |
Criminal Justice and Corrections | $35,848 | $61,938 | 77 |
Non-Professional General Legal Studies (Undergraduate) | $41,487 | $56,358 | 76 |
Public Administration | $39,846 | $60,442 | 72 |
International/Global Studies | $29,082 | $75,015 | 69 |
Natural Resources Conservation and Research | $31,535 | $53,209 | 64 |
Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management | $36,768 | $85,935 | 61 |
Homeland Security | $34,177 | $66,045 | 53 |
Student Counseling and Personnel Services | $53,036 | $44,277 | 51 |
Accounting and Related Services | $32,927 | $59,339 | 46 |
Political Science and Government | $39,304 | $49,162 | 45 |
Business Administration, Management and Operations | $34,341 | $67,224 | 44 |
Psychology, General | $38,976 | $41,375 | 37 |
Education, General | $41,012 | $45,959 | 30 |
FAQs About American Public University System
Is American Public University Legitimate?
Yes, APUS and its online degrees are legitimate. Employers generally respect and accept online degrees as long as accredited institutions confer them. Accreditation is important because it signifies that a school consistently meets high academic standards in delivering quality education.
All OnlineU schools are institutionally accredited.
APUS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Some of APU's programs also receive additional programmatic accreditation, such as nursing and public health.
What Is American Public University Known For?
APUS is known for offering programs that are accessible to working adults, military members on active duty, and veterans.
Since 1991, APUS has become a leader and innovator in providing quality online education, initially targeting active-duty military members. Since then, it's been one of the largest online education providers, with over 200 online programs accessible to students worldwide regardless of military status. APUS embraced the new millennium starting in 1999 when it began offering all its undergraduate programs online, followed by all graduate programs the following year.
Which Degrees at APU Provide the Highest Earnings for Graduates?
Online computer information technology administration and management bachelor's degrees may result in the highest earnings, with a $69,785 annual median salary. Additionally, online fire protection, international global studies, computer and information science, and homeland security bachelor's degrees may result in annual median salaries of $56,900 and higher.
What Is the Difference Between APU and AMU?
The difference between APU and AMU is the student population served. AMU (American Military University) was founded in 1991 as a military-friendly institution with the goal of providing higher education that's more accessible to mobile military personnel. In 2002, AMU reorganized and became part of APU (American Public University) to provide the same flexible education to a broader range of students.
How Difficult Is It To Get Into APU?
It is not difficult to get into APU due to its open admissions policy. In other words, APU accepts 100% of its applicants. While APU doesn't require submitting entrance exam scores, like the SAT and ACT, it is encouraged.
What Are the Admission Requirements for APU?
APU admission requirements are minimal compared to many other colleges and universities. Applying requires completing a free online application, submitting proof of high school completion or equivalent, and providing a color copy of a valid state-issued ID or driver's license. Students transferring credits must complete a free online transfer credit application and submit college or military transcripts, as applicable.
Some individual degree programs have additional requirements, such as accounting, nursing, and electrical engineering. An admissions advisor can help determine other documentation that may be required.
Mike
Reviewed: 1/28/2023
Degree: Environmental Engineering
This school for being founded by a former military is a shame. I couldn’t even get registered for classes because no one at the school even communicates with you. Once you fill the info online an a recruiter contacts you answers 2 or 3 questions that’s it. You get a couple o emails congratulating you but contact to see if you have questions or concerns about the registration process or no follow up regarding paperwork you sent. You consistently have to chase some one down. All to no avail because... Read More
Robert M
Reviewed: 1/13/2023
Degree: Legal Studies
apu's financial disbursement policies in regards Federal loans and grants for student are some of the worst policies I have ever seen . nobody outside of the school I've talked to has ever heard of the way they handle their disbursements. I say this as a PU has shown a complete double standard for a student who receives fund and one who doesn't receive federal funds And I can prove this in the following scenario which I am currently and have been for the last year experiencing. I am a student who... Read More
Mimi Griffith
Reviewed: 1/7/2023
Degree: Emergency Management
APUS university, the students "learn to write essays or research papers", that is, you do not learn other skills other than that. I did my high bachelor's degree at this university and for me, it was a waste of time and money because they do not prepare you with the skills that are needed for the workplace. In addition, they do not offer you an internship. Also, in this university, the professor is always right and the student is always wrong. Let me explain. Some professors do not answer emails... Read More
Tristen Cook
Reviewed: 10/27/2022
Degree: Criminal Justice
AMU is a great school that offers 100% online degree programs. I transferred to AMU from the University of South Carolina because it was simple and was easier to use my chapter 33 GI Bill benefit without jumping through hoops like at a state school. I was able to learn more on the go with AMU because they provide you with electronic books at no charge. This degree was simple for a working law enforcement professional like myself. I will be getting my MPA from AMU as well.
Carl
Reviewed: 8/7/2022
Degree: Supply Chain Management
This school is not for everyone. You will have to research and write a lot of papers on various subjects while attending. The papers are going to be lengthy. You as a student have to be self motivated to accomplish your tasks in order to reach your goal. No one is going to hold your hand while you are in attendance of this learning institution. The classes are condensed down to 8 week classes, and not the standard 12 or 16 weeks that many brick and mortar schools offer. You have to absorb a lot of... Read More
Nathanael Young
Reviewed: 6/12/2022
Degree: Management
I absolutely love this University and highly recommend them to any and everyone. I recently finished up my BA in Management from them and I can honestly say it has had a profound impact on my earning ability. Especially now that I'm transitioning out of the military in to a 80k position because of it. I've been to a number of colleges (4) and I can say beyond a doubt this is the best one. There is no gimmicks or money grabs, just the meat and potatoes of going to school. No drama, all you do is go... Read More
AJ
Reviewed: 5/12/2022
Degree: Management
APUS is a great institution for individuals who either prefer online learning or are unable to attend in-person classes. The undergrad programs are regionally accredited and the college course credits should be accepted at any likewise accredited university, whether transferring schools or applying for grad school. This is particularly a good option for individuals interested in pursuing post-graduate education. As with many online learning environments, the level and quality of education you receive... Read More
saxusmc
Reviewed: 5/9/2022
Degree: Business
I attended a well-respected college in Texas prior to joining the military. After about two years in the military, I decided to enroll in AMU and finish my Bachelor's degree. The online instruction was literally the same as the hybrid courses I did at a state-funded school, if not better. This school is accredited (regionally) and quite honestly, that's the most important aspect. I would say they are probably the leaders in catering to distance education for the military, first responders, government... Read More
Jenny Ellen
Reviewed: 3/5/2022
Degree: Business
Low cost college with accreditation! If you are an adult, returning student this school is a no brainer choice. I looked for years and had trouble finding a program I could afford. They helped me sign up for federal Pell grants and student loans as needed. I am so grateful I will be graduating next year with my Bachelors in Business. You can't even get your job application looked at these days without a degree. Doors are opening thanks to this school! A few tips. For online students make sure you... Read More
SLC
Reviewed: 12/2/2021
Degree: Homeland Security
+Overall very satisfied with instructors and flexibility - Very DISSATISFIED with Diploma which indicates a single degree, and DOES NOT indicate TWO degrees or even a DUAL degree. - Tried to remedy the situation through phone calls and emails to APUS...after 6 months, still no response. - I continue to receive high volume of sales spam from APUS and affiliated businesses. RECOMMENDATION: Find an honest program. I cannot recommend a school that markets DUAL degrees, charges for two degrees, and only... Read More