American Public University (APU) is an accredited online institution of higher education that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The university was established in 1991 and is headquartered in Charles Town, West Virginia. It has a diverse student body, with students from all 50 U.S. states and over 100 countries.
In recent years, online courses have become increasingly popular due to the many advantages they offer. Online courses provide students with more flexibility and convenience than traditional in-person courses, allowing them to study at their own pace and on their own schedule. They also provide access to high-quality education to students who may not have been able to attend traditional on-campus classes due to distance, time constraints, or other factors.
In this blog, we will explore the benefits of online learning and why APU is an excellent choice for students who are looking for a flexible, affordable, and high-quality education. We will also discuss the various programs and resources available to APU students, as well as the university’s commitment to student success.
History and Overview of American Public University
American Public University (APU) was founded in 1991 by retired Marine Corps officer James P. Etter. Originally known as American Military University (AMU), the university was established to provide affordable and accessible education to military personnel and veterans. In 2002, the university expanded its mission to include non-military students, and the name was changed to American Public University.
The mission of APU is to provide high-quality, affordable education to students from diverse backgrounds. The university is committed to preparing students for success in their chosen careers by providing a rigorous and engaging academic experience. APU values innovation, integrity, and excellence in all aspects of its operations.
As of 2021, APU has over 90,000 students enrolled in more than 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The university offers programs in a wide range of fields, including business, criminal justice, education, healthcare, humanities, science, technology, and social sciences. APU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities.
Advantages of Online Learning at APU
One of the most significant advantages of online learning at APU is the flexibility it offers. Online courses allow students to complete coursework at their own pace and on their own schedule, which is particularly beneficial for students who have work or family obligations. Online courses typically have weekly assignments and due dates, but students can log in and complete coursework at any time during the week.
Another advantage of online learning at APU is affordability. Online courses are often more affordable than traditional on-campus courses, as students do not have to pay for room and board, commuting, or other expenses associated with attending a physical campus. Additionally, APU offers a variety of financial aid options to help students pay for their education, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
Online learning at APU also provides the ability to access course materials and complete assignments from anywhere. As long as students have access to the internet, they can participate in online courses from any location, which is particularly beneficial for students who live far away from campus or who have mobility issues. This flexibility also allows students to travel or relocate while still completing their coursework.
Overall, the flexibility, affordability, and accessibility of online learning at APU make it an excellent choice for students who want to earn a degree while balancing work, family, or other responsibilities.
Types of Online Courses Offered at APU
APU offers a variety of online courses in different formats, including asynchronous and synchronous courses. Asynchronous courses allow students to complete coursework on their own schedule, while synchronous courses require students to participate in real-time lectures or discussions at set times.
APU offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including business, criminal justice, education, healthcare, humanities, science, technology, and social sciences. Some of the most popular degree programs at APU include Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Homeland Security, Education, and Nursing.
Specific courses that students can take at APU vary depending on their chosen degree program. For example, students in the Criminal Justice program can take courses such as Criminal Investigations, Cybercrime, and White Collar Crime. Students in the Business Administration program can take courses such as Accounting Principles, Management Information Systems, and Marketing Management.
In addition to traditional courses, APU also offers “experiential learning” courses that provide hands-on experience in various fields. For example, the university offers a Cybersecurity Lab course that allows students to practice identifying and responding to cyber threats in a simulated environment. APU also offers virtual internships in various fields to provide students with practical experience in their chosen career paths.
Overall, APU offers a wide range of online courses and degree programs to meet the needs of students from diverse backgrounds and career goals.
A Day in the Life of an APU Online Student
A typical day for an APU online student would depend on their individual schedule and workload, but here is an example of what their day might look like:
Morning: The student starts their day by checking their email and logging into the online course portal. They review their course syllabus and assignment schedule for the week, making note of any upcoming deadlines or live class sessions.
Mid-morning: The student begins working on their coursework, which may include watching pre-recorded lectures, participating in online discussions with classmates, or completing assignments such as essays or quizzes.
Afternoon: The student takes a break from coursework to attend a live class session, either via video conference or online chat. During the session, the student interacts with their professor and classmates, asking questions and participating in group discussions.
Evening: The student finishes up their coursework for the day and reviews their progress for the week. They may also reach out to their academic advisor or a tutor for additional support or guidance.
Throughout the day, APU online students can interact with professors and classmates through online discussion boards, video conferences, email, and chat. Professors are available to answer questions and provide feedback on assignments, and students can collaborate with their classmates on group projects and assignments.
In addition to the support provided by professors and classmates, APU offers a variety of resources to help online students succeed. These resources include academic advising, tutoring services, and technical support. Students can also access an online library with millions of books, journals, and other resources to support their coursework.
Overall, while the day-to-day experience of an APU online student may vary, they can expect to interact regularly with their professors and classmates, receive support from a variety of resources, and have the flexibility to complete their coursework on their own schedule.
Tips for Success in APU Online Courses
- Manage your time effectively: Online courses require a lot of self-discipline and time management skills. Create a schedule that works for you and stick to it. Set aside dedicated time each day or week for coursework, and avoid procrastination.
- Stay engaged in class discussions: Participating in online class discussions is a great way to stay engaged with the course material and connect with your classmates. Make sure to read and respond to discussion prompts and questions, and be respectful and constructive in your comments.
- Ask for help when needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your professors or academic advisor if you have questions or need additional support. APU offers a variety of resources to help students succeed, including tutoring services and technical support.
- Stay motivated and focused: Online courses can sometimes feel isolating, so it’s important to find ways to stay motivated and engaged throughout the semester. Set goals for yourself and celebrate your accomplishments along the way. Create a comfortable and distraction-free workspace for studying.
- Prioritize self-care: Don’t forget to take care of yourself physically and mentally. Take breaks when needed, practice self-care activities such as exercise and meditation, and make sure to get enough sleep and eat a healthy diet.
By following these tips, students can set themselves up for success in their online courses at APU.
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