On August 5, 2026, American Public University System combined with Rasmussen University and Hondros College of Nursing to form a single higher education institution. American Public University System (System) now includes American Public University, American Military University, Rasmussen University, and Hondros College of Nursing. The System is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Public Education, Inc. (APEI). We are continuing to update our website to reflect our new structure.

 

Outstanding Faculty Scholarship and Research Award

The Outstanding Faculty Scholarship and Research Award recognizes a faculty member whose scholarly contributions demonstrate a sustained commitment to research, advance knowledge within their field and strengthen their teaching at American Public University (APU).

This award honors faculty members who articulate a clear research philosophy and agenda, contribute meaningfully to the knowledge base within their discipline and demonstrate how their research informs and supports the student learning experience at APU.

The Outstanding Faculty Scholarship and Research Award may be presented annually. However, if no application sufficiently meets the established criteria, the award may not be presented.

Applicants must:

  • Be a current part-time or full-time faculty member at APU.
  • Be in good standing with the University.
  • Provide scholarly contributions within their field.
  • Articulate a clear research philosophy and agenda.
  • Demonstrate a commitment to research and contributing to the knowledge base within their field.
  • Demonstrate how their research supports their teaching at APU.

Individuals may apply directly or another person may submit an application on their behalf.

A complete application must include:

  • A completed application form.
  • A current curriculum vitae (CV) that includes scholarly publications and contributions.
  • A copy of the scholarly work being submitted for consideration, such as a book chapter, research paper, conference paper, conference program or presentation, including applicable review criteria.
  • A statement of support from the applicant’s Department Chair, Associate Dean or Dean.
  • Research responses addressing:
    • The applicant's research philosophy and agenda.
    • How the applicant's current research activities are significant to their field.
    • How the applicant's research supports their teaching at APU.

Applicants may submit:

  • A written response of no more than 250 words for each area.
  • A video response of no more than two minutes for each area.
  • One combined written response of no more than 750 words.
  • One combined video response of no more than six minutes.

All materials must be submitted through the application form by the published deadline. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

Applications are reviewed by the Academic Awards Committee using a standardized evaluation rubric:

The committee evaluates each application based on:

  • The quality and significance of the applicant's scholarly contributions.
  • The clarity and strength of the applicant's research philosophy and agenda.
  • The applicant’s commitment to research and contributing to the knowledge base within their field.
  • The significance of the applicant’s current research activities.
  • The connection between the applicant’s research and teaching at APU.
  • The overall quality and impact of the scholarly work submitted.

Following Academic Awards Committee review, one faculty member is recommended to the University Provost for final approval.

  • Applications Open: September 1, 2026
  • Application Deadline: February 1, 2027
  • Committee Review: February–March 2027
  • Recipient Notified by: April 1, 2027
  • Recognition: Commencement Weekend 2027

Recipient receives:

  • Recognition during Commencement weekend.
  • A crystal trophy.
  • Travel and hotel accommodations in accordance with University award guidelines.
  • Recognition in University communications.

Attendance at Commencement is encouraged but not required.

Questions regarding eligibility or the application process may be directed to the University Awards Committee at universityawards@apus.edu.