Skip Navigation
Global Site Menu

On August 4, 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 (the 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.

 
APU Student Handbook
In this section

Last Revision: August 21, 2026

Changing a Major/Program - Non-FSA Students

A student's program change request can be denied under one or more of the following criteria:

  • A student has submitted an excessive number of requests to change majors.
  • A student has started and abandoned an APU program already (This includes changing program levels between undergraduate/graduate without completing a program, or movement between degree to certificate or between certificates.).
  • A student has already attempted so many courses that their requested program change will put them above the 150% limit of courses attempted vs earned towards their program.
  • A student has submitted a graduation application and has not received final clearance.
  • A student is currently on a program hold.
  • A student is unsure of their academic and future goals.
  • A student has a GPA below the minimum GPA for graduate students (3.0).
  • A student has completed over 75% of their academic program.
  • An Air Force student using TA funding requiring more than two degree changes.
  • A student who does not meet the preadmission requirements for the requested program.
  • A student who has a transfer credit evaluation in progress.
  • A student who has a balance due on their account.
  • A student who is requesting a program that requires a course that was failed twice.
  • A student who has received a suspension or expulsion notice from the Office of Student Rights & Responsibilities.  

Other Important Information Regarding Program Changes

Students must use the UNIVERSITY FORMS menu, within the ‘Academic Plan & Forms’ tab, from their ecampus to submit the “Degree Change” form. 

All students completing a program change may select a maximum of one (1) active program or certificate, except where a formal dual program is listed in the catalog. Students already enrolled in more than one program may continue to pursue their dual programs as long as no changes are made to their active programs. If a student changes an active program, they must select which program to actively pursue and will thereafter be limited to one (1) active program or certificate in alignment with this policy. 

Cancelling Program Changes

If a student changes their mind before the program change is processed, they should email Advising@apus.edu immediately to cancel the request.

Starting Over

Students cannot "start over’ in a new program at the same level unless their current program deadline has expired. If a student's program deadline has expired and they have not completed their program, they may start a new program with a new GPA. All previously completed APU courses for which a student earned a grade of B or higher, as well as any outside source credit, will be applied as institutional or transfer credit where applicable, and students will not be able to retake courses for which they have already received credit in their previous program. If a student received below a B in a required course for their new program, they will need to contact their Academic Advisor for options.

Concentrations

Concentrations cannot be removed from programs if they are required. Not all programs require concentrations.

Reposting TCE

If students change their program after they have had a transfer credit award posted, their newly evaluated transfer credit award will be posted within 21 days of their program change.

GI Bill® Considerations: 

  • If a student using GI Bill® benefits changes their program with a current course, they should avoid enrolling in courses under their new program until the course in which they are enrolled ends.  The VA will not pay for any course(s) when there is an overlap between programs.  
  • For more information, visit: http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill  

Students should contact their Academic Advisor at Advising@apus.edu for more information on program change requests.