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On [DATE], 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.

 
APU Doctoral Handbook
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Last Revision: April 24, 2026

Program Objectives

American Public University System structures its institutional learning objectives according to the Degree Qualifications Profile (DQP). As designed by the Lumina Foundation, the DQP includes several broad categories of knowledge and skills: Broad and Integrative Knowledge, Specialized Knowledge, Intellectual Skills, Applied and Collaborative Learning, and Civic and Global Learning. In addition, APUS has added the categories of Digital Information Literacy and Professional Skills to doctoral programs. Doctoral program objectives align with these areas to provide students with a range of skills needed for career advancement and lifelong learning. Specific program objectives speak to the unique knowledge, skills, and abilities within the program and align with the institutional learning objectives. Through the curricular design of the doctoral programs, students will be introduced to key stills, develop them through structured practice, and master those skills by the conclusion of the program.