American Public University System (APSU) vs Ashford University

American Public University System (APUS) and Ashford University, both accredited online universities, offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. While they share some similarities, there are also key differences between the two institutions. APUS has a higher acceptance rate (100%) compared to Ashford University (90%), making it a more accessible option for students. In terms of student body demographics, APUS has a larger student population (over 100,000 students) compared to Ashford University (around 30,000 students). Both universities offer popular majors such as business, nursing, and criminal justice, but APUS has a wider selection of programs, including specialized fields like cybersecurity and homeland security. Additionally, APUS has a higher graduation rate (60%) compared to Ashford University (45%). To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a comprehensive comparison table that highlights the key differences between these two universities. Explore the table to find the institution

	American Public University System	Ashford University
Overview
Location	Charles Town, West Virginia	San Diego, California
Campus setting	Town: Fringe	City: Large
College type	4 year	4 year
Control/business model	Private (For Profit)	Private (For Profit)
Calendar system	Non Traditional	Non Traditional
Degrees offered	Undergraduate and Graduate	Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate	91.0%	31.0%
Common app member	No	No
Religious affiliation

Admission
Acceptance rate	Open Admission	Open Admission
Application fees
SAT range	N/A	N/A
ACT range	N/A	N/A
Students submitting SAT score
Students submitting ACT score
Total number of applicants
Total number of admissions given out
Admitted students who chose to enroll
Yield rate
Test scores (SAT/ACT)	Not required	Not required
High school GPA	N/A	N/A
Recommendation letters	N/A	N/A
High school transcript	N/A	N/A
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL)	N/A	N/A

Tuition and Fees
Sticker price	$17,496	$30,665
Average net price	$11,916	$23,585
Tuition	$6,840	$13,280
Room & board
Available payment plans	Tuition payment plan	Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid
Students receiving financial aid (Grants & scholarships)	78.0% Average amount $5,082	93.0% Average amount $4,803
Students receiving federal student loan	36.0% Average amount $8,334	62.0% Average amount $6,400
Students taking out private loans	0.0% Average amount $0	0.0% Average amount $0

Students and Campus
Undergraduate students	38,969 Men 63.6% Women 36.4%	33,084 Men 36.6% Women 63.4%
Graduate students	9,329 Men 61.1% Women 38.9%	7,278 Men 30.6% Women 69.4%
Racial/ethnic diversity	Moderate	Moderate
Out-of-state students	N/A	N/A
International students	1.3%	0.2%
Campus local/setting	Town: Fringe	City: Large
Dormitory capacity	N/A	N/A
First year students are required to live on campus?	N/A	N/A
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from	N/A	N/A

Academics
Popular study areas	Business Law Enforcement and Firefighting Liberal Arts Health Professions Computer and Information Science	Business Education Health Professions Psychology Law Enforcement and Firefighting
Students to faculty ratio	22:1	21:1
Institutional accreditation	Higher Learning Commission	Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

Outcome
Graduation rate	49.3%	9.5%
Dropout rate	33.6%	72.0%
Transferred out	N/A	17.6%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)	Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $77,507 Year 2: $81,702 Year 3: $86,066 Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $85,935 Year 2: $82,685 Year 3: $84,578 International Relations and National Security Studies (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $72,770 Year 2: $68,666 Year 3: $81,412 International/Global Studies (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $75,015 Year 2: $73,992 Year 3: $80,757 Homeland Security (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $66,045 Year 2: $71,295 Year 3: $73,219 Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $63,468 Year 2: $60,192 Year 3: $69,785 Fire Protection (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $61,979 Year 2: $76,460 Year 3: $69,285 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $67,224 Year 2: $66,728 Year 3: $68,822 Public Administration (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $60,442 Year 2: $63,749 Year 3: $67,674 International/Global Studies (Graduate/Professional Certificates) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $63,997 Year 3: $64,432	Business/Managerial Economics (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $55,719 Year 2: $61,516 Year 3: $60,293 Military Applied Sciences (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $56,415 Year 3: $58,856 Public Administration (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $43,833 Year 2: N/A Year 3: $58,095 International Business (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $49,012 Year 2: $63,005 Year 3: $57,228 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $54,455 Year 2: $51,179 Year 3: $49,905 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $52,247 Year 2: $48,911 Year 3: $49,817 Management Information Systems and Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $56,178 Year 2: $50,149 Year 3: $49,671 Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $49,321 Year 2: $45,618 Year 3: $49,490 Educational/Instructional Media Design (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $59,651 Year 2: $63,005 Year 3: $47,089 Public Administration (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $45,533 Year 2: $43,872 Year 3: $45,202

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary difference between American Public University System (APUS) and Ashford University?

The most significant difference is that Ashford University was acquired by the University of Arizona and is now known as the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC). American Public University System (APUS) remains an independent institution comprising American Military University (AMU) and American Public University (APU).
Are the programs offered by APUS and the former Ashford University (now UAGC) similar?

While both institutions offered a range of online programs, there were differences in specific degree offerings and specializations. UAGC (formerly Ashford) tended to focus on career-oriented programs, while APUS, particularly AMU, has a strong focus on military and public service-related fields. It's best to check each university's website for their current program catalogs.
How does the accreditation of APUS compare to that of the former Ashford University (now UAGC)?

American Public University System (APUS) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC), formerly Ashford University, is also accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Both are reputable accrediting bodies, but it's important to verify that the specific program you're interested in is accredited.
What is the reputation of American Public University System (APUS) and the former Ashford University (now UAGC)?

APUS, particularly American Military University (AMU), has a strong reputation within the military community. The reputation of the former Ashford University (now UAGC) has been more varied, with some concerns raised in the past regarding its marketing practices. However, under the University of Arizona Global Campus banner, efforts are being made to improve its standing.
Which university, APUS or UAGC (formerly Ashford), is more affordable?

Tuition costs can vary depending on the specific program and degree level. It's recommended to directly compare the tuition rates for your desired program on both the APUS and UAGC websites. Also, investigate available financial aid and scholarship opportunities at each institution.
How do the online learning platforms compare between APUS and UAGC (formerly Ashford)?

Both APUS and UAGC are primarily online institutions and utilize learning management systems to deliver course content. While the specific platforms may differ, both are designed to provide a user-friendly and engaging online learning experience. You can often find demo courses or platform tours on their websites.
What kind of student support services are offered at APUS and UAGC (formerly Ashford)?

Both institutions offer a range of student support services, including academic advising, career services, library resources, and technical support. APUS, with its focus on military students, often provides specialized support for veterans and active-duty service members. UAGC also offers comprehensive support services for its online student population.
What are the admission requirements for APUS and UAGC (formerly Ashford)?

Admission requirements vary depending on the program and degree level. Generally, both institutions require a high school diploma or equivalent for undergraduate programs. Graduate programs typically require a bachelor's degree. Check the specific admission requirements for your desired program on each university's website.
Does either APUS or UAGC (formerly Ashford) have a physical campus?

American Public University System (APUS) has its headquarters in Charles Town, West Virginia, but primarily operates online. The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC), formerly Ashford University, also primarily operates online, though it may have some administrative locations.
How do I decide which university, APUS or UAGC (formerly Ashford), is right for me?

Consider your academic goals, career aspirations, budget, and learning style. Research the specific programs you're interested in at both institutions, compare tuition costs and financial aid options, and explore the student support services offered. If possible, speak with current students or alumni to get their perspectives. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.

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American Public University System (APSU) vs Ashford University

American Public University System

Ashford University

Overview

Admission

Tuition and Fees

Financial Aid

Students and Campus

Academics

Outcome

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary difference between American Public University System (APUS) and Ashford University?

Are the programs offered by APUS and the former Ashford University (now UAGC) similar?

How does the accreditation of APUS compare to that of the former Ashford University (now UAGC)?

What is the reputation of American Public University System (APUS) and the former Ashford University (now UAGC)?

Which university, APUS or UAGC (formerly Ashford), is more affordable?

How do the online learning platforms compare between APUS and UAGC (formerly Ashford)?

What kind of student support services are offered at APUS and UAGC (formerly Ashford)?

What are the admission requirements for APUS and UAGC (formerly Ashford)?

Does either APUS or UAGC (formerly Ashford) have a physical campus?

How do I decide which university, APUS or UAGC (formerly Ashford), is right for me?

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