CHARLES TOWN, W.Va., Mar 09, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) --
American
Public University (APU) (NASDAQ: APEI) today announced partnerships
with the BAE Systems Information Solutions subsidiary of BAE Systems PLC
(LSE: BA.LN), and Sun-Maid Growers of California that will provide
affordable online education programs to the companies' respective
employees, coupled with employer-paid tuition benefits. The announcement
marks the latest strategic alliances established by APU to extend
quality educational opportunities to employees of leading corporations
and members of professional organizations.
APU has partnered with the Intelligence & Security (I&S) sector of BAE
Systems Information Solutions, Inc., to support development and
retention efforts for I&S sector employees. The alliance with the
world's second-largest global defense contractor reflects the companies'
shared philosophies and missions, with a focus on the government sector,
according to Michelle Maldonado, director of corporate and strategic
relationships for American Public University System.
"The selection of APU was based on our history of educating adult
learners in the military and public sectors, along with our affordable
tuition, which allows for maximization of annual tuition benefits," said
Maldonado. "The flexibility of our online courses was also a major
consideration, and the breadth and depth of our programs of interest to
I&S employees."
While all of APU's current and future academic programs will be
available to I&S employees, it anticipates that many employees may be
interested in programs related to their job function - primarily in the
areas of information technology, intelligence studies, homeland
security, national security studies and business administration.
"We are truly excited by this partnership, as it will help us fulfill
our mission of expanding access to affordable, higher education with a
special focus on assisting the government sector and federal contractors
who provide products and services to the US government," Maldonado
added. "When our students and partners succeed, we also succeed in
enhancing US competitiveness in the global marketplace."
In related news, APU has partnered with Sun-Maid to offer pre-approved
undergraduate and graduate courses of study for Sun-Maid managers and
employees. The partnership is designed to help strengthen core business
skills which are essential to the company's continued success in the
21st century, according to Sun-Maid President Barry Kriebel.
"We approached American Public University because their offerings are
designed to be a flexible, affordable, and convenient educational option
for full-time employees," said Kriebel. "They also have a strong track
record of success in working with other organizations to assist
employees in meeting their professional development goals while
balancing work, family and other commitments."
Eligible Sun-Maid employees may participate in the new program and
receive financial assistance to pay for all or a portion of the tuition
costs from Sun-Maid's employee benefits program. Classes start the first
Monday of every month, and are taught in both an eight- and 16-week
format.
About American Public University System
American Public University System, winner of the Sloan Consortium's 2009
Ralph E. Gomory Award for Quality Online Education and two-time
recipient of Sloan's Effective Practices Award, offers 79 online degree
programs through American Public University and American Military
University. APUS's relevant curriculum, affordability and flexibility
help more than 83,000 working adults worldwide pursue degrees in
subjects ranging from homeland security to management and liberal arts.
For further information on APU, please visit www.apu.apus.edu.
SOURCE: American Public University System
American Public University System
Brian Muys, 703-334-3225
bmuys@apus.edu