American Military University - International Relations

Recent Graduate

By: Anonymous (Graduate) on May 8, 2009

Materials:		Teachers:
Institution:		Support:
Value:		Technology:

Review:

I recently completed my degree requirements for a BA in International Relations, and thought I'd write a little about my experiences at AMU and the program itself.  

In terms of support, I have no complaints.  During my three years at AMU, I never had any difficulty communicating with my student adviser or program director. Additionally, I was able to utilize my TA, MGIB, and Financial Aid without any problems.  Naturally there's a process I had to go through to get my funding 'online'. However, I was able to accomplish everything I needed through email and phone -  calls and questions were returned promptly, and the entire process was painless.

Tuition. At 250 per credit hour, it's cheaper than most 'for-profit' educational institutions, but keep in mind that 750 a class adds up - even with the help of TA & MGIB.  If you follow APUS President W. Boston's blog, you'll know that the current tuition rates are likely to remain unchanged.  

Professors at AMU:  Some are good, some are great, some I didn't like at all.  Over the course of three years I found most professors to be engaging and demanding. Creativity, discussion and feedback are major components you'll come across in your academic plan. Overall, most online classes are writing intensive, and typical coarse loads included major research projects (15+ papers), 7-8 pg papers & LOTS of reading.  Lower level classes typically demand multiple 4-5 pg papers, multiple question & essay exams.

Now, did a few instructors run on 'autopilot'? Sure, I've come across two or three. Although, I should note that the university system is constantly providing opportunity for students to submit online assessment surveys & feedback - in fact one is available for each course you complete.  If someone is dissatisfied with a course, they should annotate that dissatisfaction on a survey, or write the program director/school dean. Too easy.

Overall, I found my time at AMU to be rewarding and challenging. Although still relatively unknown in the civilian sector, APUS has become highly regarded within the military and federal government - A fact which underlines the value of AMU's School of Security and Global Studies.