American Military University
Charles Town, WV
"Educating those who serve"
The Verdict
American Military University isn't your typical university—it's a pioneer that revolutionized military education. Founded in 1991 by retired Marine Corps Major James P. Etter, AMU was one of the first fully online universities in America, built specifically to serve those who serve. Before most people understood what "asynchronous learning" meant, Etter was delivering graduate-level military studies to service members deployed worldwide.
Today, AMU is the #1 provider of higher education to the U.S. Armed Forces, with over 153,000 alumni across 80+ countries and 200+ degree programs tailored to military, defense, intelligence, and public service careers.
Campus & Cadet Life
About
American Military University, founded in 1991, provides flexible and affordable online higher education to the military and public service communities. It focuses on career-relevant education with an emphasis on military studies, security, and intelligence.
Tuition & Costs
2025-2026 RatesUndergraduate
$350/credit
Graduate
$455/credit
*100% online; Military TA rate: $250/credit; ebooks included
View official tuition pageAdmissions & Selectivity
Admissions Philosophy
open
Key Requirements
- High school diploma or GED (undergraduate programs)
- Bachelor's degree from accredited institution (graduate programs)
- Master's degree plus 5 years experience (doctoral programs)
- Official transcripts for graduate/doctoral admission
- No application fee for undergraduate or master's programs
Location
Campus & Facilities
Campus Size
N/A - Online Institution
Housing
N/A
Enrollment
88,992
Student:Teacher
19:1
Campus Life
Daily Schedule
As a 100% online institution, AMU offers maximum flexibility with no set daily schedule. Students complete coursework asynchronously, allowing active-duty military, veterans, and working professionals to study around deployments, shift work, and family obligations. Classes start monthly, and students can access course materials 24/7 from anywhere in the world.
Discipline Model
Self-directed learning with academic integrity standards. Students are expected to maintain professional conduct in online discussions and adhere to the APUS Academic Honor Code. Academic advisors and student success coaches provide support, but the model emphasizes personal responsibility and time management—skills military students typically excel at.
Academics & Outcomes
College Matriculation
N/A - Terminal degree granting institution
Where Graduates Go
N/A - Graduate and continuing education institution serving active-duty personnel and veterans
Hall of Fame
Eugenie de Silva
Earned bachelor's degree at age 14 and master's at 15, achieving multiple world records; 2015 Luce Leader Award recipient
Noah Rivers
2015 Distinguished Graduate; National Air and Space Intelligence Center and Wright-Patterson AFB Airman of the Year (2013)
Robert Mazza
2015 Distinguished Graduate; Defense Meritorious Service Medal recipient; supported Operation Iraqi Freedom medical battalion deployment
Athletics & Physical Training
Mandatory PT
As an online university, AMU does not have mandatory physical training requirements. However, many students are active-duty military personnel who maintain physical fitness per their service branch requirements. AMU offers health and fitness-related degree programs for those pursuing careers in exercise science and wellness.
Facilities
Headquarters located at 111 W Congress St, Charles Town, West Virginia. As a fully online institution, AMU does not maintain traditional campus facilities. Students access all resources digitally, including the online library with 150,000+ ebooks, academic databases, virtual tutoring, and career services.
External Ratings
We don't collect or moderate reviews. Links point to trusted third-party sources.
Photo Gallery
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Guides & Resources
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Alabama's CHOOSE Act: Using ESA Funds for Military School
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National Guard Youth Challenge Academies: What to Expect
A parent's guide to Youth Challenge programs—free residential programs for at-risk teens ages 16-18 run by the National Guard.
Beyond the Uniform: Sports, Arts, and Extracurriculars
Military schools offer far more than marching and discipline. Discover the robust athletic programs, arts opportunities, and leadership clubs that make cadet life well-rounded.
Using 529 Plans for Private K-12 Tuition
Learn how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act allows families to use 529 savings plans for military school tuition. Understand limits, state rules, and strategic planning.
The PG Year Secret: The Post-Graduate Advantage
Many 'seniors' at top military schools are actually 19-year-old graduates doing a 13th year. Learn why a post-graduate year might be the smartest investment for your student.