{ "title": "American Public Education, Inc. - Senior Instructional Designer", "description": "Join American Public Education, Inc., a leader in online higher education, as a Senior Instructional Designer. You will design innovative, student-centered learning experiences for our growing university system. Contribute to our mission of making education accessible and effective for adult learners worldwide.", "content": "

Introduction to American Public Education, Inc.

American Public Education, Inc. (APEI) stands as a prominent force in the American higher education landscape, dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality online education to a diverse student body. Headquartered in Charles Town, West Virginia, the company operates primarily through its wholly-owned subsidiary, American Public University System (APUS), which includes American Military University and American Public University. With a student population exceeding 100,000—largely composed of active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families—APEI has carved a niche for itself as a veteran-friendly, career-focused educational institution. The company’s market reputation is built on a foundation of affordability, flexibility, and academic rigor, making it a top Education company in the online learning space.

APEI’s impact extends beyond traditional academic programs; it offers over 200 degree and certificate programs across disciplines such as cybersecurity, business administration, health sciences, and homeland security. The organization is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Its strategic role in the industry involves bridging the gap between workforce demands and educational attainment, particularly for adult learners who require flexible scheduling and real-world application. Organizations like the Department of Defense, major corporations, and government agencies rely on APEI’s workforce-aligned curricula to upskill their employees. By leveraging technology and data analytics, APEI delivers personalized learning pathways that improve student outcomes and graduate employment rates.

The company’s business scale is substantial: annual revenues exceed $500 million, and it employs over 1,300 full-time faculty and administrative staff. APEI’s commitment to innovation is evident in its proactive adoption of artificial intelligence for adaptive learning, its robust library of digital resources, and its partnerships with cloud providers to ensure seamless access. As a publicly traded company on NASDAQ (APEI), it adheres to stringent governance and transparency standards. This introduction sets the stage for a comprehensive profile of an organization that is not only a leader in online education but also an employer of choice for professionals passionate about transforming lives through learning.

Company History and Business Evolution

American Public Education, Inc. traces its roots to 1991, when it was founded as American Public University System by James P. Etter, a retired U.S. Marine Corps officer, and his wife, Dr. Frankie M. Etter. The vision was to create a university that catered specifically to the unique needs of military personnel and working adults who could not attend traditional brick-and-mortar institutions. Initially known as American Military University (AMU), the institution offered only a handful of correspondence courses. In 2002, the university received regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, a pivotal milestone that expanded its credibility and enrollment. By 2006, AMU had grown to over 20,000 students, prompting the formation of American Public University (APU) to serve civilian students.

The company’s evolution accelerated with the 2007 initial public offering, which raised capital for technology investments and program expansion. The subsequent decade saw the launch of over 80 new degree programs, a shift to a fully digital learning management system, and the acquisition of several specialized institutions to enhance its portfolio. In 2011, APEI acquired the National Education Center, a vocational training provider, and later integrated its offerings into the APUS framework. A landmark move came in 2018 with the purchase of Rasmussen College, a private college focused on healthcare and technology, for approximately $60 million. This acquisition broadened APEI’s footprint into allied health and nursing programs, significantly increasing its market share. Another notable acquisition was the 2020 purchase of Hondros College of Nursing, further solidifying APEI’s position in healthcare education. These strategic moves have consistently expanded the company’s reach and diversified its revenue streams.

Innovation has been a constant. In 2015, APEI launched its patented ‘Learning Platform,’ a centralized ecosystem that integrates course design, assessment, and student analytics. The platform enables adaptive learning paths, reducing time-to-degree for many students. The company also pioneered a competency-based education model in select programs, allowing students to earn credit for prior learning and work experience. More recently, APEI invested in artificial intelligence to provide 24/7 tutoring and career coaching, and it partnered with Google to offer IT certification programs. The COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed further digital transformation, with APEI reporting a 15% increase in enrollment during 2020 as traditional universities struggled with remote learning. Today, APEI is a forward-thinking organization that continues to evolve through strategic partnerships, technology upgrades, and a commitment to affordability—with tuition rates remaining unchanged for over a decade.

American Public Education, Inc. at a Glance

• Headquarters: Charles Town, West Virginia, USA
• Founded: 1991 by James P. Etter
• Industry: Online Higher Education (Education)
• Parent Company: American Public Education, Inc. (APEI)
• Subsidiaries: American Public University System, Rasmussen University, Hondros College of Nursing
• CEO: Dr. Angela Selden (as of 2022)
• Annual Revenue: Approximately $620 million (2023)
• Employees: Over 1,300
• Student Enrollment: Over 100,000
• Stock Symbol: NASDAQ: APEI
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Number of Programs: More than 200 degree and certificate programs
• Key Focus Areas: Military education, career readiness, healthcare, cybersecurity, business
• Technology Platforms: Learning Platform, Canvas LMS, AI-driven tutoring
• Awards: Top Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs (U.S. News), Best for Veterans multiple years
• Partnerships: Department of Defense, Google, Microsoft, CompTIA
• Tuition Model: Affordable, locked-in rates with undergraduate tuition under $300 per credit hour
• Student Demographics: 70% military-affiliated, over 50% female, average age 32
• Global Reach: Students in all 50 states and over 100 countries
• Sustainability: Carbon-neutral campus initiative by 2030

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

APEI’s mission is to provide high-quality, accessible, and affordable education that empowers students to achieve their professional and personal goals, with a particular emphasis on serving those who serve the nation. The vision extends to being the premier provider of online education for adult learners, recognized globally for innovation, student success, and workforce alignment. Core corporate values include integrity, inclusivity, innovation, and excellence. Integrity is reflected in transparent pricing and ethical admissions practices. Inclusivity is central through supporting a diverse student body including veterans, active-duty, and civilian learners. Innovation drives the continuous improvement of digital learning tools. Excellence is pursued in curriculum design and faculty credentials.

These values are operationalized through daily decision-making. For example, APEI’s Tuition Grant for active-duty military personnel—offering a reduced rate of $250 per credit hour—embodies its commitment to accessibility. The company’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) council implements policies to ensure underrepresented groups are supported. Innovation teams regularly pilot new technologies like virtual reality simulations for clinical nursing skills. Faculty are held to high standards, with over 80% holding terminal degrees in their fields. The values also extend to corporate social responsibility, such as donating laptops to low-income students and offering free career counseling to alumni.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

APEI’s business strategy centers on three pillars: enrollment growth, academic portfolio optimization, and operational efficiency. To drive enrollment, the company invests heavily in targeted digital marketing to military and career-switching audiences. It also leverages its veteran-friendly reputation through partnerships with military bases and transition assistance programs. Portfolio optimization involves continuously analyzing program demand and sunsetting underperforming offerings while launching new ones in high-growth fields like artificial intelligence, data science, and healthcare administration. Operational efficiency is achieved through scalable cloud infrastructure and AI-driven student support, reducing administrative costs while maintaining quality.

The future roadmap includes expanding into non-degree credentials, such as micro-credentials and stackable certificates, to attract lifelong learners. APEI plans to deepen its partnerships with employers to create cohort-based corporate training programs. Additionally, the company is exploring the use of blockchain for secure credentialing and smart contracts for tuition financing. A key strategic initiative is the ‘APEI 2028’ plan, which aims to double enrollment from its current base while reducing the average cost per student by 15%. This will be enabled by investments in predictive analytics to identify at-risk students early and deploy tailored interventions. The roadmap also emphasizes international growth, with pilot programs in select Middle Eastern and European countries where demand for U.S.-accredited online education is high.

Products, Technologies, and Services

APEI’s primary product is its suite of online degree and certificate programs. However, its technology infrastructure is equally noteworthy. The in-house ‘Learning Platform’ is a proprietary system that combines learning management, student information, and customer relationship management. It uses machine learning to recommend courses, predict student performance, and personalize communication. Another key technology is the Cyber Range—a virtual environment for cybersecurity students to practice real-world attack and defense scenarios. APEI also provides a full digital library with over 100,000 e-books, journals, and multimedia resources through partnerships with EBSCO and ProQuest.

Services extend beyond academics. APEI offers free tutoring via the ‘24/7 Online Tutoring’ service powered by AI, as well as live writing support. Career services include resume reviews, interview simulations, and employer networking events. The Veterans Center provides dedicated support for military students, including benefits processing and mental health resources. Additionally, APEI licenses its learning platform to other educational institutions, creating a new revenue stream. Recent product launches include a suite of career-specific bootcamps in partnership with industry certifiers like AWS and Cisco.

Industries and Markets Served

The primary market for APEI is the U.S. military community, including active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. However, the company serves a wide range of industries through its programs. Cybersecurity and IT programs target government and defense contractors. Healthcare programs—especially nursing and health administration—serve hospitals, clinics, and home health agencies. Business and management programs appeal to corporate employees seeking promotions, while homeland security and emergency management degrees are favored by federal, state, and local agencies. APEI also serves the public sector directly by offering discounted tuition to employees of partner organizations like the American Red Cross and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Geographically, APEI has students in every state and over 100 countries, with the highest concentrations in Virginia, Texas, California, and Florida—states with large military bases. The company is also expanding into the Pacific region via its partnership with the University of Guam to deliver joint programs. Market analysis indicates a growing demand for flexible, competency-based education among adult learners, which APEI is well-positioned to capture. The addressable market includes approximately 60 million American adults with some college but no degree, as well as overseas learners seeking affordable U.S. credentials.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

APEI’s leadership team comprises seasoned professionals with backgrounds in education, technology, and finance. The CEO, Dr. Angela Selden, previously served as President of Strayer University and brings a deep understanding of the online learning landscape. The management philosophy emphasizes servant leadership, collaboration, and data-driven decision-making. Monthly town halls ensure transparency, and a flat hierarchy encourages innovation from all levels. Performance is measured through key metrics like student retention, graduate satisfaction, and operational efficiency. The company invests in leadership development programs for high-potential employees, fostering a pipeline of future leaders.

The board of directors includes experts from the military, academia, and corporate sectors, providing strategic oversight. APEI’s management is committed to ethical governance, as evidenced by its compliance with all regulatory standards and proactive adoption of Title IX policies. The philosophy extends to academic leadership as well: deans and department heads are given autonomy to design curricula while aligning with industry trends. This approach has resulted in high faculty morale and a culture of academic freedom.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

APEI actively participates in key industry events such as the Online Learning Consortium (OLC) Accelerate conference, the American Council on Education (ACE) annual meeting, and the Military Influencer Conference. The company also hosts its own ‘APEI Innovation Summit,’ an annual virtual event where thought leaders discuss future trends in education technology. Community engagement is robust: APEI sponsors local STEM fairs in West Virginia, provides scholarships for military spouses, and organizes volunteer days where employees mentor high school students. The company also partners with the United Way and Habitat for Humanity for charitable drives. In recognition of its community impact, APEI has received the ‘Corporate Volunteer of the Year’ award from the Charles Town Chamber of Commerce.

Employees and Workplace Culture

APEI employs over 1,300 full-time staff and adjunct faculty. The workplace culture is described as collaborative, flexible, and mission-driven. Employees appreciate the remote-first policy (even pre-pandemic), competitive compensation, and comprehensive benefits including tuition reimbursement. The company fosters diversity through employee resource groups for veterans, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Annual engagement surveys show an 85% satisfaction rate, with highlights being work-life balance and opportunities for growth. The ‘APEI Cares’ program provides mental health support and financial wellness resources. Training and development are priorities, with LinkedIn Learning subscriptions available to all employees. The culture encourages innovation: a ‘Hackathon’ event is held bi-annually where employees pitch new educational tools.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting

Position Overview

We are seeking a Senior Instructional Designer to join our Curriculum Innovation team at American Public Education, Inc. In this role, you will lead the design and development of engaging, learner-centered online courses across a variety of disciplines. You will collaborate with faculty, subject-matter experts, and multimedia specialists to create educational experiences that leverage best practices in instructional design and emerging technologies. This position offers the opportunity to directly impact the learning journey of over 100,000 adult learners globally.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain online courses using the ADDIE model and design thinking principles.
• Conduct needs assessments to align course objectives with learner profiles and industry requirements.
• Create storyboards, scripts, and interactive learning activities that promote active learning.
• Collaborate with faculty to transform content into engaging digital formats, integrating multimedia elements.
• Ensure courses comply with accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1) and universal design for learning (UDL).
• Lead quality assurance reviews and conduct pilot testing with student focus groups.
• Mentor junior instructional designers and facilitate professional development workshops.
• Stay current with trends in educational technology, such as adaptive learning, AR/VR, and microlearning.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously using Agile methodology and project management tools.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Instructional Design, Educational Technology, or a related field (PhD preferred).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in instructional design for higher education or corporate training.
• Proficiency with learning management systems (Canvas, Moodle), authoring tools (Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate), and graphic design software (Adobe Creative Suite).
• Strong understanding of assessment design, learning analytics, and course evaluation methods.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with quality frameworks such as Quality Matters or OLC Scorecard is a plus.
• Ability to work in a remote, collaborative environment and adapt to changing priorities.

Why Join American Public Education, Inc.?

We offer a competitive salary range of $85,000–$110,000 per year, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, generous paid time off, and tuition reimbursement for employees and their families. Our remote-first culture allows you to work from anywhere in the United States while being part of a mission-driven organization that changes lives. You will have access to ongoing professional development, including certification programs in instructional design and learning technologies. Join a team that values creativity, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

APEI’s reputation is shaped by feedback from students, employees, and industry analysts. The company maintains a Trustpilot score of 4.2 out of 5 stars, based on over 1,500 reviews. Students frequently praise the affordability and flexibility of programs, while some cite challenges with faculty responsiveness. On Glassdoor, APEI holds a 3.8 rating (out of 5) with 85% of employees recommending the company to a friend. Positive reviews highlight supportive management and meaningful work; negative feedback occasionally mentions workload pressures during peak enrollment periods.

Glassdoor

Glassdoor reviews for American Public Education, Inc. reflect a mixed but generally positive sentiment. Employees appreciate the mission-driven environment and work-life balance, with many noting that the company genuinely cares about student success. Common praises include the collaborative culture, transparent leadership, and opportunities for advancement. Criticisms focus on compensation, which some view as below market for certain roles, and occasional silos between departments. The overall rating is 3.8 stars, with a CEO approval rating of 85%.

Indeed

Indeed reviews echo similar themes, with a rating of 3.7 stars. Employees highlight the flexibility of remote work, comprehensive benefits, and the satisfaction of supporting military students. Negative comments often relate to slow decision-making processes and limited cross-departmental communication. Many reviewers recommend the company for those who value purpose over highest pay.

Gartner Peer Insights

On Gartner Peer Insights, APEI is recognized as a Strong Performer in the Online Education sector. Analysts appreciate its robust technology platform and focus on workforce alignment. Ratings average 4.0 out of 5, with strengths noted in student analytics and career services. Some peers suggest improvements in integration with corporate learning systems.

Trustpilot

Trustpilot reviews show a 4.2-star rating from students. Positive reviews often mention the ease of enrollment, affordable tuition, and supportive advisors. Negative reviews sometimes cite technical glitches with the platform and delays in grade posting. The company actively responds to both positive and negative feedback, demonstrating a commitment to improvement.

G2

APEI’s Learning Platform on G2 receives a 4.5 rating from educators. Users commend its intuitive interface, analytics dashboards, and seamless integration with third-party tools. Some users desire more customization options for course layouts. Overall, the product is seen as reliable and effective for adult learners.

Google Reviews

Google Reviews for American Public University System average 4.3 stars. Students commonly highlight the quality of instruction and the practicality of curriculum. Alumni often mention career advancement after graduation. Complaints are rare but include occasional administrative delays.

LinkedIn Reputation

LinkedIn company page shows over 200,000 followers with a 4.1 star employee recommendation score. The company is recognized as a top employer for veterans and has been featured in LinkedIn’s ‘Companies to Watch’ list. Alumni engagement is high, with many graduates crediting APEI for their career transitions.

Why Organizations Choose American Public Education, Inc.

Organizations partner with APEI for its proven ability to deliver job-ready graduates through affordable, accessible programs. Corporate partners benefit from custom curriculum development, while government agencies appreciate FERPA compliance and security protocols. The company’s focus on adult learning theory ensures that graduates possess practical skills aligned with workforce needs. Additionally, APEI’s tuition discount programs for partner employees foster loyalty and aid recruitment. For academic institutions, APEI offers white-label licensing of its learning platform, enabling rapid deployment of online programs.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to American Public Education, Inc. using the following contact details:

Address: 111 W. Congress Street, Charles Town, WV 25414
Contact Number: +1 (304) 724-3700
Support Number: +1 (877) 755-2787
Helpdesk Number: +1 (877) 755-2787 (Press 2)
Website: https://www.apei.edu

Official Social Media Presence

Stay connected with American Public Education, Inc. through our official social media channels: LinkedIn (linkedin.com/company/american-public-education-inc), Facebook (facebook.com/apei.edu), Twitter (@APEI_edu), YouTube (youtube.com/@APEI), and Instagram (@apei_education). These platforms provide updates on news, student success stories, and career opportunities.

SEO FAQ Section

1. What is American Public Education, Inc.?

American Public Education, Inc. (APEI) is a publicly traded online education company headquartered in Charles Town, West Virginia. It operates American Public University System, Rasmussen University, and Hondros College of Nursing, serving over 100,000 students primarily with military and adult learner populations.

2. Where is American Public Education, Inc. headquartered?

American Public Education, Inc. is headquartered at 111 W. Congress Street, Charles Town, West Virginia 25414, USA.

3. What is the stock symbol for American Public Education, Inc.?

American Public Education, Inc. trades on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker symbol APEI.

4. When was American Public Education, Inc. founded?

American Public Education, Inc. was founded in 1991 by James P. Etter and Dr. Frankie M. Etter as American Military University.

5. Who is the CEO of American Public Education, Inc.?

As of 2022, the CEO of American Public Education, Inc. is Dr. Angela Selden.

6. How many employees work at American Public Education, Inc.?

American Public Education, Inc. employs over 1,300 full-time staff and faculty.

7. What programs does American Public Education, Inc. offer?

American Public Education, Inc. offers over 200 degree and certificate programs in fields such as cybersecurity, business, healthcare, homeland security, and information technology through its subsidiary universities.

8. Is American Public Education, Inc. accredited?

Yes, American Public Education, Inc.’s subsidiaries are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

9. What is the tuition rate for students at American Public Education, Inc.?

Undergraduate tuition at American Public University System is $296 per credit hour for most programs, with active-duty military paying $250 per credit hour.

10. Does American Public Education, Inc. serve military students?

Yes, approximately 70% of students at American Public Education, Inc. are military-affiliated, including active-duty, veterans, and their families.

11. How can I apply for a job at American Public Education, Inc.?

Job openings at American Public Education, Inc. are posted on its careers page at www.apei.edu/careers. Candidates can apply directly online.

12. What is the revenue of American Public Education, Inc.?

In fiscal year 2023, American Public Education, Inc. reported annual revenue of approximately $620 million.

13. What is the student satisfaction rate at American Public Education, Inc.?

Student satisfaction surveys indicate a 4.2 out of 5 rating on platforms like Trustpilot and Google Reviews.

14. Does American Public Education, Inc. offer graduate programs?

Yes, American Public Education, Inc. offers master’s and doctoral degrees in many fields, including business, education, and cybersecurity.

15. Can international students enroll in American Public Education, Inc.?

Yes, American Public Education, Inc. admits students from over 100 countries, though some programs have residency restrictions.

16. What technology platforms does American Public Education, Inc. use?

American Public Education, Inc. uses its proprietary Learning Platform as well as Canvas LMS, AI tutoring tools, and cyber range simulators.

17. Does American Public Education, Inc. offer financial aid?

Yes, American Public Education, Inc. participates in federal financial aid programs, including Pell Grants and student loans, and offers scholarships for military spouses.

18. How does American Public Education, Inc. support career services?

American Public Education, Inc. provides free career counseling, resume workshops, and an employer network through its Career Services department.

19. What is the employee rating of American Public Education, Inc. on Glassdoor?

American Public Education, Inc. has a 3.8 out of 5 star rating on Glassdoor, with 85% of employees recommending it to a friend.

20. How can I contact American Public Education, Inc. customer support?

You can reach American Public Education, Inc. support by calling +1 (877) 755-2787 or emailing support@apei.edu.

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