American Public University System (APSU) vs Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global (IWU)

American Public University System (APUS) and Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global (IWU-NG) are two distinct institutions of higher learning that cater to diverse student populations. APUS, a public university, boasts an open admissions policy, resulting in a higher acceptance rate compared to IWU-NG, a private Christian university with a more selective admissions process. While both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, APUS excels in fields like business, management, and information technology, while IWU-NG is renowned for its nursing, education, and psychology programs. APUS attracts a larger and more diverse student body, with a significant proportion of military-affiliated students, while IWU-NG's student population is predominantly female and slightly older. Graduation rates vary between the two universities, with IWU-NG having a higher overall graduation rate. To help you make an informed decision about your educational journey, we have compiled a comprehensive comparison table that delves into these differences
American Public University System logo

American Public University System

Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global logo

Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global

Overview

Location Charles Town, West Virginia Marion, Indiana
Campus setting Town: Fringe Rural: Fringe
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Private (For Profit) Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system Non Traditional Non Traditional
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 91.0%
Common app member No No
Religious affiliation Methodism

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 $22,962
Average net price $11,916 $18,808
Tuition $6,840 $7,176
Room & board
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Guaranteed tuition plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

78.0%
Average amount $5,082
76.0%
Average amount $5,218
Students receiving federal student loan 36.0%
Average amount $8,334
73.0%
Average amount $6,367
Students taking out private loans 0.0%
Average amount $0
0.0%
Average amount $17,771

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 38,969
Men 63.6% Women 36.4%
5,701
Men 25.7% Women 74.3%
Graduate students 9,329
Men 61.1% Women 38.9%
4,307
Men 30.6% Women 69.4%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Moderate
Low
Out-of-state students N/A N/A
International students 1.3% 3.0%
Campus local/setting Town: Fringe Rural: Fringe
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
  • Health Professions
  • Public Administration and Social Service
  • Education
  • Theology
Students to faculty ratio 22:1 17:1
Institutional accreditation Higher Learning Commission Higher Learning Commission

Outcome

Graduation rate 49.3% 38.0%
Dropout rate 33.6% 60.8%
Transferred out N/A N/A
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
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $83,132
  • Year 2: $98,512
  • Year 3: $97,538
Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $62,056
  • Year 2: $66,155
  • Year 3: $77,832
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $68,657
  • Year 2: $66,326
  • Year 3: $69,352
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $60,518
  • Year 2: $63,353
  • Year 3: $64,849
Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $56,938
  • Year 2: $59,534
  • Year 3: $64,071
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $51,285
  • Year 2: $51,273
  • Year 3: $59,070
Management Information Systems and Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,341
  • Year 2: $55,840
  • Year 3: $58,327
Human Resources Management and Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $50,382
  • Year 2: $54,331
  • Year 3: $57,674
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $48,619
  • Year 2: $52,044
  • Year 3: $56,351
Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $47,151
  • Year 2: $50,606
  • Year 3: $54,745

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the primary differences in academic focus between American Public University System (APUS) and Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global (IWU-NG)?

    APUS, encompassing American Military University (AMU) and American Public University (APU), has a strong focus on career-relevant programs, particularly in fields like military studies, homeland security, criminal justice, and business. IWU-NG, on the other hand, while also offering career-focused programs, integrates a Christian worldview into its curriculum across various disciplines, including business, nursing, education, and ministry. IWU-NG emphasizes leadership development and ethical decision-making from a faith-based perspective.

  • How do the online learning experiences compare between APUS and IWU-NG?

    Both APUS and IWU-NG are primarily online institutions, offering flexible learning options for students. APUS is known for its asynchronous learning environment, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace within set deadlines. IWU-NG also offers online programs, but may incorporate more synchronous elements like live lectures or group discussions, depending on the specific program. Both institutions utilize learning management systems to deliver course content and facilitate interaction.

  • What is the tuition structure like at APUS compared to IWU-NG?

    APUS generally offers a more affordable tuition structure, particularly for active-duty military personnel and veterans, with specific tuition grants available. IWU-NG's tuition is typically higher than APUS, but they offer various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. It's best to check the most current tuition rates and financial aid opportunities directly on each university's website to determine the best fit for your budget.

  • What types of students are each university best suited for?

    APUS is a great fit for students seeking career-focused programs, especially those with military affiliations or interests in public service fields. Its flexible online format and affordable tuition make it accessible to a wide range of learners. IWU-NG is well-suited for students who desire a Christian-centered education that integrates faith into their professional development. It caters to working adults seeking to advance their careers while grounding their studies in Christian values.

  • How do the faculty profiles differ between APUS and IWU-NG?

    APUS faculty often have extensive real-world experience in their respective fields, bringing practical knowledge and insights to the classroom. Many faculty members have backgrounds in the military, law enforcement, or other relevant industries. IWU-NG faculty also possess professional experience, but they are also selected for their commitment to integrating Christian principles into their teaching and mentorship. They often hold advanced degrees and are active in their respective fields.

  • What kind of student support services are available at APUS and IWU-NG?

    Both APUS and IWU-NG offer a range of student support services to help students succeed. APUS provides academic advising, career services, a virtual library, and technical support. IWU-NG offers similar services, including academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, and access to online resources. IWU-NG may also offer spiritual guidance and support services related to faith-based learning.

  • Are there any specific programs that one university excels in compared to the other?

    APUS is particularly well-regarded for its programs in military studies, homeland security, intelligence studies, and criminal justice. IWU-NG is known for its strong programs in nursing, business administration, education, and ministry, with a focus on leadership development and ethical decision-making within a Christian framework. Consider your specific academic interests when making your decision.

  • How do the accreditation statuses of APUS and IWU-NG compare?

    Both American Public University System and Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global are regionally accredited institutions. Regional accreditation is a widely recognized standard of quality in higher education. APUS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). IWU-NG is also accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Accreditation ensures that the universities meet certain standards of academic quality and integrity.

  • What are the key similarities between APUS and IWU-NG?

    Both APUS and IWU-NG are primarily online institutions focused on providing accessible and career-relevant education to adult learners. They both offer a variety of degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels and provide student support services to help students succeed. Both are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

  • How can I learn more about each university and determine which is the best fit for me?

    The best way to learn more is to visit the official websites of both American Public University System (apus.edu) and Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global (indwes.edu). Explore their program offerings, tuition information, student resources, and mission statements. Consider contacting their admissions departments to speak with an advisor and ask specific questions about your academic goals and career aspirations. You can also research student reviews and rankings to gain additional insights.

Compare Similar Colleges

The list of suggested college comparisons provided below is generated automatically by our system, utilizing statistics gathered from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and various online sources. If you don't find the colleges you wish to compare, please visit our comparison page. There, you can search for the specific colleges and initiate your comparison.