APUS Launches New Academic Offerings to Help Meet Rising Demand for Digital Skills and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Rhea-AI Summary

American Public University System (NYSE: APEI) launched new degree programs, four concentrations, and MIT-powered coursework to meet rising demand for digital and AI skills.

Key items: a Master of Science in Computer Science, a Bachelor of Science in AI expected summer 2026, concentrations in Quantum Computing, Robotics and Autonomous Systems, Blockchain and Digital Currency, and Climate Change and Resilience, plus licensed CSAIL Machine Learning content.

Key Figures

Master of Science in Computer Science: 1 new master’s program Bachelor of Science in AI: Program expected summer 2026 New concentrations: 4 new concentrations +3 more

6 metrics

Master of Science in Computer Science 1 new master’s program APUS School of STEM launch

Bachelor of Science in AI Program expected summer 2026 New undergraduate AI degree

New concentrations 4 new concentrations Quantum Computing, Robotics, Blockchain, Climate Change

Machine Learning in Business MIT CSAIL-powered course Already available through APUS School of STEM

User Experience Design Course planned spring 2026 MIT CSAIL-powered content

Additional programs 2026 3 new programs BS Biology, BS Finance, MS Finance later in 2026

Market Reality Check

Price: $44.59 Vol: Volume 410,526 is 1.83x t...

high vol

$44.59 Last Close

Volume Volume 410,526 is 1.83x the 20-day average of 224,316, indicating elevated interest ahead of this AI/STEM launch. high

Technical Price at 44.59 trades above the 200-day MA 33.72 and sits 2.41% below the 52-week high 45.69, far above the 18.77 low.

Peers on Argus

APEI gained 2.67% while close peers showed mixed moves: LINC +5.47%, GOTU +1.92%...

APEI gained 2.67% while close peers showed mixed moves: LINC +5.47%, GOTU +1.92%, UDMY +1.51%, but QSG -3.06% and KLC -5.04%. The mix suggests this AI-driven program expansion was more company-specific than a broad education-sector move.

Previous AI Reports

4 past events · Latest: Nov 24 (Positive)

Same Type Pattern 4 events

Date	Event	Sentiment	Move	Catalyst
Nov 24	AI course licensing	Positive	-1.5%	MIT CSAIL licensing to power new AI-focused APUS courses.
Aug 20	AI conference recap	Positive	-3.5%	Virtual conference on AI and education with >1,000 global registrants.
Jul 15	AI conference announcement	Positive	+3.5%	Announcement of free virtual conference on AI in higher education.
Jul 09	AI career tool rollout	Positive	-2.0%	Rasmussen adding AI-powered mock interview tool to career services.

Pattern Detected

Past AI-tagged announcements often saw weak or negative next-day moves despite positive strategic content, with only one of four prior AI events producing a positive reaction.

Recent Company History

Over the past year, APEI has repeatedly highlighted AI in its strategy. In July–August 2024, APUS co-hosted virtual conferences on AI and the Future of Education, followed by an AI-powered mock interview rollout at Rasmussen. On Nov 24, 2025, APUS announced an MIT CSAIL content licensing deal for AI-focused courses. Today’s launch of new computer science, AI degrees, and concentrations extends this pattern of embedding AI across curricula and student services.

Historical Comparison

-0.9% avg move · Historically, AI-tagged news for APEI saw an average move of -0.86%, with mostly muted or negative r...

AI

-0.9%

Average Historical Move AI

Historically, AI-tagged news for APEI saw an average move of -0.86%, with mostly muted or negative reactions despite positive initiatives, making any strong upside on this AI program launch stand out.

AI activity progressed from conferences and virtual tools in 2024 to an MIT CSAIL content deal in 2025, culminating in full degree programs and concentrations centered on AI and digital skills.

Market Pulse Summary

This announcement expands APUS’s AI and digital skills footprint with a new Master of Science in Com...

Analysis

This announcement expands APUS’s AI and digital skills footprint with a new Master of Science in Computer Science, an upcoming Bachelor of Science in AI, and four specialized concentrations. It builds on the existing MIT CSAIL-powered courses, including Machine Learning in Business. Historically, AI-tagged news for APEI averaged a -0.86% move, so investors may track how these offerings translate into enrollment, pricing power, and future updates on additional programs planned for 2026.

Key Terms

quantum computing, blockchain, digital currency, machine learning, +3 more

7 terms

quantum computing technical

"Quantum Computing (within the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science), addressing the growing impact of quantum technologies"

Quantum computing is a type of advanced technology that uses the principles of quantum physics to perform calculations much faster than traditional computers. It can process vast amounts of information simultaneously, potentially solving complex problems that are currently impossible or take too long with regular computers. For investors, this technology could lead to breakthroughs in areas like cryptography, data analysis, and optimization, impacting financial markets and security systems.

blockchain technical

"Blockchain and Digital Currency (within the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology), focusing on decentralized technologies"

A blockchain is a digital record-keeping system that securely stores information across many computers, making it difficult to alter or tamper with. Think of it like a shared, unchangeable ledger that everyone can see and verify, ensuring transparency and trust. For investors, this technology offers a way to securely track transactions and assets without relying on a central authority, potentially reducing costs and increasing security.

digital currency financial

"Blockchain and Digital Currency (within the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology), focusing on decentralized technologies"

A digital currency is money that exists only in electronic form, represented by balances in online ledgers or as digital tokens and issued by either governments, banks, or private platforms. Investors care because it can change how value is stored, moved and traded — offering faster payments and new asset types but also extra price swings, security risks and regulatory uncertainty; think of it as cash or a bank account rebuilt for the internet.

machine learning technical

"A Machine Learning in Business course is now available for students"

Machine learning is a set of computer programs that learn patterns from large amounts of data and improve their predictions or decisions over time, like a recipe that gets better each time it’s adjusted based on taste tests. For investors it matters because these systems can speed up analysis, spot trends or risks humans might miss, automate routine work, and potentially create competitive advantages or cost savings that affect a company’s performance.

user experience design technical

"a User Experience Design course is planned in spring 2026 through APUS's School of STEM"

User experience design is the practice of shaping how people interact with a product or service so those interactions feel clear, efficient and pleasant — like arranging a kitchen so every tool is easy to find and use. For investors, strong user experience can drive higher customer satisfaction, repeat use and lower support costs, which in turn can boost revenue growth, retention and the long-term value of a business.

licensing agreement financial

"APUS is also expanding its course content through a previously announced licensing agreement with MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory"

A licensing agreement is a contract where one party gives another the right to use a product, technology, brand, patent or other protected asset in exchange for fees or royalties. For investors, it matters because such deals can provide steady revenue without the licensor bearing all the costs of production or distribution, change a company’s growth prospects, and alter risk depending on whether the rights are exclusive or limited — like renting out a tool instead of selling it outright.

artificial intelligence technical

"help Meet Rising Demand for Digital Skills and Artificial Intelligence (AI)"

Artificial intelligence is the ability of computers and machines to perform tasks that typically require human thinking, such as understanding language, recognizing patterns, or making decisions. For investors, it matters because AI can enhance efficiency, uncover new insights, and enable smarter strategies, potentially impacting the value and performance of companies that develop or utilize this technology.

AI-generated analysis. Not financial advice.

Students Can Now Enroll in Highly Relevant Courses and Concentrations, Including a Master's Degree in Computer Science and MIT-powered Coursework

CHARLES TOWN, W.Va., Feb. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- American Public University System (APUS) students are now able to register for an exciting new degree program, four new concentrations, and high-demand coursework designed to prepare them for leadership in today's increasingly digital world. One new program, the Master of Science in Computer Science through APUS's School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), reflects the growing importance of advanced computing with AI skills needed across nearly every industry. 

Another new program, the Bachelor of Science in AI, is expected to be available for students in summer 2026.

"Computer science and AI have become a catalyst to innovation and economic growth," said APUS Provost Dr. Elizabeth Joy Johnson. "In recognition of that, our University is expanding access to a relevant education that teaches skills needed to succeed in today's workplace." 

The University has launched several new cutting-edge concentrations including: 

• Quantum Computing (within the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science), addressing the growing impact of quantum technologies on cybersecurity, data processing, and advanced computation.
  
  
• Robotics and Autonomous Systems (within the Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering), preparing students to work with intelligent machines, automation and next-generation systems.
  
  
• Blockchain and Digital Currency (within the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology), focusing on decentralized technologies transforming finance and global commerce. 
  
  
• Climate Change and Resilience (within the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science), giving students an interdisciplinary approach to understanding climate change, and adapting to its risks and impacts on both ecological and human systems. 

"These new offerings reflect both technological innovation and real-world application," said Dr. Brian Freeland, Dean of the School of STEM and the School of Health Sciences. "By integrating computer science, analytics, and AI across multiple disciplines, from engineering and IT to environmental science, we are helping students build highly valued, future-ready skill sets." 

APUS is also expanding its course content through a previously announced licensing agreement with MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL). A Machine Learning in Business course is now available for students, and a User Experience Design course is planned in spring 2026 through APUS's School of STEM. 

What's more, the University anticipates three other new programs to be offered later in 2026: the Bachelor of Science in Biology; the Bachelor of Science in Finance; and the Master of Science in Finance.

For more information about programs in the STEM school, visit: https://www.apu.apus.edu/online-colleges-and-schools/school-of-science-tech-engineering-math/ 

ABOUT AMERICAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITY SYSTEM

American Public University System (APUS) delivers affordable, high-quality, workforce-relevant higher education. With a rich, 34-year history and vibrant community of over 162,000 alumni from more than 80 countries, APUS is recognized for its innovative approach to online learning¹. 

APUS, which includes American Military University (AMU) and American Public University (APU), is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. APUS is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Public Education, Inc. (Nasdaq: APEI). For more information, visit www.apus.edu.

¹APUS has been honored with the Online Learning Consortium's Gomory Award for Quality Online Education and is a five-time recipient of the consortium's Effective Practice Award https://www.apus.edu/newsroom/awards/.

American Public University System, American Public University, and American Military University are not affiliated with American University or the U.S. Military. 

Media Contact
Meg Sheeley
Manager, Public Relations
MSheeley@apus.edu 

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SOURCE American Public University System

FAQ

What new degree did APUS (APEI) announce on February 17, 2026?

APUS announced a new Master of Science in Computer Science to expand advanced computing and AI skills training. According to the company, the program sits in the School of STEM and targets advanced computing and AI leadership roles across industries.

When will APUS (APEI) offer the Bachelor of Science in AI?

The Bachelor of Science in AI is expected to be available in summer 2026 for student enrollment. According to the company, the program launch aims to prepare students for AI-related roles with focused coursework and concentrations.

What MIT collaboration did APUS (APEI) expand for AI coursework?

APUS expanded content via a licensing agreement with MIT CSAIL, adding a Machine Learning in Business course now available. According to the company, a User Experience Design course is planned for spring 2026 through the School of STEM.

Which new concentrations did APUS (APEI) add within its STEM programs?

APUS added concentrations in Quantum Computing, Robotics and Autonomous Systems, Blockchain and Digital Currency, and Climate Change and Resilience. According to the company, these options integrate AI and analytics across computer science, engineering, IT, and environmental science.

What other programs does APUS (APEI) plan to offer later in 2026?

APUS anticipates offering BS in Biology, BS in Finance, and an MS in Finance later in 2026. According to the company, these additions expand academic breadth across life sciences and finance within the coming year.