APU and SIIA announced a partnership today to support the continuing education needs of SIIA member companies and their employees, reflecting the organizations’ shared commitment to lifelong learning for the betterment of the software and information industry.
The APU/SIIA partnership provides SIIA members with greater access to affordable, quality online education through a variety of relevant APU certificates and degree programs including IT, business, management, entrepreneurship, and instructional design and delivery. In addition, many of APU’s IT programs align with industry certifications, helping increase opportunity for higher credentials in the industry.
”SIIA is honored to participate in this joint effort with American Public University,” said Ken Wasch, president of SIIA. “American Public University offers respected, relevant online programs that will help SIIA members expand their knowledge base and improve their ability to shape the future of the software and education technology industries.”
“Our programs are highly relevant to professionals in the software and digital content industries because we provide an academically rigorous program that provides the skills needed for long-term career success,” said Chad Patrizi, dean of the APU School of Business. “Our academic community will be enhanced as individuals from SIIA and their member companies bring their real-world experiences to our online classrooms and contribute to continued progress and development in these industries.”
Dr. Karen Billings, vice president of SIIA’s Education Division, will serve on the APU School of Business Industry Advisory Council to provide industry feedback and help identify and incorporate new industry trends into the APU curriculum. Beyond APU academic programs, SIIA employees and member companies will also have access to APU podcasts, webcasts, and other educational resources.
SIIA member companies and employees interested in APU graduate programs will be eligible for two scholarships. Recipients will be recognized at the 2013 SIIA Education Business Forum in December. Collaborative financial support and resources will help SIIA members maximize tuition benefits, support their professional development goals, and highlight the shared recognition of the critical role education plays in long-term professional development and sustained organizational success.
More information about the APU-SIIA educational partnership is available at the APU website.
Karen Billings is Vice President for the Education Division at SIIA. Follow the SIIA Education Team on Twitter at @SIIAEducation