Academic Freedom & Open Curriculum

Four Pillars of Success

The AIU Virtual Campus and its embedded Technologies facilitate student advancement and form the first of four pillars supporting the institutional manifest. The Academic Department and student support team members who guide, motivate and mentor students provide the second. The third pillar is the innovative structure of the program, in particular Phase 1 and 2 which transforms students into a University of One during the first 3 months of the academic journey. Here, students take a leading role in the determination of the content of the program because it will increase deep learning, emotional involvement, and a real desire to learn. A clear definition of their personal and professional aspirations during the start of the program is vital so that their educational journey can become a bridge to those aspirations. 

There is an ongoing de-emphasize on the need for a degree to prosper and advance professionally; instead, skills, abilities, and practical knowledge are gaining greater value and Phases 1 & 2 of the AIU degree program address these tendencies through an open curriculum design that is unique to each student. Finally, the fourth pillar is a commitment to human rights and to contribute positively to society which is the purpose of the AIU Pledge. There is a need to have inspired motivated students that contribute to society and solve its many challenges. Little emphasis is given to this in a traditional curriculum as there is no place for it or overarching link between courses. AIU’s innovative academic programs seek to provide the conditions in which its students can fill that need.