Academic Partnerships (“AP”), a company that helps primarily regional public universities expand access and impact through online programmes, has recently announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Wiley University Services, a division of Wiley (NYSE: WLY). The merged organisation will serve over 125 colleges and universities in 40 states worldwide.
Academic Partnerships, founded in 2007, aims to expand access to high-quality, affordable, and workforce-relevant education, especially for working and adult students. In collaboration with university partners, the company brings an unwavering dedication to student success, an integrated set of services, and data-driven performance. It focuses on helping regional public universities launch and maintain online programmes.
Following the transaction’s completion, the combined company will provide universities with a best-in-class partner to assist them in delivering programmes online, allowing more students to access affordable education, advance their careers, and meet the needs of employers and communities.
Speaking on the deal, Chief Executive Officer of Academic Partnerships, Fernando Bleichmar, said:
There is growing demand for high-quality, affordable online degree programs in workforce-relevant fields across the globe. Bringing together AP and Wiley University Services will better enable the combined company to help universities meet students where they are with high-quality, timely online education in our rapidly changing world. The combined company will have the resources and expertise to provide best-in-class services to our university partners and their students from diverse backgrounds, including working adults and professionals.
The merged company will provide new strategic benefits to university partners and students, such as:
- Additional resources to support and scale high-demand, affordable online degree programs in critical areas like nursing, teaching, business, technology, and public administration for both regional public and private nonprofit universities;
- Enhanced infrastructure and technology to serve a diverse student population, including working adults, through graduation;
- Improved opportunities across the university partner network and
- Advanced technology and enhanced support services based on best practices from a combined company.
Interim Chief Executive Officer of Wiley, Matthew Kissner, added:
Wiley University Services’ new home with AP will provide the resources to serve its talented employees and institutional clients best. This agreement also marks an essential step in our transition to a simpler, more focused Wiley as we leverage our unique competitive advantages and substantial market opportunities in Research and Learning.
The transaction is expected to close by early 2024, subject to regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including obtaining clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act.
Winston & Strawn will serve as Academic Partnerships’ legal counsel as part of the agreement. Wiley’s financial advisor is Centerview Partners LLC, and its legal advisor is Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP.
Wiley serves the world’s researchers, learners, innovators, and leaders, assisting them in achieving their goals and addressing the world’s most significant challenges. The company has been fulfilling its timeless mission of unlocking human potential for over two centuries.
