The plan for the University of Mid-America to establish the autonomous, fully accredited American Open University (AOU) is presented. AOU, a university for working adults who wish to study part-time, will utilize modern communications technologies and methods of distance education. The American Open University will be a nationwide system that will provide educational opportunities for adults who are unwilling or unable to participate in conventional programs. The AOU programs will supplement those of conventional institutions by providing a curriculum for each degree that students can complete through testing and transfer services along. A program of AOU-sponsored instruction will be offered in each degree program for students requiring additional course work to complete the degree. These courses will be made available to students through innovative delivery techniques that utilize the mails, various communication media, and the network of local study centers created by AOU. AOU will award credit for learning through transfer of credits from other institutions, through standardized examinations, and through assessment of learning from experience. Credit will also be awarded for military occupation specialities and for noncollegiate courses approved for credit by the American Council on Education. It is argued that American adults need continuing access to educational opportunities so that they can keep pace with the changes in society. A summary of AOU programs and services is attached. (CC)