The Auxiliary University Programs (AUP) is a United States Coast Guard Auxiliary-managed initiative established in 2007. Today AUP now has nearly 200 students in 20 units representing over 30 colleges and universities across the United States. The Auxiliary University Program (AUP) prepares undergraduate and graduate students for future public service inside and outside of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. AUP provides opportunities for students to gain boating education, to learn about homeland security, and to gain operational and leadership experience.