We are a University of strivers and dreamers, of activists and artists, of scholars and servant-leaders. We realize that when we all contribute, we all succeed. We are, quite literally, one-AU.
American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Our students distinguish themselves for their service, leadership, and ability to rethink global and domestic challenges and opportunities.At AU passion becomes action; students actively engage in the world around them; and the leaders of today train the leaders of tomorrow.
With eight schools and over 160 programs including bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, American University students choose a personalized curriculum of theoretical study and experiential learning, taught by internationally-recognized faculty in courses that take them from the classroom, to the nation’s capital, and all around the globe.
Nestled in a residential district of Washington, DC, our 90-acre campus gives you the advantages of a traditional college setting combined with unparalleled access to the energy, culture, and opportunities of our nation's capital.We're an intimate community within an urban city, where the stunning sights of our city are never far from view. Relax with your friends on our beautiful grounds (a designated arboretum) one moment; take an impromptu trip to the National Mall the next.Whether you're learning in our century-old structures and state-of-the-art facilities, experiencing the arts in our museums and theatres, or venturing out into the city, American University offers endless opportunities.
American University's Office of Human Resources invites you to explore a career at AU if you are looking for a place to grow personally and professionally and do meaningful work. We value the strengths and contributions of our staff and faculty and have an engaged community committed to the student experience.Our internationally recognized faculty are today's thought leaders in the areas of public policy, law, the arts, communications, international development, and more. Our staff are innovative, service-oriented, and dedicated to moving the university towards achieving its strategic goals. We share a passion for creating change through our knowledge and our work.American University provides a comprehensive benefits package, a flexible, supportive environment, and rewarding work that helps you to achieve a fulfilling work-life balance.
Sustainability, as a classroom and research topic, is naturally cross-disciplinary and provides an opportunity to connect students and faculty with varying academic interests to collaborate. Students can enroll in courses that include sustainability in every school at American University and many faculty members are engaged in research that contributes to the breadth and depth of knowledge in sustainability. More than 500 faculty members have been certified through the Green Teaching Program which focuses on recognizing teachers who use green practices in the classroom.American University combines a tradition of strong undergraduate and graduate education with a focus on experiential learning, global leadership, and public service.
American University was founded by John Fletcher Hurst, a respected Methodist bishop who dreamed of a creating a university that trained public servants for the future. Chartered by Congress in 1893, AU has always been defined by its groundbreaking spirit. Before women could vote, they attended American University. When Washington, DC was still segregated, 400 African Americans called American University home. As we continue to grow in reputation and stature, we remain grounded in the ideals of our founders as we continue to be a leader for a changing world.
Since being chartered by Congress in 1893, American University has been a leader in higher education in the nation and around the world.A global outlook, practical idealism, a passion for public service: They're part of American University today, and they were in the air in 1893, when AU was chartered by Congress.
George Washington had dreamed of a "national university" in the nation's capital. But it took John Fletcher Hurst to found a university that, in many ways, embodies that dream.The land Bishop Hurst chose for AU was on the rural fringe of the nation's capital, but it was already rich with Washington history. Abraham Lincoln had visited troops at Fort Gaines, which perched on the high ground now held by Ward Circle and the Katzen Arts Center.Presidential footsteps would continue to echo through AU history. In 1902, President Theodore Roosevelt laid the cornerstone of a building, named for Hurst's friend, President William McKinley. When the Methodist-affiliated university opened in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson gave the dedication.
Academic programs continuously gained high national rankings, and the quality of AU's students was reflected in the high number of merit awards and prestigious national scholarships and fellowships, such as Fulbright awards and Presidential Management Fellowships.
The university's growing reputation in the creative arts was underscored with the opening of the 296-seat Harold and Sylvia Greenberg Theatre in 2003 and the Katzen Arts Center in 2005. With 130,000 square feet of space, the Katzen includes a 30,000 square foot art museum with three floors of exhibition space, the Washington area's largest university facility for exhibiting art.
In 2007, Neil Kerwin, SPA/BA '71, became the first alum to become president of AU. A noted scholar of public policy and the regulatory process, he has been part of the life of AU for 40 years, as student, professor, dean, and provost, and guided the university through the process of implementing its strategic plan, "American University and the Next Decade: Leadership for a Changing World," which expresses a conviction that AU's academic strengths are grounded in its core values of social responsibility and a commitment to cultural and intellectual diversity.
It's a vision for the twenty-first century, but it's grounded in ideals that go back to John Fletcher Hurst and the dream of a university that makes a difference in the lives of its students, its community, and the world.
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I absolutely love and highly reccomend AU to all. AU offers great merit scholarships,making a great college education affordable. I have had only positive experiences with professors, and highly reccomend the University College program, in which students have the opportunity to live with their classmates on the same floor and get to know their professor well. D.C. is also a great town,it's hard to get bored here- just keep in mind that the metro closes at 3 AM on weekends. The shuttle between AU and the metro is also super convenient for those who enjoy taking the bus to Georgetown or downtown D.C. I'll be honest, I had reservations about coming here, because it does not have the same great name recognition as other schools. But now that I'm here I love it, the student body is amazing, as are professors and other staff.
By Gracie B. (May, 2013) |
The AU Career Center helped me apply for grants to fund my graduate studies at the London School of Economics. Earlier, it also helped me get an internship at the US Department of State. Both the grant and internship experiences helped me land my dream job as an EU affairs political consultant. AU is expensive, but it also has some great resources available if you're willing to make the effort to take advantage of them.
By Kate L. (May, 2010) |
AU is a great school and in my opinion its underrated. The school's faculty is amazing! I can honestly say I learn something new every time I step foot into one of my classes. The student body is intelligent and eager to get involved in the community. Many students intern on Capitol Hill and are very proactive when it comes to politics.
By J P. (May, 2010) |
Professors at the Economics Department are very friendly and supportive. If you want to work hard, you will be given chances to take harder classes. The entire university system is also flexible and reachable. Class size is small, and most classes are around 15 students especially in the major courses. I had many homework, but learned and improved a lot. I appreciate my experience on campus. It was the best choice to come to AU. I would definitely return to AU and recommend to international students as well. However, the tuition is costly, so I suggest to transfer to the school and take as much as courses before coming here. Internship opportunity is plenty in DC. Many economics professors are experienced professionals as well and bring their experience into classes and it is very exciting.
By Frank O. (Mar, 2007) |
I transferred to AU from a large public University, and find it a breath of fresh air. The students are engaged in what is going on around the globe, nation, and campus. Students are outgoing, friendly, and bright. I find that American is located in the perfect part of DC - it is removed enough that you get a tight-knit community of students (unlike, perhaps, GW,) but close enough to downtown, DuPont, Adams Morgan, or Georgetown that you can always find something to do and a way to participate in DC. Transferring here was the best decision I've ever made.
By Mical. (Jun, 2005) |
American University is a great university in the nations capital. It's a very diverse school. AU provides many internships to its students in the heart of the capital. AU has definitely become quite competitive, and is certainly climbing the ladder every year.A lot of good faculty, and a great career center to help you find tons of internships.
By Jicsa (Jun, 2005) |
American University is the jewel of D.C. I have recently transferred from George Washington University to American University after careful reviewing the overall quality of AU. Honestly, professors are much more helpful here than my previous school. I would give big credit for internships to AU. AU is truly a very unique school, and I agree that their endowment is growing at a very fast and also their annual fund. If you are looking for top notch programs in political science, public affairs, economics, AU is the perfect choice. Recently AU's Biology department has also got a boost after offering new fields. Overall a Great University.
By Biology (Mar, 2005) |
Great place and great people. Come to American if you want to receive a high quality education where you get your moneys worth. Social life here is also brilliant. Essentially you work hard and party hard at American University.
By Batista. (Mar, 2005) |
Professors are easily accessible at AU, and have good knowledge. Recently AU is becoming quite competative, and I believe the education quality is very good here. AU will soon have many changes, with new buildings, new top notch faculty, and ofcourse much more competative students. AU has helped me grow academically and intellectually and I will always admire this fact. I love AU, and I strongly recommend it.
By Julia. (Mar, 2005) |
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The education at this University is truly transformative; the staff are incredibly supportive, guiding students to remarkable achievements and fostering a genuine love for learning.
By Y.T. (Mar, 2024) |