American University
Washington, District of Columbia
About American University
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
With a long-standing history, American University is a university serving students in Washington, District of Columbia. With a tradition of academic excellence, American University prepares graduates for success in Social Sciences, Business, Interdisciplinary Studies, and more.
A Diverse Community in Washington
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
American University is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $21,176, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-blind policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
American University emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for American University students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 75% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 68% |
| First-year retention rate | 86% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $70,443 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $77,370 |
| Median debt at graduation | $22,750 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at American University
| Total enrollment | 12,321 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 7,476 |
| Graduate students | 4,845 |
| International students | 5% |
| First-generation students | 16% |
What you can study at American University
87 programs, most of them in these fields:
Visual and Performing Arts (15)
Art History, Criticism and Conservation, Cinematography and Film/Video Production, Community/Environmental/Socially-Engaged Art, and more
Area Ethnic Cultural Gender Group Studies (9)
African-American/Black Studies, American/United States Studies/Civilization, Asian Studies/Civilization, and more
Social Sciences (8)
Anthropology, General, Economics, General, International Relations and Affairs, and more
Foreign Languages (7)
Arabic Language and Literature, French Language and Literature, French Studies, and more
Mathematics and Statistics (6)
Applied Mathematics, General, Econometrics and Quantitative Economics, Financial Mathematics, and more
Business Management Marketing Support (5)
Accounting, Business Administration and Management, General, Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other, and more
Computer Information Sciences (5)
Computational Science, Computer and Information Sciences, General, Computer Science, and more
Education (5)
Early Childhood Education and Teaching, Elementary Education and Teaching, Secondary Education and Teaching, and more
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