American University
Washington's university, shaping global leaders.
📍 Washington, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #91 in United States · QS World #587 · THE World #601 · ARWU #791
Quick Facts about American University
- Type: Private
- Students: 13,019
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $43,106 – $53,765/year
- Language: English
- Intakes: January, August, May
About American University
Academics
American University features eight academic divisions, including the College of Arts and Sciences, Kogod School of Business, School of Communication, School of International Service, and School of Public Affairs. The university maintains a favorable student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, with 94% of full-time faculty holding the highest degree in their fields. AU offers various interdisciplinary degrees, allowing students to combine courses from multiple schools to create specialized programs. Notable programs often include those in political science, communications, and international relations, capitalizing on the university's location.
International Students
American University is home to over 1,100 international students from 110 countries, contributing to a rich multicultural learning environment. The Office of International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) provides support for international students, assisting with immigration documents, orientation, and adjustment to life in the U.S. English language proficiency can be demonstrated through IELTS (minimum 7.0), TOEFL (minimum 100), PTE (minimum 68), or Duolingo (minimum 120) scores. While financial assistance for international students is primarily merit-based, these awards are competitive and typically do not cover the full cost of attendance.
Campus & Location
Nestled in a residential district of Washington, D.C., AU's 90-acre campus offers a traditional college setting with easy access to the city's vibrant life. The campus is a designated arboretum, providing beautiful green spaces. Transportation to and from the city center is convenient, with AU shuttle services connecting to the Tenleytown-AU Metro station. Students can easily explore nearby attractions such as Embassy Row, Georgetown, the National Mall, and various museums and memorials.
Career Outcomes
American University demonstrates strong career outcomes, with over 92% of recent graduates employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. The university's Career Center, located in the Mary Graydon Center, provides comprehensive services including career counseling, resume assistance, and job search guidance. AU also fosters a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem through the Veloric Center for Entrepreneurship, which offers experiential learning, mentorship, and an incubator program to help students and alumni launch startups. Internship opportunities are abundant, with 90% of undergraduate students and 64% of graduate students participating in internships.
Information for International Students at American University
American University in Washington, United States welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for American University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to American University:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 85
- Duolingo minimum: 120
- GPA minimum: 3
- Application fee: $75
- Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
- Application deadline: January 15
Programs at American University (25 programs)
American University offers 25 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (8)
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $56,000/yr · STEM
The program covers fundamental concepts of computing, algorithms, data structures, and software development, preparing students for careers in technology and further graduate studies.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Web Developer - Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (BA) — 48 months · English · $56,000/yr
Students learn the principles and practices of journalism, including reporting, writing, editing, and multimedia storytelling, preparing them for careers in news organizations and media.
Field: Journalism
Career outcomes: Reporter, Editor, Content Creator - Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSc) — 48 months · English · $56,000/yr
This program provides a strong foundation in business principles, including accounting, finance, marketing, and management, preparing students for diverse roles in the business world.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Marketing Coordinator, Operations Manager - Bachelor of Arts in Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $56,000/yr
Students explore various aspects of communication, including media studies, public relations, journalism, and strategic communication, developing strong analytical and practical skills.
Field: Communication
Career outcomes: Public Relations Specialist, Journalist, Marketing Manager - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $56,000/yr
Students gain a foundational understanding of human behavior, cognition, and emotion, exploring various subfields of psychology and developing critical thinking and research skills.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Counselor, Research Assistant, Human Resources Specialist - Bachelor of Arts in International Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $56,000/yr
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of global affairs, international relations, and cross-cultural dynamics, preparing students for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, and global business.
Field: International Relations
Career outcomes: Diplomat, Policy Analyst, International Development Specialist - Bachelor of Arts in Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English · $56,000/yr
Students examine social structures, cultural dynamics, and human interactions, developing analytical skills to understand societal issues and contribute to social change.
Field: Sociology
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Market Researcher - Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $56,000/yr
Students examine political systems, theories, and behaviors, developing analytical skills for understanding government, public policy, and international relations.
Field: Political Science
Career outcomes: Legislative Aide, Campaign Manager, Policy Researcher
Master Programs (10)
- Master of Arts in Strategic Communication (MA) — 24 months · English · $35,000/yr
This program focuses on developing expertise in public relations, corporate communication, and digital strategy, preparing students for leadership roles in communication fields.
Field: Strategic Communication
Career outcomes: Communications Director, Public Relations Manager, Social Media Strategist - Biology MS (MSc) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program offers advanced study in various biological disciplines, including ecology, genetics, and cell biology, preparing students for research, teaching, or professional careers in life sciences.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Environmental Scientist - Biomedical Engineering MSBE (MSc) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering program integrates engineering principles with medical sciences to develop innovative solutions for healthcare, preparing students for careers in medical device development or research.
Field: Biomedical Engineering
Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Developer, Clinical Engineer - Master of Science in Data Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $37,000/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced training in statistical modeling, machine learning, and big data technologies, equipping students with the skills to extract insights from complex datasets.
Field: Data Science
Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst - Master of Arts in Public Policy (MA) — 24 months · English · $35,000/yr
Students learn to analyze, formulate, and evaluate public policies, gaining skills in quantitative analysis, economic reasoning, and ethical leadership for careers in government, non-profits, and consulting.
Field: Public Policy
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Program Manager, Government Affairs Specialist - Master of Science in Analytics (MSc) — 24 months · English · $37,000/yr · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and data visualization, preparing students to solve complex business problems using data-driven insights.
Field: Analytics
Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Data Analyst, Consultant - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 21 months · English · $45,000/yr
The MBA program develops leadership and management skills, covering core business functions such as finance, marketing, operations, and strategy, with a focus on ethical decision-making.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Marketing Director, Financial Manager - Master of Arts in International Affairs (MA) — 24 months · English · $35,000/yr
This program provides an interdisciplinary approach to global issues, focusing on areas such as international development, security, and human rights, preparing students for global careers.
Field: International Affairs
Career outcomes: Foreign Service Officer, International Development Consultant, NGO Program Manager - Master of Fine Arts in Film and Electronic Media (MFA) — 36 months · English · $36,000/yr
This program offers advanced study in film production, screenwriting, and media theory, fostering creative and technical skills for careers in the film and television industries.
Field: Film and Media
Career outcomes: Filmmaker, Screenwriter, Producer - Master of Science in Finance (MSc) — 18 months · English · $38,000/yr · STEM
The program offers specialized knowledge in financial markets, investment analysis, corporate finance, and risk management, preparing students for careers in the financial industry.
Field: Finance
Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Risk Manager
PhD Programs (7)
- PhD in Justice, Law and Criminology (PhD) — 60 months · English · $38,000/yr
The program offers advanced interdisciplinary study of justice systems, legal processes, and criminological theories, preparing scholars for research and policy roles.
Field: Justice, Law and Criminology
Career outcomes: University Professor, Criminal Justice Researcher, Policy Advisor - Business PhD (Accounting) (PhD) — English · Scholarship available
This PhD program specializes in Accounting, preparing students for academic careers or advanced research roles by focusing on theoretical and empirical aspects of accounting.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Professor of Accounting, Research Accountant, Financial Regulator - Business PhD (Finance) (PhD) — English · Scholarship available
This PhD program specializes in Finance, preparing students for academic careers or advanced research roles by focusing on theoretical and empirical aspects of financial markets and corporate finance.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Professor of Finance, Financial Economist, Quantitative Analyst - Economics PhD (PhD) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
The PhD in Economics offers rigorous training in economic theory and empirical methods, preparing graduates for academic careers, research roles in government, or positions in international organizations.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Professor of Economics, Economist, Policy Analyst - PhD in Political Science (PhD) — 60 months · English · $38,000/yr
This program offers advanced study in political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and American politics, preparing scholars for research and teaching roles.
Field: Political Science
Career outcomes: University Professor, Political Analyst, Researcher - PhD in Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $38,000/yr · STEM
This doctoral program offers rigorous training in economic theory, econometrics, and specialized fields, preparing students for research and teaching positions in academia, government, and international organizations.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist, Research Scientist - PhD in History (PhD) — 60 months · English · $38,000/yr
The program provides rigorous training in historical research, methodology, and historiography, preparing students for academic careers and roles in public history.
Field: History
Career outcomes: University Professor, Archivist, Museum Curator
Scholarships & Tuition at American University
Annual tuition for international students: $43,106 – $53,765/year
✅ American University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of American University
- National Ranking: #91 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #587
- Times Higher Education (THE): #601
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #791
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at American University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Urban
Key Highlights
- Washington D.C. capital integration
- Strong public service focus
- Excellent student-to-faculty ratio
- Diverse international student body
- Traditional campus, city access
- Arboretum campus designation
Accreditation
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Notable Alumni
- Goldie Hawn
- Maury Povich
- Rashida Tlaib
- Steny H. Hoyer
- Terry McAuliffe
Frequently Asked Questions about American University
What is American University?
American University is a private university located in Washington, United States. It has approximately 13,019 students.
How much does it cost to study at American University?
Tuition fees at American University for international students range from $43,106 – $53,765/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for American University?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 85. Duolingo minimum: 120. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $75. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%). Application deadline: January 15.
What language are courses taught in at American University?
Courses at American University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does American University offer?
American University offers 25 programs: 8 Bachelor's, 10 Master's, and 7 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is American University ranked?
#91 in United States · QS World #587 · THE World #601 · ARWU #791.
Does American University offer scholarships?
Yes, American University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does American University provide visa support?
Yes, American University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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