Overview of American University
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, American University (AU) is a private research university located in Washington, D.C. Please note that there may have been changes or developments since then.
American University: A Hub of Learning in the Nation’s Capital
American University, often referred to as AU, is a prestigious institution known for its strong commitment to academic excellence, public service, and global engagement. Established in 1893, AU has grown to become a prominent research university with a diverse and vibrant student body. Situated in the heart of the nation’s capital, AU provides a unique setting that allows students to engage with real-world issues, immerse themselves in various cultures, and take advantage of numerous professional opportunities.
Academic Programs:
AU offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across its schools and colleges. These include the School of International Service, the School of Public Affairs, the Kogod School of Business, the School of Communication, the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Professional and Extended Studies, and the Washington College of Law.
The School of International Service is particularly renowned for its focus on global affairs and international relations. Students in this school often engage in research and practical experiences that address pressing global challenges. The School of Public Affairs is dedicated to preparing students for careers in public service, policy analysis, and government. The Kogod School of Business offers programs in business administration, accounting, and other related fields.
Global Engagement:
Given its location in Washington, D.C., AU places a strong emphasis on global engagement. Students have unique opportunities to intern, conduct research, and network with professionals in various fields, including politics, international relations, business, and media. AU’s commitment to fostering a global perspective is evident in its study abroad programs, international partnerships, and diverse student body.
Research and Innovation:
American University is recognized for its contributions to research and innovation. Faculty members and students are involved in a wide range of research projects that address critical issues across disciplines. The university’s commitment to advancing knowledge and making a positive impact on society is reflected in its research centers and institutes, covering areas such as environmental sustainability, human rights, and data science.
Public Service and Social Justice:
AU’s commitment to public service and social justice is ingrained in its mission. The university encourages students to actively engage with the community through service-learning opportunities, internships, and volunteer work. The School of Public Affairs, in particular, emphasizes the importance of addressing societal challenges through policy analysis and advocacy.
Campus Life:
The AU campus provides a vibrant and inclusive environment for students. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, research labs, and recreational spaces. The Bender Arena serves as a hub for athletic and cultural events, and the Katzen Arts Center showcases a wide range of artistic expressions.
Political and Cultural Capital:
Being located in the nation’s capital, AU offers students unparalleled access to political and cultural events. Students have the opportunity to attend lectures, conferences, and policy discussions featuring prominent figures from various fields. The proximity to government agencies, non-profit organizations, and international institutions provides students with a unique advantage for internships and networking opportunities.
Conclusion:
American University stands as a dynamic institution that blends academic excellence with a commitment to global engagement, public service, and social justice. Its location in Washington, D.C., its diverse and passionate student body, and its strong emphasis on research contribute to an enriching educational experience. AU’s graduates are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions to society, whether in government, business, the nonprofit sector, or other fields, reflecting the university’s dedication to preparing students for leadership roles in an ever-changing world.
4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW Washington, DC 20016
Phone: (202) 885-6000
Email: admissions@american.edu
Web site: http://www.american.edu
Rankings: American University
Located in Washington, DC, American University is one of the best universities in the Washington DC. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for American University in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is American University.
American universities are ranked according to a variety of criteria, such as size, endowment, student population, faculty size and quality, selectivity, retention and graduation rates, financial resources, research activity and productivity. The most widely-used ranking system is the US News & World Report college rankings. It assesses universities on a number of measures including academic reputation among peers and counselors; faculty resources; student selectivity; financial resources; graduation rate performance; alumni giving rate; and overall excellence. Other ranking systems include the Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings which evaluate universities based on 15 different metrics including engagement with students and faculty members, campus diversity, resources for learning outcomes and career success. The Washington Monthly College Rankings also assess universities based on their contribution to the public good in three categories: social mobility (recruiting and graduating low-income students), research (producing cutting-edge scholarship) and service (encouraging students to give something back to their country). Each system has its own strengths and weaknesses but all provide useful insight into the quality of American higher education.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Overall Ranking: | 84 |
| Score: | 43 |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 2.9 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 76 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 87.5% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 76.0% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | 74% |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | 2 |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 95 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): | 49.0% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 2.2% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | 14:1 |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 77.6% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 63 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 1150-1370 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 46% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 79% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 52.9% |
| Financial resources rank: | 102 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 113 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | 12.9% |
Essential Facts: American University
- American University is considered to be highly diverse across all factors, and is ranked #121 nationwide. Ranked High in Racial Diversity.
- American University has a total undergraduate enrollment of 8,287, with a gender distribution of 38 percent male students and 62 percent female students. Student Gender Distribution.
- Students at American University are mainly White with a smaller Hispanic population. 42% percent of students are minorities or students of color. Find the college that’s right for you.
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | 64% |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | 14% |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | 16% |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | N/A |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | No |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | N/A |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | No |
| Additional policies and regulations: | class attendance policies set by individual instructors, hazing prohibited, other |
| Collegiate athletic association: | NCAA I |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | basketball, cross country, soccer, swimming, track and field (outdoor), wrestling |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | basketball, cross country, field hockey, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, track and field (outdoor), volleyball |
| Student activities: | choral groups, dance, drama/theater, jazz band, literary magazine, music ensembles, musical theater, opera, pep band, radio station, student government, student newspaper, student film society, symphony orchestra, television station, yearbook |