American University is a prestigious educational institution located in the heart of Washington, D.C. Known for its excellence in academics and vibrant campus culture, the university offers a wide range of programs to cater to the diverse interests and career goals of its students.
Programs Offered at American University
American University offers an extensive array of programs across various disciplines. Whether you are interested in the arts, sciences, business, or law, the university has a program that will suit your interests and aspirations.
School of Arts and Sciences
The School of Arts and Sciences at American University provides a strong foundation in liberal arts education. Within this school, students can explore a wide range of programs and majors, allowing them to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals.
For students passionate about literature and language, the English program offers courses in literature analysis, creative writing, and literary theory. Students can delve into the works of renowned authors and develop their own writing skills under the guidance of experienced faculty.
The history program provides a comprehensive understanding of past events and their impact on society. Students can specialize in areas such as American history, European history, or global history, and develop critical thinking and research skills through analyzing primary sources.
Political science is another popular program within the School of Arts and Sciences. Students can study various aspects of politics, including international relations, comparative politics, and political theory. The program prepares students for careers in government, diplomacy, or public policy.
The psychology program offers a deep exploration of human behavior, cognition, and emotions. Students gain a solid understanding of psychological theories and research methods, preparing them for careers in counseling, research, or organizational psychology.
Kogod School of Business
The Kogod School of Business at American University is renowned for its innovative and experiential approach to business education. The school offers programs that equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the dynamic world of business.
The marketing program focuses on consumer behavior, market research, and strategic planning. Students learn how to develop effective marketing campaigns and understand the ever-changing landscape of digital marketing and social media.
Finance is another popular program within the Kogod School of Business. Students learn about investment analysis, financial management, and risk assessment. The program prepares students for careers in banking, corporate finance, or financial planning.
Entrepreneurship is a program that nurtures students’ innovative ideas and helps them develop the skills to launch their own ventures. Students learn about business models, funding strategies, and marketing for startups. The program also provides networking opportunities with successful entrepreneurs.
Students interested in the intersection of business and technology can pursue a degree in business analytics. This program focuses on data analysis, predictive modeling, and data visualization. Graduates are prepared for careers in data-driven decision-making and business intelligence.
School of Public Affairs
The School of Public Affairs at American University is dedicated to preparing future leaders in public service. The programs offered within this school equip students with the knowledge and skills to address complex societal challenges.
The public administration program focuses on the management and leadership skills needed to work in government agencies and nonprofit organizations. Students learn about public policy, budgeting, and program evaluation. The program also emphasizes ethical decision-making and social justice.
International development is a program that examines the economic, social, and political factors influencing global development. Students learn about sustainable development, poverty alleviation, and international cooperation. The program prepares students for careers in international organizations, NGOs, or government agencies.
The public policy program equips students with the tools to analyze and shape public policy. Students learn about policy analysis, advocacy, and implementation. The program emphasizes critical thinking and research skills, preparing students for careers in government, think tanks, or consulting firms.
Students interested in environmental sustainability and policy can pursue a degree in environmental science. This program focuses on understanding the impact of human activities on the environment and finding solutions to environmental challenges. Graduates can work in environmental consulting, policy-making, or research.
School of Communication
The School of Communication at American University offers programs that prepare students for careers in journalism, film and media arts, and strategic communication. The school provides state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty to help students develop their skills and creativity.
The journalism program focuses on news reporting, storytelling, and investigative journalism. Students learn how to gather information, conduct interviews, and write engaging news articles. The program also emphasizes the importance of media ethics and media law.
For students interested in film and media arts, American University offers a comprehensive program that covers various aspects of filmmaking, including screenwriting, directing, and editing. Students have access to professional equipment and can create their own films or documentaries.
Strategic communication is a program that prepares students for careers in public relations, advertising, or corporate communication. Students learn how to develop effective communication strategies, manage brand reputation, and engage with target audiences. The program also offers internships with leading communication agencies.
The School of Communication also offers a program in media production and storytelling, where students learn about multimedia journalism, digital media production, and emerging media technologies. Graduates are equipped with the skills to work in online media platforms, news organizations, or production companies.
Washington College of Law
American University’s Washington College of Law is renowned for its comprehensive legal education and commitment to public interest law. The programs offered within this college prepare students to become ethical and effective legal professionals.
Students pursuing a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree receive a broad legal education and can choose from a wide range of elective courses. The curriculum covers areas such as constitutional law, criminal law, and civil procedure. Students also have the opportunity to participate in legal clinics and gain practical experience.
The law school also offers specialized programs, such as the Health Law and Policy program, where students study the legal and ethical challenges in healthcare. The program prepares students for careers in health law, policy-making, or healthcare administration.
For students interested in international law, the law school offers programs that focus on human rights, international trade law, and global governance. Students can participate in moot court competitions and internships with international organizations.
The law school also offers joint degree programs, allowing students to earn a J.D. degree along with a master’s degree in fields such as international affairs, business administration, or public administration. These programs provide a comprehensive education and open doors to diverse career opportunities.
Financial Aid Opportunities
American University understands the importance of making education affordable and accessible to all students. The university offers a variety of financial aid options to help students finance their education.
Merit-Based Scholarships
American University offers merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. These scholarships are highly competitive and are awarded based on factors such as GPA, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement.
The Presidential Scholarship is the most prestigious merit-based scholarship offered by American University. It covers full tuition, fees, and provides an additional stipend for educational expenses. Recipients of this scholarship demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service.
American University also offers Dean’s Scholarships and University Scholarships, which provide partial tuition coverage. These scholarships recognize students who have demonstrated academic excellence and involvement in extracurricular activities.
Need-Based Financial Aid
American University is committed to providing need-based financial aid to students who require assistance to meet the cost of tuition. The university considers factors such as family income, assets, and the number of dependents when determining financial aid eligibility.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is used to determine a student’s eligibility for need-based financial aid. By submitting the FAFSA, students may qualify for grants, work-study programs, or low-interest loans.
American University also offers institutional grants and scholarships to supplement federal aid. These grants are awarded based on financial need and can significantly reduce the financial burden of attending the university.
Work-Study Programs
American University provides work-study programs that allow students to earn money while gaining valuable work experience on campus. These programs offer part-time employment opportunities in various departments and offices within the university.
Work-study positions can range from administrative tasks to research assistance, providing students with practical skills and insights into their chosen field of study. The earnings from work-study programs can be used to contribute to education expenses or personal expenses.
Participating in a work-study program not only helps students financially but also allows them to develop professional skills, build their network, and enhance their resume. Work-study positions are highly sought after, and students are encouraged to apply early.
Campus Culture
American University prides itself on its vibrant and inclusive campus culture. With a diverse student body from all 50 states and over 140 countries, students have the opportunity to engage with individuals from different backgrounds and perspectives.
Student Organizations and Clubs
American University offers a wide range of student organizations and clubs catering to various interests. Joining a student organization or club is a great way for students to get involved, pursue their passions, and connect with like-minded individuals.
For students interestedin community service and social activism, organizations like the Community Service Coalition and Amnesty International provide opportunities to make a positive impact in the local community and beyond. These organizations organize volunteer projects, awareness campaigns, and advocacy events.
If politics and governance are your interests, you can join organizations like the College Democrats or College Republicans. These groups engage in political discussions, host guest speakers, and organize events related to local, national, and international politics.
For those passionate about the arts, American University offers a variety of student organizations focused on music, theater, dance, and visual arts. Whether you want to join an a cappella group, participate in theater productions, or exhibit your artwork, there are opportunities to showcase your talents and collaborate with fellow artists.
Sports enthusiasts can get involved in intramural sports leagues or join sports clubs such as soccer, basketball, or tennis. These clubs provide a platform for friendly competition, skill development, and camaraderie among fellow athletes.
Students interested in cultural exchange and international understanding can join organizations like the International Student Association or Model United Nations. These groups celebrate diversity, organize cultural events, and participate in simulations of United Nations conferences.
Additionally, American University hosts a variety of cultural events, guest speakers, and performances throughout the year. The Kennedy Political Union brings influential speakers from various fields to campus, providing opportunities for students to engage in thought-provoking discussions and gain insights from industry leaders.
The university’s Performing Arts Series showcases renowned performers in music, dance, and theater, allowing students to experience world-class performances without leaving campus. These events contribute to the vibrant arts scene at American University and provide students with opportunities to appreciate and engage with different art forms.
American University is also home to a variety of student-led publications and media outlets. The student newspaper, The Eagle, covers campus news, events, and student perspectives. Radio stations like WVAU provide a platform for students to host their own shows and share their favorite music and discussions.
Conclusion
American University offers a diverse range of programs, a vibrant campus culture, and numerous financial aid opportunities. Whether you are interested in pursuing a career in the arts, business, law, or public service, American University provides the resources and support needed to succeed. With its prime location in Washington, D.C., students have access to unparalleled internship and networking opportunities. Consider American University for your higher education journey and unlock your full potential.
