Where is American University located?

American University is located in Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital and one of the most powerful laboratories for learning in the world.

What is American University known for?

We are famous for our passion for public service, political activism and our advantageous location in a noted center of politics, culture, and media. Our graduates are distinguished by their dedication to bettering the world through compassionate and thoughtful leadership.

How many faculty members does American University employ?

In the 2011-12 school year, American University employed 798 full-time faculty. Of those, 94 percent hold the highest degree in their field. In addition, American programs feature adjunct faculty, alumni and guest speakers who are prominent experts, industry leaders and political office holders.

What is the student-faculty ratio? How about class size?

The student-faculty ratio is 12:1. The average class size is 22 for undergraduate classes and 17 for graduate courses.

What is your average enrollment?

In 2012, enrollment was:
  • Undergraduate: 6,776
  • Graduate: 3,464
  • Law: 1,766
  • Nondegree, certificate, Washington Semester, American University Abroad: 1,159

Is the student population at American University diverse?

Yes, we have students from more than 130 countries and all 50 states. Sixty-nine percent of our physical and natural science majors are women and 1,904 students major in international studies – the largest in U.S. undergraduate programs.

Is American University public or private?

American University is a private doctoral institution.

How are the online programs different from the on-campus programs?

American University’s online courses are taught by the same accomplished faculty members and prestigious guest lecturers who teach on campus, and are just as rigorous and challenging as their on-campus counterparts. The main difference is the online format, which allows you greater convenience as to when and where you learn.

What are the technology requirements?

Technological Requirements

In this program, students will use the following systems and tools:

  • Engage Learning Management System: Participants will use their Engage credentials to log in at https://engage.american.edu.
  • Hardware
    • Any computer that is capable of running a modern Operating System (OS). For example: Windows 7, Mac OS/X, Linux
    • More memory (RAM) will allow for more applications, such as your online course and Microsoft Word, to be open and will speed up your computer in general.
    • A High Speed/Broadband internet connection.
    • You may also wish to purchase a microphone, either standalone or with a set of headphones. These would be for the times that you may need to do Voice-Over-IP chats or Voice-Over-PowerPoint presentations.
  • Web Browser Requirements: While the following web browsers are supported and tested, this course is optimized for use in Chrome.
  • Cookies Must Be Enabled on Your Browser
    A cookie is a small file that is placed on your computer by the server. Cookies are a very common Internet technology used by many websites, such as Amazon or eBay. Your browser has a setting that allows you to control whether you allow cookies or not.
  • In addition to the requirements listed above, you will need to download Adobe Reader, or another program that can read .pdf files. You may also need additional free-ware depending on the links in the course, such as Adobe Connect, Media Space or Google Hangout.

How do I learn more?

Simple. Just call us toll-free at 855-725-7614 to speak with one of our knowledgeable Admissions Advisers. Or you can request more information and we'll contact you.