| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded: 1893
Location: Washington, D.C., USA
Type: Private, Research University
Motto: "Pro Deo et Patria" (For God and Country)
Student Population: ~14,000 (Undergraduate & Graduate)
Global Ranking: Among the top universities for political science, public affairs, and law
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
American University has 8 schools and colleges, offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs:
1 School of International Service (SIS) – One of the top international relations schools in the world.
2 Kogod School of Business – Strong programs in finance, marketing, and business analytics.
3 School of Public Affairs (SPA) – Highly ranked in public policy, law, and government studies.
4 Washington College of Law (WCL) – Recognized for human rights and international law programs.
5 College of Arts & Sciences – Offers programs in liberal arts, sciences, and humanities.
6 School of Communication – Known for journalism, media, and film studies.
7 School of Education – Specializes in education policy and leadership.
8 School of Professional & Extended Studies – Provides flexible and online learning options.
International Relations & Political Science
Public Policy & Administration
Law & Human Rights
Business & Economics
Journalism & Media Studies
Cybersecurity & Data Science
Environmental Science & Sustainability
GPA: Recommended 3.5+ (on a 4.0 scale)
SAT/ACT: Optional (test-optional policy)
English Proficiency (International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 85+
IELTS: 6.5+
Essays & Letters of Recommendation required
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
GRE/GMAT (if required by program)
Resume, Statement of Purpose (SOP), and Letters of Recommendation
TOEFL/IELTS for non-native English speakers
Acceptance Rate: ~39% (Moderately Competitive)
Tuition Fees:
Merit-Based Scholarships – Available for high-achieving students.
Need-Based Financial Aid – For U.S. and international students.
Graduate Assistantships – Funding opportunities for research and teaching.
External Scholarships – Fulbright, DAAD, and other international scholarships.
Location: AU's campus is in Northwest Washington, D.C., just minutes from Capitol Hill.
Internship Opportunities: Students intern at the White House, U.S. Congress, World Bank, and top media outlets.
Student Organizations: Over 200+ student clubs, including debate teams, cultural groups, and media organizations.
Events & Networking: Frequent guest lectures by diplomats, policymakers, and business leaders.
Internship Focused – 90%+ of students complete internships.
Top Employers: U.S. government agencies, NGOs, Fortune 500 companies, law firms, and media organizations.
Average Starting Salary: ~$60,000 per year for AU graduates.
American University offers over 60 undergraduate majors through its various schools.
International Relations & Political Science
Business Administration (Finance, Marketing, Analytics, etc.)
Public Policy & Administration
Journalism & Digital Communication
Cybersecurity & Computer Science
Environmental Science & Sustainability
Economics & Data Analytics
Law & Justice Studies
AU offers 100+ master’s degree programs designed for career advancement in fields such as public affairs, business, communication, and law.
Master of International Relations (MIR)
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Journalism & Media Studies
Master of Environmental Policy & Sustainability
Master of Cybersecurity, Data Science & AI
Master of Finance & Accounting
Master of Human Rights & Global Affairs
American University offers PhD and professional degree programs for students interested in research and high-level expertise in public policy, law, business, and international affairs.
PhD in Public Administration & Policy
PhD in Political Science & International Relations
PhD in Economics
Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) – Washington College of Law
Doctor of Education (EdD) – Educational Leadership
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in International Studies |
4 years |
~$54,000 |
|
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science |
4 years |
~$54,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration |
4 years |
~$54,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Finance |
4 years |
~$54,000 |
|
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Communication, Journalism & Media |
4 years |
~$54,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Data Science |
4 years |
~$54,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity |
4 years |
~$54,000 |
|
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology |
4 years |
~$54,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Environmental Science |
4 years |
~$54,000 |
|
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics |
4 years |
~$54,000 |
|
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Legal Studies |
4 years |
~$54,000 |
|
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sociology |
4 years |
~$54,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Public Health |
4 years |
~$54,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Arts (MA) in International Relations |
2 years |
~$34,596 |
|
Master of Public Administration (MPA) |
2 years |
~$34,596 |
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
2 years |
~$48,624 |
|
Master of Science (MS) in Finance |
1-2 years |
~$34,596 |
|
Master of Science (MS) in Data Science |
1-2 years |
~$34,596 |
|
Master of Science (MS) in Cybersecurity |
1-2 years |
~$34,596 |
|
Master of Science (MS) in Analytics |
1-2 years |
~$34,596 |
|
Master of Science (MS) in Public Health |
2 years |
~$34,596 |
|
Master of Arts (MA) in Communication Studies |
2 years |
~$34,596 |
|
Master of Science (MS) in Environmental Science |
2 years |
~$34,596 |
|
Master of Science (MS) in International Development |
2 years |
~$34,596 |
|
Master of Science (MS) in Justice, Law & Criminology |
2 years |
~$34,596 |
|
Master of Arts (MA) in Political Science |
2 years |
~$34,596 |
|
Master of Arts (MA) in Sociology Research |
2 years |
~$34,596 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Political Science |
4-6 years |
~$35,424 |
|
PhD in Public Administration & Policy |
4-6 years |
~$35,424 |
|
PhD in Economics |
4-6 years |
~$35,424 |
|
PhD in Communication |
4-6 years |
~$35,424 |
|
PhD in International Relations |
4-6 years |
~$35,424 |
|
PhD in Justice, Law & Criminology |
4-6 years |
~$35,424 |
|
PhD in Environmental Science |
4-6 years |
~$35,424 |
|
PhD in Anthropology |
4-6 years |
~$35,424 |
|
PhD in History |
4-6 years |
~$35,424 |
|
PhD in Sociology |
4-6 years |
~$35,424 |
|
PhD in Education Policy & Leadership |
4-6 years |
~$35,424 |
|
Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) – Law |
3-5 years |
~$55,000 |
Top-Ranked Programs – Especially in International Relations, Business, Public Policy, and Law.
Global Campus – 12%+ of students are from outside the U.S.
Washington, D.C. Location – Access to internships, government agencies, embassies, and NGOs.
Flexible Programs – Offers online, part-time, and hybrid learning options.
Scholarships for International Students – Available based on merit and need.
Internship & Job Opportunities – 90%+ of students do at least one internship before graduating.
International students can apply for undergraduate, graduate, and PhD programs in fields like:
International Relations & Political Science
Business & Economics
Public Administration & Policy
Computer Science & Cybersecurity
Environmental Science & Sustainability
Journalism & Communication
Law & Justice Studies
Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
High School Diploma (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA: Recommended 3.5+ (on a 4.0 scale).
Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT (Optional, but recommended).
English Proficiency (if English is not your first language):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 85-100
IELTS: Minimum 6.5-7.0
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum 115+
Personal Statement & Essays (As part of the Common Application).
Letters of Recommendation (2-3).
Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent) from an accredited university.
Minimum GPA: 3.0+ (varies by program).
Standardized Tests (if required by program):
GRE/GMAT (Some programs may waive this requirement).
English Proficiency (for non-native English speakers):
TOEFL iBT: 90-100
IELTS: 7.0+
Resume/CV, Statement of Purpose (SOP), and Letters of Recommendation.
Relevant work experience (for MBA & professional programs).
1 Choose a Program & Check Requirements
AU offers 60+ undergraduate majors in business, international relations, communication, science, and law.
Check specific admission criteria for your chosen program.
2 Submit an Online Application
AU uses the Common Application.
Application deadlines:
Early Decision I: November 15
Early Decision II: January 15
Regular Decision: January 15
3 Submit Required Documents
High School Transcripts (Official, translated if necessary).
GPA Requirement: Recommended 3.5+ (on a 4.0 scale).
Standardized Tests:
SAT/ACT (Optional, but recommended for competitive programs).
English Proficiency (for non-native speakers):
TOEFL iBT: 85-100
IELTS: 6.5-7.0
Duolingo English Test (DET): 115+
Personal Statement (Essay) explaining why you want to study at AU.
Letters of Recommendation (2-3) from teachers/counselors.
Financial Certification Form (for international students applying for an F-1 visa).
4 Attend an Interview (If Required)
Some programs may request an online/video interview.
5 Receive Admission Decision
AU notifies applicants via email by March-April for Fall admission.
If accepted, students must confirm their spot by May 1.
1 Choose a Program & Check Requirements
AU offers 100+ master’s programs in business, public administration, international relations, law, and science.
Check specific GPA and test score requirements for your program.
2 Submit an Online Application
Apply via the AU Graduate Portal (www.american.edu/admissions).
Application deadlines vary by program:
Fall (August start): Priority deadline January - March
Spring (January start): Deadline September - October
3 Submit Required Documents
Bachelor’s Degree Transcript (from an accredited institution).
GPA Requirement: Minimum 3.0+ (on a 4.0 scale).
Standardized Tests (if required by program):
GRE/GMAT (Some programs waive this requirement).
English Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL iBT: 90-100
IELTS: 7.0+
Resume/CV (especially for MBA, MPA, and research-based programs).
Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining academic and career goals.
Letters of Recommendation (2-3) from professors or employers.
4 Attend an Interview (If Required)
Some programs (e.g., MBA) may require a virtual or in-person interview.
5 Receive Admission Decision & Pay Deposit
AU informs applicants within 4-8 weeks after application submission.
Accepted students must pay a non-refundable deposit to secure admission.
1 Choose a Research Area & Find a Supervisor
AU offers PhD programs in political science, public administration, business, and social sciences.
Some PhD programs require students to connect with a faculty mentor before applying.
2 Submit an Online Application
Applications are submitted through the AU Graduate Portal.
Most PhD programs have a Fall (August) intake, with deadlines in December - January.
3 Submit Required Documents
Master’s Degree (or Bachelor’s for direct PhD entry).
GPA Requirement: 3.5+ (recommended).
GRE Scores: Required for some PhD programs.
TOEFL iBT/IELTS (for non-native English speakers).
Research Proposal outlining intended study area.
Resume/CV with research/work experience.
Letters of Recommendation (3+).
4 Attend an Interview (If Required)
Shortlisted PhD applicants may need to complete a virtual or in-person interview with faculty.
5 Receive Admission Decision & Apply for Funding
PhD students may receive full funding, including tuition waivers & research stipends.
If accepted, students must submit a financial certification form (for visa processing).
Fall Intake (Main Entry Term) – Application deadline: January 15 (Regular Decision)
Early Decision I & II (Binding Admission): Deadlines: November 15 & January 15
Spring Intake (Limited Programs Available): Application deadline: October 1
Fall Intake (August Start): Application deadlines vary by program, usually between January - March (priority deadlines).
Spring Intake (January Start): Application deadlines are typically between September - October.
Summer Intake (Limited Programs): Application deadline: March 1.
Most PhD programs accept applications only for Fall intake (August start).
Deadlines are usually between December - January for competitive funding and scholarships.
High School Diploma (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA Requirement: Recommended 3.5+ on a 4.0 scale.
Standardized Test Scores:
SAT/ACT (Optional, but recommended for competitive programs).
English Language Proficiency (for non-native speakers):
TOEFL iBT: 85-100
IELTS: 6.5-7.0
Duolingo English Test (DET): 115+
Letters of Recommendation (2-3) from teachers or counselors.
Personal Statement (Essay) explaining academic and career goals.
Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent) from an accredited university.
Minimum GPA Requirement: Usually 3.0+ on a 4.0 scale (Varies by program).
Standardized Test Scores (if required by program):
GRE/GMAT (Some programs waive this requirement).
English Language Proficiency (for non-native speakers):
TOEFL iBT: 90-100
IELTS: 7.0+
Resume/CV, Statement of Purpose (SOP), and Letters of Recommendation (2-3).
Relevant Work Experience (For MBA & Professional Programs).
Master’s Degree (or Bachelor’s for direct PhD entry).
Minimum GPA Requirement: 3.5+ (recommended).
GRE Scores: Required for some PhD programs.
TOEFL iBT/IELTS (for non-native English speakers).
Research Proposal outlining intended study area.
Resume/CV with research/work experience.
Letters of Recommendation (3+).
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Applicable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
|
AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (EGLS) |
Outstanding international students with leadership skills & financial need |
Covers full tuition + room & board |
Undergraduate |
|
AU Merit Scholarships (Undergraduate) |
High academic achievement (GPA 3.5+), strong leadership |
$10,000 - $25,000 per year |
Undergraduate |
|
AU Presidential Scholarship |
Exceptional academic performance & extracurricular activities |
$15,000 - $30,000 per year |
Undergraduate |
|
AU Graduate Assistantships (GA) |
Based on academic merit; provides tuition waivers & stipends |
Partial or full tuition + stipend |
Master’s & PhD |
|
AU Dean’s Graduate Scholarship |
High-achieving graduate students in specific fields |
$5,000 - $20,000 per year |
Master’s & PhD |
|
Washington College of Law (WCL) Scholarships |
Merit-based awards for law students |
$5,000 - $30,000 per year |
Law (JD, LLM, SJD) |
|
PhD Fellowships & Research Grants |
Full funding for PhD students with research potential |
Full tuition + stipend |
PhD Programs |
|
Kogod School of Business Scholarships |
For MBA and MS Business students with strong academic backgrounds |
$10,000 - $30,000 per year |
MBA, MS in Business |
|
External Scholarships (e.g., Fulbright, DAAD, Chevening, etc.) |
Funded by external organizations for international students |
(Full or partial tuition) |
All Programs |
Facility/Accommodation |
Details |
Estimated Cost (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Washington, D.C. (Tenleytown neighborhood) |
N/A |
|
Libraries & Study Spaces |
Bender Library, Research Labs, Study Lounges |
Free for students |
|
Student Center & Gym |
Fitness Center, Swimming Pool, Wellness Programs |
Free or minimal fee |
|
Dining Options |
On-campus dining halls, cafés, and nearby restaurants |
~$4,000 - $6,000 |
|
Public Transport Access |
Metro (Tenleytown-AU Station), Bus Service, AU Shuttle |
~$105 (Monthly Metro Pass) |
|
On-Campus Housing (Shared Room) |
Traditional dorms (doubles/triples) with shared bathrooms |
~$11,000 - $14,000 |
|
On-Campus Housing (Single Room) |
Apartment-style housing with private rooms |
~$15,000 - $17,000 |
|
Off-Campus Housing (Shared Apartment) |
Private apartments near campus (split with roommates) |
~$12,000 - $18,000 |
|
Off-Campus Housing (Studio Apartment) |
Private, self-contained apartment |
~$18,000 - $24,000 |
Campus Atmosphere & Community
AU fosters a diverse and inclusive community, with students from 120+ countries. The campus is known for its strong focus on public service, global affairs, and social activism. AU students are encouraged to engage in leadership roles, volunteer work, and advocacy initiatives.
The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, high-tech labs, libraries, fitness centers, and student lounges, making it a comfortable and productive environment for learning and networking.
Academics & Research Opportunities
AU emphasizes hands-on learning, with students engaging in internships, research projects, and study-abroad programs. Some academic highlights include:
Internships at government agencies, embassies, and NGOs in Washington, D.C.
Research opportunities in international relations, cybersecurity, business, and social sciences.
Study abroad programs in 145+ countries for global exposure.
Small class sizes (student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1) allowing personalized learning experiences.
Student Organizations & Extracurricular Activities
AU has 200+ student organizations, catering to different interests, including:
Political & Advocacy Groups – Model United Nations, College Democrats & Republicans.
Cultural & Diversity Clubs – Latinx & Black Student Union, International Student Association.
Academic & Professional Societies – Business, Law, Journalism, and Science Clubs.
Performing Arts & Media – AU Theatre, Student Radio, The Eagle (campus newspaper).
Community Service Organizations – Engage in volunteering, sustainability projects, and outreach programs.
Sports & Fitness
AU competes in NCAA Division I sports, and students can participate in:
Varsity Sports – Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, Wrestling.
Club & Intramural Sports – Tennis, Swimming, Ultimate Frisbee, Running Club.
Fitness & Wellness – On-campus gyms, yoga, meditation, and wellness programs.
Living in Washington, D.C.
AU’s location in the nation’s capital provides students with access to internships, museums, government institutions, and cultural events. Popular spots include:
The White House & Capitol Hill – Ideal for students interested in politics and policy.
Smithsonian Museums & National Mall – Free cultural and educational experiences.
Concerts, Restaurants, and Theaters – A mix of international cuisines and entertainment options.
Parks & Outdoor Activities – Rock Creek Park and Georgetown Waterfront for recreation.
Career & Work Opportunities
AU students benefit from Washington, D.C.'s vast professional network, with 90%+ of students completing at least one internship before graduation. Key career resources include:
The AU Career Center – Resume workshops, career fairs, and networking events.
Internships at top organizations – U.S. Congress, World Bank, IMF, Google, and international NGOs.
On-Campus Jobs – Work-study programs available for students.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) & Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Allows international students to gain work experience in the U.S.
Events & Social Life
AU hosts numerous events throughout the year, such as:
Welcome Week & International Student Orientation – Helps new students adjust to campus life.
Cultural Festivals – Celebrating diversity through food, music, and performances.
Annual Founder’s Day Ball – One of the most anticipated social events.
Career & Internship Fairs – Connecting students with top employers.
Why AU Graduates Have High Employability?
Internship-Focused Education – 90%+ of students complete at least one internship before graduation.
Strategic Location – Access to U.S. government, embassies, think tanks, and Fortune 500 companies.
Strong Industry Connections – Partnerships with World Bank, IMF, United Nations, Google, Deloitte, CNN, and more.
High Alumni Success Rate – 91% of AU graduates are employed, in graduate school, or engaged in service work within six months of graduation.
AU Career Center Support – Resume building, networking events, and on-campus recruitment.
Employment & Placement Statistics by Program
1 Business & Economics (Kogod School of Business)
Placement Rate: ~94% within six months of graduation.
Top Employers: Goldman Sachs, Deloitte, PwC, JPMorgan Chase, Amazon, EY, U.S. Federal Reserve.
Average Starting Salary: $65,000 - $90,000 per year.
2 International Relations & Political Science (School of International Service - SIS)
Placement Rate: ~90% within six months.
Top Employers: U.S. State Department, World Bank, United Nations, NGOs, embassies, international organizations.
Average Starting Salary: $55,000 - $80,000 per year.
3 Law & Public Policy (School of Public Affairs - SPA & Washington College of Law - WCL)
Placement Rate: ~92% in legal/government roles.
Top Employers: U.S. Congress, U.S. Supreme Court, FBI, Department of Justice, private law firms.
Average Starting Salary: $70,000 - $120,000 per year.
4 Communication & Journalism (School of Communication - SOC)
Placement Rate: ~88% within six months.
Top Employers: CNN, The Washington Post, NPR, NBC, Google, Twitter, major media firms.
Average Starting Salary: $50,000 - $75,000 per year.
5 STEM & Cybersecurity
Placement Rate: ~95% in tech companies and government agencies.
Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, U.S. Department of Defense, National Security Agency (NSA).
Average Starting Salary: $80,000 - $120,000 per year.
Internship & Work Opportunities
AU places a strong emphasis on internships, and students gain real-world experience through:
Internships at the White House, Congress, World Bank, IMF, and Fortune 500 companies.
Research assistantships & fellowships for graduate & PhD students.
Study + work opportunities through Optional Practical Training (OPT) & Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for international students.
Career Support Services at AU
AU offers a dedicated Career Center that helps students with:
Resume & Cover Letter Reviews.
Mock Interviews & Job Search Assistance.
On-Campus Recruitment & Career Fairs (Top employers visit AU to hire students).
Networking Events with Alumni & Industry Leaders.
American University (AU) is moderately competitive, with an overall acceptance rate of around 39%. However, acceptance rates vary by program and degree level.
Program |
Estimated Acceptance Rate |
Competitiveness |
|---|---|---|
|
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Programs) |
~39% |
Moderately Competitive |
|
Graduate (Master’s Programs) |
~35-50% |
Varies by Program |
|
PhD/Doctoral Programs |
~20-30% |
Highly Competitive |
|
Washington College of Law (JD, LLM, SJD) |
~35% |
Highly Competitive |
Strong Academic Record (GPA 3.5+ recommended for undergraduates, 3.0+ for graduates).
Test Scores (SAT/ACT optional but recommended for competitive applicants).
Extracurricular Activities, Leadership, and Work Experience.
Well-Written Personal Statement and Strong Letters of Recommendation.
American University
4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW,
Washington, D.C. 20016,
United States
