American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Our students distinguish themselves for their service, leadership, and ability to rethink global and domestic challenges and opportunities.
At AU passion becomes action; students actively engage in the world around them; and the leaders of today train the leaders of tomorrow.
Nestled in a residential district of Washington, DC, our 90-acre campus gives you the advantages of a traditional college setting combined with unparalleled access to the energy, culture, and opportunities of our nation's capital.
We're an intimate community within an urban city, where the stunning sights of our city are never far from view. Relax with your friends on our beautiful grounds (a designated arboretum) one moment; take an impromptu trip to the National Mall the next.
Whether you're learning in our century-old structures and state-of-the-art facilities, experiencing the arts in our museums and theatres, or venturing out into the city, American University offers endless opportunities.
Building AU
We're dedicated to "Building a Better American." Discover our many facilities projects that support AU's academic aspirations and enhance campus ambiance.
Sustainability
Our focus on energy efficiency and sustainability is reflected across campus, from our new LEED-certified structures to our designated arboretum status.
Community Outreach
See where American University fits within our neighborhood and our city.
Here are some important facts about American University (AU) in Washington, DC:
Founding: John Fletcher Hurst, a Methodist bishop, founded AU in 1893 to train public servants.
Student body: AU's student body is diverse, with students from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and over 100 countries.
Programs: AU offers over 160 programs, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as well as JD, LLM, and SJD programs.
Alumni: AU has over 150,000 alumni.
History: AU's Washington College of Law was the first school of its kind founded by women. Alice Paul, the author of the Equal Rights Amendment, was among the first graduates of WCL.
Sustainability: AU is the nation's first carbon neutral university.
Ownership of WAMU: AU owns National Public Radio's flagship capital affiliate, WAMU, which produces nationally and internationally distributed programming.
Key Rankings
- Princeton Review 2024 (August 2023)
- Best 300+ Colleges: Yes
- Best Mid-Atlantic: Yes
- College City Gets High Marks: 3
- Green Matters: Everyone Cares about Conservation: 11
- Most Active Student Government: 14
- Most Politically Active Students: 16
- Best College Newspaper: 17
