American University - Academics

Quick Stats

College Prowler Take

American University employs many professors of prominence in their fields, with many instructors also working for the government or other organizations while serving as a professor. As a result of many professors being highly involved in DC politics and organizations, students often have access to Washington insider information and experiences. Of particular note are the political science, international relations, and business programs, which all emphasize DC-specific subjects and perspectives. By taking advantage of the resources of the city, the school allows students to combine their educations with real-life experience.

Classes are generally small, with most having about 30 students, and are often discussion-based. Professors are widely regarded as very good (though there are plenty of exceptions), including the many adjunct professors who teach in addition to working in the city. Despite being a small school, AU has a great drawing power for well-known and respected faculty members. Don’t be surprised to see professors being interviewed or called in for their expert opinions on the news. Students find DC to be an exciting and eye-opening city, and the school’s classes reflect that. DC is a fast-paced and politically-charged town, and AU incorporates the best elements of the city into its education.
 

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Students Speak Out

vladimir says: American University 2011 Business

All my professors were good. All... All my professors were good. All are interesting, some are easy, and some are quite tough. And professors in the Honors Program are simply great! Some of them made me completely rethink my life. 12345 Academics: April 21, 2009 Report

AURP says: American University 2012 Education

Teachers are good and very... Teachers are good and very enthusiastic. Overall, they have frequent office hours and are great help. They are really concerned about each student and any problems or questions they may have. 12345 Academics: March 13, 2009 Report

AUKM says: American University 2010 Other

I am doing the Washington Semester... I am doing the Washington Semester Program, and my professor encourages class participation and discussion. However, she is ultra-liberal and does not like it when people do not agree with her. Other than that, AU professors are always there to help out after class and willing to meet with you. 12345 Academics: March 13, 2009 Report

AUPC says: American University 2012 Other

The teachers I've had are very... The teachers I've had are very good. The workload depends on the class. Go to American for the Public Affairs and International Affairs majors. 12345 Academics: March 12, 2009 Report

AUKZ says: American University 2012 Business

Professors are really great, but... Professors are really great, but you should plan out your classes and schedules well ahead of time. Try looking them up and research their profiles on ratemyprofessor.com to make sure you're not getting a bad professor. The School of International Service, Kogod Business School, and the study abroad programs are great. The workload can be very heavy, and professors always assign lots of reading. 12345 Academics: February 25, 2009 Report

Facts

Did You Know?

The most highly-populated school is the College of Arts and Sciences.

AU is a member of the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area, allowing students to enroll in courses offered by other member institutions and students at other member institutions to enroll in courses at AU.

Founded in 1893 by an Act of Congress, AU is one of only two schools in the country to bear the Congressional Seal on its diplomas.

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