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American University - Academics - College ProwlerCollege Prowler4.24

Academics

A-
Where does this grade come from?View all Academics rankingsReview this school to add your opinion

Comparable Schools' Academics Grades:

Quick Stats

Student-Faculty Ratio 13:1
Full-Time Student Population 9,447
Part-Time Student Population 2,794
Full-Time Instructional Faculty 637
Part-Time Instructional Faculty 549
Total FT Faculty 646
Faculty with Terminal Degree 95%
Average Faculty Salary $92,404
Full-Time Retention Rate 90%
Part-Time Retention Rate 25%
Graduation Rate 76%
Programs/Majors Offered 90
Average Course Load 12–17 credits
Academic/Career Counseling? Yes
Remedial Services? No
Class Sizes
  • 20 to 49 students: 49%
  • 50 or more students: 2%
  • Fewer than 20 students: 49%

Student Author OverviewWhat's This?

American University employs many professors of prominence in its fields, with many instructors working for the government or other organizations in addition to serving as professors. As a result of many professors being highly involved in D.C. politics and organizations, students often have access to Washington insider information and experiences. Particularly noteworthy are the political science, international relations, public affairs, and business programs, which all emphasize D.C.-specific subjects and perspectives. By taking advantage of the resources of the city, the school allows students to combine its education with real-life experience. Most undergraduates experience at least one internship while attending AU.

Classes are usually small, with most having about 30 students, and are often discussion-based. While there are some exceptions, professors are generally very good, 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 D.C. to be an exciting and eye-opening city, and the school’s classes reflect that. D.C. is a fast-paced and politically-charged town, and AU incorporates the best elements of the city into its education.

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American Student ReviewsWhat's This?

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Academics at American University

AUEagle1776

'15

Political Science and Government

4.6
A

Political Science/International Relations Track

There is no doubt that you're getting what you paid for at AU as far as education goes. The classes are hard, but manageable and you WILL learn. Being in DC and at AU is a combination made in heaven, especially when your professors have participated in political campaigns, done extensive research in foreign countries, or worked in government.

Jan 06, 2012

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Academics at American University

sd9707a

'14

Education

4.6
A

Hard but Worth It

There is a ton of work and most of the professor and courses are very challenging, but it pays off and you learn a LOT. You will always find those certain classes and professor that you don't like, but the majority of professor are amazing and always willing to help you whenever you need and encourage you to do your best and try your hardest.

Nov 30, 2011

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Academics at American University

Torimcq

'15

Mass Communications and Media

N/A

Communications

Being a Communications major at American University is very interesting because it's Washington DC location is ideal for those interested in being a part of the political media.

Oct 26, 2011

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Page 1 of 16

Student Survey Poll ResultsWhat's This?

Rate your school’s professors on the following topics

Rate your school’s academic environment on the following topics

Facts

Instructional Programs Occupational: No
Academic: Yes
Continuing Professional: No
Recreational/Avocational: No
Adult Basic Remedial: No
Secondary (High School): No
Special Credit Opportunities Advanced Placement (AP) Credits: Yes
Dual Credit: No
Life Experience Credits: No
AP Test Score Requirements Credit for scores of 4 and 5
IB Test Score Requirements Higher-level tests for grades of 4 or higher
Undergraduate Schools/Divisions
  • College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)
  • Kogod School of Business (Kogod)
  • School of Communication (SOC)
  • School of International Service (SIS)
  • School of Public Affairs (SPA)
  • Washington College of Law (WCL)
Degrees Awarded
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Certificate
  • Doctorate - Professional practice
  • Doctorate - Research/scholarship
  • Master's degree
  • Post-bachelor's certificate
Most Popular Majors
  • Business Administration and Management: 5%
  • International Relations and National Security Studies: 10%
  • Law: 6%
  • Political Science and Government, General: 3%
Graduation Requirements
  • English (including composition)
  • Mathematics
  • Science (biological or physical)
Special Study Options
  • Distance learning opportunities
  • Study abroad
  • Teacher certification (below the postsecondary level)
  • Weekend/evening college
Other Academic Offerings
  • Accelerated program
  • Cooperative education program
  • Double major
  • Honors program
  • Independent study
  • Internships
  • Student-designed major
  • Washington semester
Best Places to Study
  • Bender Library
  • Residence hall lounges
  • Woods-Brown Amphitheater

Online Courses

Since online courses were first offered in 2004, AU has been steadily adding virtual courses to schedules. There are about 75 online courses a year.

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.
  • Chartered by an Act of Congress in 1892, AU bears the Congressional Seal on its diplomas.

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Most Recent Student Author

College Prowler guides are in the hands of students throughout the entire process. Because you can't make student-written guides without the students, we have students at each campus who write, edit, and survey their peers for every guide that we publish. Thanks to our most recent student author at AU

Name: Jesse MacDonald

Hometown: Brooklyn

Major: Law & Society

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