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American University was incorporated by the government of the District of Columbia in 1891, chartered by an Act of Congress in 1893, and founded under the auspices of the United Methodist Church. The university’s first building was completed in 1898; its first class graduated in 1916.
American University is an independent coeducational university with more than 13,000 students enrolled in undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and professional degree programs. Located on an 84-acre residential campus in upper northwest Washington, DC, the university attracts a diverse student body from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the territories, and more than 130 foreign countries.
A short distance from Washington’s centers of government, business, research, commerce, and art, the American University buildings include the university library, administrative and academic buildings, ten residence halls, an interdenominational religious center, and a sports center. Facilities include 24-hour computer laboratories, radio and TV studios, science laboratories, art studios, recital halls, and a theatre. The Washington College of Law is located a half mile from the campus on Massachusetts Avenue.
American University has a student to faculty ratio of 12:1. The distinguished faculty includes renowned experts and scholars of national and international reputation in public affairs, law, history, economics, business, international relations, education, science, communication, and the arts. In addition to the over eight hundred members of its full-time faculty, adjunct faculty are drawn from the Washington, DC professional community, including policy makers, diplomats, journalists, artists, writers, scientists, and business leaders.
Washington, DC is a city of learning resources in every discipline, from the arts and humanities to the sciences to public affairs. The Smithsonian Institution, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, National Gallery of Art, National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine, Library of Congress, National Archives, World Bank, Brookings Institution, more than 170 embassies and chanceries, and the headquarters of many associations and international organizations are located in the Washington, DC area. The libraries, museums, and art galleries of Washington contain unsurpassed collections. These resources are sites for research, field trips, internships, and employment. Because of these resources, American University students can put their education to work in Washington as they could nowhere else in the country.
Academic Programs
American University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs through its seven major divisions: College of Arts and Sciences; Kogod School of Business; School of Communication; School of International Service; School of Professional and Extended Studies; School of Public Affairs; and Washington College of Law. There are 68 bachelor’s programs, 71 master’s programs, and 10 doctoral programs, exclusive of the Washington College of Law’s JD, LLM, and SJD programs. Additionally, students have the opportunity to create individualized, interdisciplinary programs at the bachelor’s level. Organized by major division, this catalog provides further information on these academic programs, certificate programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as the Washington Semester, Gateway, Internship, and other innovative programs of the School of Professional and Extended Studies.
The following academic opportunities, some of which are detailed elsewhere in the catalog, are also available.
AU Abroad
AU Abroad offers the opportunity for undergraduate students to study abroad and gain full American University course credit. Students may spend a summer, a semester or a year on over 140 programs in over 40 countries, spanning six continents. Students have the option of directly enrolling in prestigious universities abroad, participating in unique programs created specifically for American University students, or experiencing hybrid programs with the opportunity to take courses at a university abroad as well as specifically designed courses. On many of these programs, students also have the opportunity to participate in credit bearing internships. For more information and a full listing of AU Abroad programs, call 202-885-1320 or 866-313-0757; e-mail auabroad@american.edu; or go to: www.auabroad.american.edu/.
Abroad at AU
American University’s Abroad at AU program welcomes students from around the world to study for a year or a semester in the capital of the United States. Participants in Abroad at AU are required to take a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester to qualify as a full-time student. In addition, there is a noncredit option for students from partnership institutions.
University Honors Program
The University Honors Program is a comprehensive program of honors options drawn from the General Education curriculum, departmental course offerings, and honors colloquia for qualified undergraduate students. The program is characterized by small seminars, individualized attention from faculty, unique access to the resources of Washington, DC, and the special atmosphere of an honors community of committed faculty and students. This program accepted first-year students from 1989 through Fall 2013 and will accept transfer and self-nominated students through Spring 2015.
AU Honors Program
The AU Honors Program is an innovative approach to liberal arts education, employing integrative problem solving and featuring interdisciplinary, team-taught courses. Students acquire advanced skills in research, communication, and innovation and work with leaders in pinnacle institutions. For more information, see University Regulations and Policies , Undergraduate Academic Honors . This program accepted its first students in Fall 2014.
Honorary Societies
Undergraduate students have the opportunity to be elected to the AU Zeta Chapter of Phi Beta Kappa, the nation’s oldest honorary scholastic society for exceptional academic achievement in the liberal arts. Election to the American University chapter of Golden Key International Honour Society (recognizing outstanding scholarship, service, and leadership for students in all academic fields) is also available for qualified students, as well as the National Society of Collegiate Scholars (honoring students for outstanding scholarship and community service).
Many academic disciplines have chapters of national honor societies as well. For more information, consult the appropriate department or academic unit.
Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area
American University is a member of the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area, a program through which students may take selected courses not offered by their home institutions at any of the other consortium member schools.
ROTC
American University students may participate in the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) through the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area. Air Force ROTC is offered at Howard University. For more information on AFROTC, please see http://www.coas.howard.edu/airforcerotc. Army ROTC is offered at Georgetown University. For more information on Army ROTC see http://rotc.georgetown.edu.
University Community
University Library
The Jack I. and Dorothy G. Bender Library and Learning Resources Center is a campus academic and research destination, providing access to information, collections, and research tools for American University. The Library offers expert and personalized guidance for students and faculty through the entire research process, including complex and multidisciplinary scholarship. The Research Commons connects campus services, such as the Writing Center, Statistical Consulting, the Technology Support Desk, and others, with Library Research Services in a convenient location within the library. The Music Library is located in the Katzen Arts Center and has collections that cover a broad spectrum of media, periods, and styles.
The Bender library building housing the general book collections is open 24 hours except for Friday and Saturday nights for most of the Fall and Spring semesters, see http://www.american.edu/library/about/hours.cfm. The portal for searching for research materials is through the University Library website: http://www.american.edu/library/index.cfm. The online research resources of AU’s library include online guides to research in specific subject areas, e-books, online periodical subscriptions, and databases with content including full text publications, downloadable data, video, and audio.
Students and faculty use their AU ID cards to borrow materials, and may stop by the Borrowing Desk on the main floor to learn about their borrowing privileges. The Library’s participation and partnership in the Washington Research Library Consortium (WRLC) augments AU’s collections and provides access to a rich array of print resources, primary source materials, and electronic resources. Many WRLC materials are available for delivery to AU within 1-2 business days.
The Library lends a variety of technology devices, cameras, and other equipment; provides computer workstations; and has excellent wireless connectivity throughout the building for personal devices. Students can print posters or 3D objects on our specialized printers at low cost. Assistance is available for technology support, multimedia creation, and specialized printing within the library. The Library operates the campus computing labs, including the Anderson Computing Complex (ACC), the SPA lab, and dorm cluster labs, as well as Academic Multimedia Services (AMS), and Audio/Visual Services (AV). The library also operates the Geospatial Research Lab, located in the ACC, which supports research and teaching through the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology and resources.
Library Special Collections contain rare books, manuscripts, and personal papers. Areas of interest include collections related to the Peace Corps (e.g., Friends of Columbia Archives, records of the National Peace Corps Association, and a growing Returned Peace Corps Volunteers archive); collections related to journalism (e.g., the Bartlett 38 Steele Archive); and collections related to public history (e.g., Staples 38 Charles Archive). The University Archives, a repository of documents, photographs, and sound recordings spanning more than a century of the University’s history, are also located in the library.
Harold and Sylvia Greenberg Theatre
The Harold and Sylvia Greenberg Theatre is a showcase to the university’s commitment to the performing arts. It is a state-of-the-art 300-seat theatre with scenic and costume design shops and technical theatre learning spaces that allow students the opportunity to perform and learn in a top-quality setting, thereby enriching the program, the university, and the Washington, DC community.
Katzen Arts Center
American University’s Katzen Arts Center, named for Washington area benefactors Dr. and Mrs. Cyrus Katzen, brings all the visual and performing arts departments into one 130,000-square-foot space. Designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration in the arts, the Katzen includes the three-story American University Museum, the Abramson Family Recital Hall, the Studio Theatre and Dance Studio, art and graphic design studios, two electronic music studios, practice rooms, music teaching studios, rehearsal spaces, and classrooms.
WAMU 88.5
WAMU 88.5 is licensed to American University and began broadcasting in 1961. It is the leading public radio station for NPR news and information in the greater Washington, DC area, providing programming to a total audience of more than 756,700 listeners on-air and online. In addition to its flagship frequency, WAMU broadcasts on 88.3 Ocean City and 89.5 Fredericksburg, as well as Bluegrass Country 105.5. WAMU is also home to digital platforms wamu.org and Bandwidth.fm, an online destination covering DC’s music scene.
Technology and Computing Resources
All students receive a user name with access to the campus network, myau.american.edu web portal, an AU-sponsored Gmail account, Blackboard, and a personal web profile, if desired. Computing resources are delivered via a fiber optic network. Wireless network access is also available in all campus buildings, as well as outdoors on the Quad or Amphitheater. High-capacity dedicated Internet service is available to everyone. Fifteen gigabytes of free data storage is provided as part of the AU-sponsored Gmail account. It can be spread across Google Drive, Gmail, and Photos.
Over 20 computer laboratories on campus offer a variety of personal computer and Mac systems, as well as fee-based high-speed laser printing. There are general-purpose facilities available to all students, some open 24 hours a day during most of the academic year. There are also many specialized labs supporting specific academic disciplines. Use of these labs may be restricted to students taking relevant courses or enrolled in specific degree programs. A virtual computing lab is available to AU students, which provides remote access to specialized lab software from anywhere on the Internet.
The AU network provides students with access to site-licensed software and the resources of ALADIN, the university’s online library catalog. Online academic collaboration is provided to the campus using software tools such as Blackboard and other electronic resources.
Nonresident students are encouraged to arrange for Internet service through a private Internet service provider. Laptop computers and other mobile devices can be used anywhere on campus, once they have been configured to access eagle-secure.
The Office of Information Technology’s Help Desk answers questions and provides general computer trouble-shooting assistance via telephone (202-885-2550) and e-mail (helpdesk@american.edu). The best time to call is from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, but the Help Desk is staffed every day, around the clock for emergencies. The Help Desk also provides assistance via online chat during reduced hours on weekdays (www.american.edu/oit/HelpDesk-Chat.cfm). Students may bring their laptops or other devices to the Technology Support Desk in the University Library from 10 AM to 6 PM on weekdays for technical support and troubleshooting. Throughout the year, a variety of training classes are offered to help members of the academic community use computing resources. For more information, go to www.american.edu/oit/.
All students must agree to the terms of the university’s Computer Use and Copyright Policy, which is in the University Codes, Policies, and Guidelines section of the Student Handbook.
Athletics and Recreation
American University Athletics
AU Athletics includes sixteen varsity sports that compete in the Patriot League along with Army, Boston University, Bucknell, Colgate, Holy Cross, Lafayette, Lehigh, Loyola MD, and Navy. Recent successes include the 2008 and 2009 Patriot League Men’s Basketball champions, the eight time defending Patriot League field hockey champions, ten Patriot League volleyball championships since 2001, and a wrestling team that finished fifth in the nation in 2010-11.
For up-to-the-minute information, video highlights, scores, and stats on American University athletics, go to www.AUeagles.com; facebook.com/AUeagles; twitter.com/aueagles; or download the AUeagles Mobile App.
Athletic Events-Blue Crew Membership
American University students are admitted free-of-charge to all regular season home athletic events with valid AU ID. The AU Blue Crew is the official student fan group of American University Athletics and is a key driving force behind the success of all of AU’s athletic teams. The Blue Crew provides for the best and most exciting student game day atmosphere in all of the Patriot League. Membership is free for all AU undergraduate, graduate, and law school students, and after sign-up each member receives exclusive membership t-shirt and ID card valid for great discounts at local area restaurants and stores. Blue Crew members also receive exclusive access to game day promotions and giveaways and the best seats to games. Be sure to visit AUeagles.com/BlueCrew to sign up, and mark your calendars to attend all of the Phil Bender World Tour events each semester.
Athletics and Recreation Facilities
American University’s Sports Center houses Bender Arena, Reeves Aquatic Center, the William I Jacobs Fitness Center, and Athletics and Recreation Department offices. The center includes four full-size basketball/volleyball courts, a 25-yard swimming pool, and a warm-up pool. Outdoor facilities include the Reeves soccer/lacrosse field, Greenberg running track, Reeves tennis courts, Jacobs Field, and two basketball courts behind the Sports Center. The William I Jacobs recreational complex, which opened in Fall 2005, includes an astroturf field hockey surface, a softball field, state-of-the-art scoreboard, and two outdoor sand volleyball courts. New to the Athletic and Recreation facilities is the Cassell Fitness Center, conveniently located on the first floor of Cassell Hall, the newest residence hall on the northwest corner of American University’s main campus.
Recreational Sports and Fitness
The Jacobs Fitness Center is located off the lobby of the Sports Center and offers a variety of cardio machines, strength equipment and free weights, in addition to a group exercise studio, and locker rooms with available rental lockers. Recreational Sports and Fitness members also have access to the Reeves Aquatic Center and Bender Arena during recreational swim and open court hours.
The Cassell Fitness Center, located on the first floor of Cassell residence hall, is an 8,000 sq. ft. fitness facility with a state-of-the-art fitness area with a wide range of cardio equipment, strength machines, and weights. This fitness center is also home to two group exercise studios which allow Recreational Sports and Fitness to host a variety of special events and larger group exercise classes.
Recreational Sports and Fitness also provides a variety of services for additional fees including group exercise classes, yoga, personal training, fitness assessments, and intramural and club sport opportunities. The centers are staffed with health and fitness professionals who are dedicated to the field, trained in the use of the equipment, and ready to assist with an exercise program to achieve personal health goals.
Students with a valid AU ID who are currently registered for classes are eligible to use the Fitness Centers. Recreational Sports and Fitness memberships are also available at discounted fees for faculty, staff, and alumni.
Hours of operation vary according to the academic calendar and scheduled university events. Specific information on the hours of operation is available on the web at www.american.edu/recfit/ or by calling the Info Line at 202-885-6267.
Dining Services and Stores
AU Dining strives to create a dining program that increases student satisfaction, acting on values centered on social responsibility and service. Let us know about your dining experience at auxiliary@american.edu.
| Mary Graydon Center |
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Bene Pizza 38 Pasta, Elevation Burger, Global Fresh, P.O.D. Market Mini, Freshii, Einstein Brothers Bagels, University Club, Terrace Dining Room |
| Butler Pavilion |
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P.O.D. Market, Subway, Starbucks |
| Katzen Arts Center |
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Argo Tea |
Campus Store
The campus store, located on the second and third floors of the Butler Pavilion, carries officially licensed American University apparel, required textbooks, general books, greeting cards, giftware, tech accessories, and designer and fashion trends. Visit http://www.shopamericanu.com.
Independently Operated Retails
Other stores and services on campus include independent food vendors, banking, and shipping and copy center.
Child Development Center
American University’s Child Development Center, located on campus, is a licensed preschool for children 2½ to 6 years old. Highly-qualified teachers, supported by trained student interns, provide a developmentally appropriate program of active learning in the areas of physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development. Children of students, faculty, and staff may be enrolled in this stimulating and nurturing full-day program. In addition, the center offers students from many disciplines a place to intern and observe, create, and test theories involving children. For more information on the Child Development Center, call 202-885-3330 or go to: www.american.edu/hr/CDC.cfm.
Parking and Traffic
Parking at American University is by permit or Pay-As-You-Go machines only, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Designated reserved, handicapped, and service vehicle spaces are enforced 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Visitors may purchase hourly or daily parking permits from the Pay-As-You-Go machines at the School of International Service Parking Garage or the Katzen Arts Center Parking Garage.
Freshmen and Washington Semester students are not permitted to have vehicles on campus or to park in Advisory Neighborhood Commissions 3D and 3E. Further, parking along the neighborhood streets is strictly prohibited.
In accordance with Washington, DC regulations and the University’s “Good Neighbor Policy,” all members of the University community - including students, faculty, staff, visitors, and guests - are required to do one of the following while attending class, working, or visiting AU owned property:
A. Park on campus and obtain a parking permit;
B. Purchase hourly/daily parking using the Pay-As-You-Go machines; or
C. Use public transportation.
Compliance with the Good Neighbor Policy is a condition of enrollment and/or employment at American University.
Special access parking spaces are available throughout campus. Vehicles parked in these spaces must display valid handicap or disability license plates or permits. Temporary AU disability permits may be obtained from the Parking and Traffic Services office. For an American University handicap permit longer than 3 days, students must consult the Academic Support and Access Center and have medical documentation.
Additionally, the Occasional Parking Program provides an alternative between daily or monthly parking rates, and allows commuters to purchase parking according to their specific needs. Occasional Parking Permits are valid in all main campus parking garages and surface lots, except in reserved or restricted use spaces.
For more information, call 202-885-3111 or go to: www.american.edu/parking/.
Shuttle Services
American University encourages the use of the Washington, DC transit system (Metrorail, Metrobus). A free AU shuttle service for students, faculty, staff, and visitors is available to and from the Tenleytown/AU Metrorail station, Tenley Campus, and the Washington College of Law. Access for persons with disabilities is available. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 7:00 am to 12:30 am; Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 am; Saturday, 8:00 am to 3:30 am; and Sunday, 8:00 am to 1:00 am.
For a shuttle schedule or more information, call 202-885-3311, e-mail Shuttle@american.edu or visit www.american.edu/finance/facilities/shuttle.cfm.
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