Learning by doing—or experiential learning—is a hallmark of an American University education. Students at AU gain hands-on experiences that not only enrich their learning but also cultivate essential skills for their future success. AU offers a range of learning opportunities, empowering you to forge your own path and choose experiences tailored to prepare you for success.

For example, students can take their education outside the classroom with service learning and research via programs like our Community-Based Research Scholars and the Community Service-Learning Program. Our DC location provides an opportunity for invaluable internships during the school year. In fact, 86% of AU undergraduates participate in an internship before graduation. The best part? You can fit all these opportunities into a four-year course of study so you don't have to spend any additional time or money.

AU has one of the highest study abroad rates, with 60% of undergraduates studying abroad before they graduate. Our AU Abroad program offers an extensive array of nearly 100 programs spanning across 40 countries, catering to students seeking either single-semester or year-long experiences.

For those seeking a shorter international or off-campus experience, our Alternative Break programs can also give you that international or outside of DC experience.

These opportunities are part of a normal four-year course of study, saving you time and money.

Located in a green and residential corner of DC, our campus is your escape from the bustling heart of the city. Yet we are just minutes away from all the culture, energy, and unrivaled opportunities of the nation's capital.

Our surrounding community is filled with tree-lined pathways, cozy cafes and restaurants, and contemplative spaces for meaningful reflection and connection. Catch a ride on Metrorail or Metrobus into the city with AU's U-Pass program for even more to do. Visit century-old landmarks, check out the vibrant arts scene with museums and theatres, or eat your way through the city's neighborhoods.

Take one look at our campus, lined with trees, plants, and gardens, and you might forget we’re in a major city. With 385 different species and varieties of woody plants-totaling 4,000 trees-AU’s campus is a designated arboretum.

We're green in other ways too. As the first university in the country to achieve carbon neutrality in 2018, AU is blazing a trail to a more sustainable future. AU’s commitment to sustainability permeates every aspect of campus life and unites students, faculty, and staff in a common mission to preserve our environment.