American University prides itself as leading institution in US education. One of the finest schools in Washington D.C., its prominence has even spread overseas, and it’s now recognized as one of the top universities in the US. And it's not even an Ivy League School, nor is it the most famous academic institution in the American capital. Despite several other, comparatively more well-known universities in D.C. and the rest of the country, American University stands tall. It remains a beacon for proper higher education for all Americans and beyond. What more could any scholar ask for?
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History of American University
Anyone and everyone who's had anything to do with American University has Methodist bishop John Fletcher Hurst to thank. It was through his efforts that the school was established on December 5, 1892, by an Act of Congress. Hurst aimed to create an institution that could teach and train future public servants. As such, he sought to establish the school in
Washington D.C., the Nation's capital. He even chose the university site, which was within the more rural outskirts of the city. On May 15, 1914, the school was officially regarded as a university.
What Does American University Look Like?
Today, American University stands on Massachusetts Avenue in the northwestern quadrant of the city. While it’s a major road itself, it's a fair distance away from other
central Washington D.C. neighborhoods, but the area is also far less rural than it used to be. This is also just one part of the overall campus. The other, the East campus, is on Nebraska Avenue. This is where you'll find the university's Washington College of Law, one of the major schools in the entire academic institution. And much like the other top schools in Washington D.C., American University has retained its original campus, Hurst Hall.
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The American University Student Body
American University is one of the biggest schools in Washington D.C., both when it comes to its campus and student body. The school welcomes over 13,000 students per year, composed of both new enrollees and returning students who have yet to graduate. To break it down even further, there are about 7,500 undergraduates, 3,600 postgraduates, and 1,900 other students at American University. These numbers all just go to show that the school remains as prominent as ever, even when the city has arguably more prestigious universities. Moreover, the school has almost 2,000 international students per year too.
American University's Best Programs and Courses
Bishop John Fletcher Hurst established the American University as an institution that trains future public servants. Today, the school continues that legacy. Though it has offered many other academic programs over the years, its courses related to Politics, Law, International Relations, and Government Administration still reign supreme. Its alumni list of prominent politicians stands proof of that too. At the same time, Mathematics and Finance also stand out among the university's many majors. They've produced countless graduates who have and continue to work in the business and banking sectors.
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American University’s Prerequisites
American University has an acceptance rate of 47.4%, which means any applicant's chances of getting accepted are practically 50-50. Among its many prerequisites include at least a high school diploma for undergraduates/ Bachelor's degree in any related field for postgraduates, school transcripts, recommendation letters, and an application essay. You'll also have to pay the one-time $75.00 application fee when you submit your requirements. Don't forget about your standardized test scores too! You'll need at least a 1440 SAT score or a 32 ACT score, not to mention either an 85 TOEFL score or a 6.5 IELTS score.
How Much Does It Cost to Study at The American University?
Is it expensive to study at American University? In the grand scheme of things, especially if you take the high
living costs in Washington D.C. into account, yes, it is! For undergraduates, the tuition fees range from $28,976.00 to $30,906.00 per semester. Postgraduates, on the other hand, have to pay at least $2,000.00 per credit hour. Those who plan on studying at the university's Washington College of Law (WCL) will also have to pay around $32,207.00 per semester. And of course, there are other mandatory fees on top of all of that. They include the aforementioned $75.00 one-time application fee, up to $88.50 activity fees, and a $120.00 technology fee.
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Where is American University in Washington D.C.?
As already mentioned, American University's main campus is on Massachusetts Avenue in Washington D.C.'s northwestern quadrant. The area is fairly near the city's Historic District but it's also a good distance away from other central neighborhoods. Hence, the place maintains a nice balance between the American capital's bustling energy and the nearby residential districts. Public transport makes it easy enough to reach, so you don't necessarily have to stay near the school. After all, there are many
luxury homes in Washington D.C. for rent and a lot of them are in other parts of the city.
American University's Famous Graduates
American University's alumni list reads like a who's who on various prominent figures in US politics, business, media, and more. The school originated and has long been a valued producer of public servants, so it makes sense that the likes of Representatives Ken Bentsen, Jr., Gwen Graham, Thomas Downey, Jim McGovern, and Bill Shuster, among many others. Many famous businessmen also graduated here, including the infamous Jordan Belfort, Goldman Sachs COO Gary Cohn, Plaza Hotel owner Shahal M. Khan, and more. Journalists Alisyn Camerota, Ed O'Keefe, and Ed O'Keefe are worth noting too, especially since they tie into the “public servant” angle of the school.
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Despite how many great and arguably more prestigious schools in Washington D.C. there are, American University still stands out as among the finest. This academic institution remains a beacon for proper education for Americans and beyond.
