American University's more than 5,000 undergraduates are a microcosm of the world's diversity. From across the United States and from more than 150 countries, students share a desire to shape tomorrow's world. As does many Washington D.C. private universities, AU actively promotes international understanding, and this is reflected in its curricula offerings, faculty research, and the regular presence of world leaders on campus.

American University is for students who want to understand - and influence - how the world works. Maintaining a position atop liberal arts colleges in Washington D.C., AU's academically rigorous curriculum enables students to combine serious theoretical study with meaningful real-world learning experiences. Whatever major students choose, they acquire a solid foundation in the liberal arts and pursue in-depth study in their chosen fields.

AU students are grounded in a distinctive campus culture of high-quality academic inquiry, ethical awareness, and intense engagement in Washington and abroad. In fact, the Student Activities staff serves as advisors, mentors, and facilitators to the student leaders and members of more than 180 recognized clubs, organizations, student government and student media.