
4400 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA


American University supports a vibrant athletics program competing primarily in NCAA Division I as part of the Patriot League. The university offers a variety of sports for both men and women, with opportunities for student-athletes to participate in basketball, soccer, lacrosse, cross country, and tennis, among others. This broad athletic roster provides students a chance to engage competitively while balancing academic commitments.
The university emphasizes not only competition but also fostering a community where athletes can develop leadership skills and maintain physical fitness. Facilities on campus include modern training centers and well-maintained fields designed to support the needs of the teams and enhance the overall student-athlete experience.
American University also promotes a strong culture of school spirit and fan engagement, hosting numerous home games and events throughout the academic year. Prospective students interested in athletics can look forward to being part of a supportive environment that values both academic and athletic excellence.
American University offers a vibrant campus life with a diverse student body comprising 2,712 men and 4,508 women. Although specific details about individual student groups and associations are not available, the university's enrollment figures suggest an active and engaged community where numerous opportunities for involvement are likely present.
American University enrolls a diverse student body across various enrollment categories and age groups. In terms of new students, the university welcomed 1,856 freshmen, which is considered a high number placing it in the top 30 percent nationally. Transfer students numbered 148, reflecting an average intake positioned around the bottom 45 percent. Overall, the total new student enrollment was 2,004, ranking in the top 40 percent among comparable institutions.
The age distribution highlights a predominantly traditional college-age undergraduate population. Most undergraduates fall between 18 and 21 years old, with 2,984 aged 18-19 and 3,620 aged 20-21. A smaller proportion ranges from 22 to 24 years old, totaling 1,076 students, and the numbers decline further in older age brackets. Graduate students present a notably older profile: the largest groups are aged 25-29 (1,953 students) and 22-24 (1,583 students), while mature learners aged 35 to above 65 constitute a meaningful segment of the graduate population as well.
The university's racial and ethnic composition is balanced across many groups. White students represent the largest demographic with 4,068 individuals, showing an above-average presence at American University. Hispanic and African American students each number in the mid-hundreds range - 1,014 and 597 respectively - both classified as average in representation. Asian students amount to 539, also near the average level. Those identifying with two or more races account for 428 students, which places this group near the top 35 percent nationally, indicating a relatively strong presence. Smaller groups include Native American and Pacific Islander students, each with only 3 students, and an additional 232 students whose ethnicity is unknown.
Student life at American University encompasses a variety of extracurricular opportunities designed to foster a well-rounded campus experience. Students have access to a campus newspaper, drama productions, radio broadcasting, chorus groups, and a television station, supporting diverse interests in media and the arts. Although the university does not have a campus band, these other creative outlets provide ample ways for students to engage and express themselves.
In terms of student support services, there are several important resources available. The university offers health clinic services, psychological counseling, a veterans affairs office, and a women's center, addressing the physical, mental, and social needs of its community. These facilities contribute to a supportive environment for a broad range of student concerns.
Athletics at American University are aligned with the NCAA, ensuring opportunities for students to participate in competitive collegiate sports. This affiliation affirms the institution's commitment to athletics as a component of student life.
American University offers access to two libraries, with the main facility being the Bender Library. This institution's library resources are considered average in number when compared to other universities, placing in the top half nationwide for the quantity of libraries available to students.
Students benefit from both physical and digital access to library materials, supported by trained staff and established hours of operation. The library system includes study rooms, allowing for both individual and group study sessions in a dedicated environment. Additionally, there is all-day access available, providing flexible hours to accommodate diverse student schedules.
The university supports access to shared collections, enhancing the breadth of materials available beyond its own holdings, which can be a valuable resource for research and study purposes.
Total enrollment
12321Full Time Degree Seeking Freshmen
1655Member of Athletic Associations
Data not availableTotal staff
815 full time, 629 part timeVeterans affair office
YesMain library name
Bender LibraryNumber of libraries on campus
2Reservable study rooms in library
Yes24h access
YesPhysical facilities
YesAccess to digital/electronic resources
YesStaff trained to provide and interpret library materials
YesEstablished library hours
YesAccess to library collections that are shared with other institutions
Yes