Student life at AU

Campus life at AU provides the exciting opportunity to explore and engage in AU’s culture through activities, sports, 200 plus student-run organizations, and more.

Activities & sports

2,000 + participants in Intramural Sports

2,000 + participants in Intramural Sports

The Intramural Sports Program provides students, faculty, and staff the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of competitive and recreational leagues, tournaments, and special events. With over 20 activities throughout the year, sports include the traditional, such as soccer and basketball, and the non-traditional, like innertube water polo, badminton, kickball, and more.

250 student run organizations

250 student run organizations

The AU Club Council is a student governance organization that is directly funded by both the undergraduate and graduate Student Activity fee. It is dedicated to building stronger clubs at American University by supporting them with all the resources and expertise at our disposal.

25 Clubs Sports

25 Clubs Sports

Recognized by the department of Athletics and Recreation, opportunities to develop your athletic skills include baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, crew, and cycling.

Culture & Entertainment

Arts

Arts

With nine student media organizations on campus, there's a lot to enjoy:

  • The AU Arts, putting on a variety of theater, dance, and musical performances
  • WAMU 88.5 American University radio

Events

Events

Attend a global café and learn about international culture, or volunteer to help a great local organization. This is never a dull moment on campus:

  • Live music festivals
  • Live musical performances
  • Guest speakers and seminars

Arena

Arena

Bender Arena holds 4,500 fans for basketball and volleyball and 6,000 for concerts. This AU campus arena is home to:

  • Special Events
  • Camps
  • Tournaments

Campus & sunshine

Modern Facilities & Technology

Modern Facilities & Technology

The facilities at AU contribute significantly to the research and scholarly community by way of:

  • The University Center, which houses social and recreational facilities
  • Multiple research centers and institutes

Location

Location

AU’s unique location allows for both city and traditional campus experiences. Live in a city of opportunity, political life, history, and charm.

Outdoor Space

Outdoor Space

With 84 acres of land, the campus offers:

  • A beautiful collection of shrubs, trees, and flowers as part of the ten gardens in the Arboretum
  • The University Labyrinth, a space for reflection, meditation, and rest in the heart of the AU campus

Can you guess the most popular degree?

At American, nearly 2,000 students major in international studies. This famous and highly respected program is a great choice if you’re considering a career in government, diplomacy, public service, or advocacy.
See undergraduate degrees