American University's University College is a unique and challenging academic experience, open only to first-year students, that combines class work with a special residential setting and exciting learning activities in Washington, D.C. The program combines the best elements of college life with the vast opportunities for learning and discovery that the city has to offer. The University College first-year seminar creates a stimulating, small-group learning experience: each seminar is limited to about 20 students, which promotes more discussion and interaction than is possible in large lecture classes. All seminars are 100-level courses that fulfill a University-wide requirement - that means that no matter your course of study, your UC seminar will fit right into your program. In addition, your UC experience includes a living-learning component, and a 1-credit Washington Lab designed to connect your academic experience with the real world.
All University College seminars are taught by outstanding members of the AU faculty who are respected scholars in their fields. Additionally, your professor is assisted by a program associate—an upperclass student who lives in your residential neighborhood, attends your seminar, acts as a mentor, and helps implement the cocurricular components of the course.
When you join the University College community, you'll live in one of the on-campus residence halls with other American University students. However, each University College seminar is linked to a particular residence hall and may even be taught in that hall. Your roommate will be a seminar classmate, and your other classmates will live on the same floor. This residential neighborhood creates an environment in which you can more easily build relationships with other talented students, share academic interests and experiences, and adjust to college life in D.C. together. Your program associate will live nearby and be available as a mentor and resource. The University College's out-of-class activities seamlessly link your specific course to the unrivaled resources of Washington, D.C. You'll also start your first semester by participating the week before classes officially begin in either the Freshman Service Experience or the DiscoverDC program -- whichever your professor has selected to enhance your University College Course.
