AU Organization Development-Tuition & Financial Aid | School of Public Affairs, American University, Washington DC

Estimated Costs

33 credit hours at $1,399 / hour: $46,174

Travel and meal costs are not included, nor is lodging expense for out-of-towners coming to Washington for class. Students should budget for travel, lodging and meals for one Residency in each year: the 6-night Founders' Residency (approximately $900-1,250 before transportation, depending on lodging choice); and the 11-night International Residency (approximately $1,800-$2,200 for travel, lodging, and meals) depending on host nation and field site.

A $250.00 nonrefundable deposit is required upon acceptance to the program (applied to total cost of the program).

Guidance for Calculating Costs for Travel & Lodging

Out of town AU students often stay in local hotels with nightly rates that range from $99 to $129. These rates are subject to change. Students may also choose to stay at Wesley Theological Seminary adjacent to American University's main campus for approximately $70 per night, depending upon availability. The Seminary, however, is closed during summer sessions.

Financing Your Degree

In additional to personal savings, students may finance their education in a number of ways:

Employer Sponsorship: Many students receive sponsorship from their employers for costs associated with the MSOD degree.

Government or Private Loans: U.S. citizens may apply for federal need-based assistance. See FAFSA program. The AU Financial Aid Office can be of assistance. Information for international students. Students who are on unemployment benefits may be eligible for training/education funding.

For Veterans: AU accepts GI bill payments and participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program.

Segal/Seashore Fellowship Fund: The Morley Segal and Edith Whitfield Seashore Fellowship is awarded to three or four students in an annual competition. These awards are in the range of $2500-3000.

Scholarships & Fellowships: In addition to the Segal/Seashore Fellowship, SPA offers other donor-funded scholarships. Also consider outside sources of aid.