Interactive student learning offered each fall, specially designed for first-semester college students who have received admission to an accredited college for spring semester. Students reside at American University and earn a full semester of 15 credits before returning to the college to which they were admitted.
The Freshman Gateway Program is designed to mentor first semester college students in a small class environment, engage in a two day per week field practicum (internship), have four additional classes, some of which include guest speakers/site visits throughout Washington. Students reside on campus at American University and have full access to all facilities, including library, computer labs, health center, swimming pool, fitness and writing centers. The program is open to students of all intended majors, or for those who are uncertain.
Cross-Cultural Communication (3 credits)
The impact of culture on perception, thought patterns, and values in different cultures. Comparing and contrasting different communication styles. The issues of race, gender, class, and religion in various societies and the dynamics of cross cultural adjustment will be considered. Sample of seminar site visits: embassies, U.S. State Department, ethnic organizations, and advocacy groups.
Politics in the United States (3 credits)
The political system of the U.S. and the way the three branches of national government are affected by public opinion, political parties, interest groups, and the media. A number of key civil liberties issues facing American constitutional democracy are considered. Sample of seminar site visits: the U.S. Congress, lobby and advocacy groups, the federal court system, national political campaign headquarters, and the Executive Branch.
OR
Introduction to Systems of Justice (3 credits)
The structure and operation of the American system of justice, including law enforcement, courts and the adjudicatory process, sentencing, corrections, and capital punishment. Various forensic issues will be considered along with the impact of social policy on American society. Sample seminar site visits: court observation, meeting with judges and attorneys, crime scene investigators, polygraph experts, and DNA specialists.
The Mentored Field Practicum (3 credits)
Students spend two days a week building their resumes in an academically supervised Mentored Field Practicum. Faculty work with the students to identify a placement that provides a successful foundation for further academic and professional success. A class is held to put the work experience in academic perspective. Placements are in all areas to fit different interests. A small sample of placements of our past students include: BBC News, Democratic Policy Committee, Earth Day Network, Embassy of Colombia, Fox News, Inter-American Development Bank, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, National Geographic, NBC Sports, Peace Corps, Republican National Committee, Save Darfur Coalition, Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the U.S. Congress – Offices of Representatives and Senators, Washington Ballet Society, and washingtonpost.com.
College Writing (3 credits)
A course designed to help students write and read critically with a level of mastery equal to the demands of college course work. If students have acceptable AP English scores, an additional elective may be substituted for this course.
Elective Course (3 credits)
All Freshman Gateway Program students have two afternoons per week available for an elective course selected from regular American class offerings. Classes are available in arts and sciences, communication, business, government, and international relations.
Campus Living
Student participants in the Freshman Gateway Program are accommodated in professionally staffed American University residence halls. Students live in triple rooms with others enrolled in the program. Located in a prestigious neighborhood in upper northwest Washington just one block from the Redline metro. The neighborhood includes NBC News, the residences of the Swedish and Japanese ambassadors, the National Presbyterian Center, and Saint Ann's Catholic Church.
Cost
The costs for a semester in the Freshman Gateway Program are the same as for a regular American University undergraduate student: -
Tuition: $17,228
Fees: $272.50 total
Sports Center - $65
Technology - $120
Residence Hall Association - $14
Student Confederation - $73.50
Housing (triple room): $3,168
Meal Plan: $2,184 - $2,415
No financial aid is available for the Freshman Gateway Program. Although students may receive financial aid packages from their intended Spring semester institution, this aid cannot be applied to the Freshman Gateway Program. The program's costs are equal those on the main campus at AU.
For Further Information Contact
Farkanda Haseen, CoordinatorAmerican University
Freshman Gateway Program
Tenley Campus, Dunblane 114
4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20016-8083
Phone: 202-895-4936
Fax: 202-895-4939
