American University is proud to be the first university in the United States to reach carbon neutrality. Through our innovative approach to reducing emissions, using green power, and purchasing strategic carbon offsets, we achieved this milestone two years early. Sustainability is part of our culture, history, and values and we will continue to combat climate change.

Waste Not, Want Not

Danielle Smith, SIS, CAS/BA ‘18

International Relations, Philosophy

The carbon neutrality announcement made me feel like we’ve had an actual impact

I'm proud of my role in AU carbon neutrality. As a Student Sustainability Educator, I table at events and monitor trashcans to conduct waste management. Since this process may be new to some of our students, we explain how their actions and consumption patterns on campus affect the university's waste stream.

Student Sustainability Educators work with the Office of Sustainability on programs around campus.

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Schools and Colleges

With eight schools and over 160 programs including bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, American University students choose a personalized curriculum of theoretical study and experiential learning, taught by internationally-recognized faculty in courses that take them from the classroom, to the nation’s capital, and all around the globe.

College of Arts & Sciences

College of Arts & Sciences

The largest school at American University, the College of Arts and Sciences features more than 100 degree programs that span the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Our diverse, scholarly community offers outstanding opportunities for hands-on interdisciplinary research, internships, and creative expression.

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Kogod School of Business

Kogod School of Business

A top-ranked, AACSB-accredited institution, the Kogod School of Business offers undergraduate degrees and graduate programs, including an MBA. Students gain real-world experience through programs grounded in experiential learning and expert faculty that prepare them to lead in all sectors of business: public, private, and nonprofit.

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School of Communication

School of Communication

From journalism to strategic communication to independent filmmaking and games, the School of Communication inspires tomorrow's digital storytellers. Students learn to produce media that matter with the support of faculty who have received the highest honors in their professional field, including Academy and Emmy awards and the Pulitzer Prize.

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School of Education

School of Education

With a vibrant community and passion for change, the School of Education is dedicated to creating and ensuring excellent learning experiences for every child. Through cutting-edge research, innovative outreach programs, and the development of inspiring coursework, students address the most challenging issues in the field.

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School of International Service

School of International Service

A top-10 school of international affairs, the School of International Service prepares graduate and undergraduate students for global service in government, nonprofits, and business while connecting them to an active international network of more than 20,000 alumni. Our students graduate prepared to combine knowledge with practice and wage peace in our world.

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School of Professional & Extended Studies

School of Professional & Extended Studies

Dedicated to professional and experiential learning, the School of Professional & Extended Studies (SPExS) offers an array of options for lifelong learners spanning the applied social sciences. Programs range from undergraduate internship-based semester programs to market-driven online master's degrees for professionals at critical junctures in their careers.

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School of Public Affairs

School of Public Affairs

Set in the heart of our nation's capital, the School of Public Affairs is a top-ranked school of public administration and policy, government, and justice. From our politically-engaged campus, students gain access to world-class faculty members, influencers, and internship opportunities where they can have a meaningful impact on our world.

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Washington College of Law

Washington College of Law

Today's economic, political, and social changes require innovative legal solutions. As one of the most diverse law schools in the country, the Washington College of Law equips students to navigate this new reality. Programs include international law, law and government, trial advocacy, and business, with experiential opportunities through clinics and externships.

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Life at AU

AU students are passionate, and that's definitely the case for these Green Eagles who champion sustainability efforts on campus. Find out more about how you can get involved.

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