You are here: American University School of Public Affairs Admissions Combined BA/MA Programs

Back to top

Overview

Current AU undergraduate students have the option to apply for admission to a Masters program in the School of Public Affairs as a combined program applicant while still enrolled in their undergraduate degree program. Students interested in admission to a combined Bachelor's & Master's program must:

  1. Meet with an SPA undergraduate advisor to discuss SPA master's degree options and eligibility for the combined bachelor's/master's program. Appointments can be made through the online scheduler or by calling (202)-885-6200.
  2. Complete 75 (minimum) to 90 (maximum) undergraduate credits to be eligible to apply for combined bachelor's/master's admission.
  3. Meet with an SPA Graduate Advisor for the specific master's degree program which interests you to learn more about the requirements for the master's degree, the timing to enter and complete the program, and the application process.
  4. Prepare and submit the SPA graduate application for bachelor's/master's admission. The application is available on the SPA Graduate Admissions webpage. The GRE exam is not required for bachelor's/master's applicants. The graduate application fee is waived, as well.

Please note that the application for bachelor's/master's admission will typically be submitted early in the student's second semester junior year (when the student has completed 75-90 credits). Students who are admitted to the program will enroll in approved graduate level classes during their senior year which will count for both bachelor's and master's degree requirements. Speak with your advisor about the timing to apply for and begin the program based on the number of credits your have completed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Highly qualified current AU undergraduate students in good academic standing, who have completed 75-90 credit hours.

  • This combined program provides students the opportunity to seek admission and continue their studies in an AU master's program.
  • Graduate degrees provide advanced knowledge and skills, both of which, are attractive to future employers.
  • The combined nature of the program allows for a seamless transition from undergraduate to graduate study.
  • Shared credit across both levels of study provide a unique tuition benefit for earning both degrees.
  • You can further develop the relationships you have built with the School of Public Affairs faculty and staff.
  • Credit share allows you to take designated 500 and 600 level courses during your final year of undergraduate study.
  • These designated courses are then applied to and fulfill both undergraduate and graduate degree requirements.
  • Designated credits are specific to each student's academic plan. Meet with an SPA Undergraduate Academic Counselor to discuss which courses might work best for you.
  • Schedule an appointment to meet with an SPA Undergraduate Academic Advisor to confirm where in your current undergraduate degree plan you have the opportunity to share graduate-level courses, your academic standing, and which program is best for you.
  • Meet with an SPA Graduate Advisor to learn more about the different master's programs, the application process, when the best time to apply is, and the about the faculty who teach in the program.
  • Keep an eye out for important deadlines and dates.

Visit the SPA FAQ page to explore more questions about graduate studies at SPA.

Apply Now

Start or continue your application for a School of Public Affairs graduate program

Apply Now

Still Have Questions?

Please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions (OGA) at 202-885-6230 or spaapp@american.edu. We're here to help!