American University School of International Service: Shaping Future Global Leaders
American University (AU) stands as a prominent institution dedicated to empowering future leaders through innovative programs and hands-on experiences. Its School of International Service (SIS) is a cornerstone of this mission, offering a comprehensive education in international affairs. With a prime location in Washington, DC, and a commitment to experiential learning, SIS provides students with unparalleled opportunities to engage with global issues and make a meaningful impact on the world. At American University, every ambition begins with two words: Challenge Accepted.
A Tradition of Excellence in International Affairs
Established in 1957, the School of International Service has cultivated an extensive alumni network of over 20,000 individuals. SIS enrolls more than 3,000 students from over 150 countries. The school makes extensive use of the academic and governmental resources offered by its location in Washington, D.C. The founding of schools of international affairs was urged by President Dwight D. Eisenhower during the height of the Cold War. In 1958, the school admitted its first full-time class, replacing AU's Department of International Relations. In 1967, SIS added its International Communications program, the first such program offered by an American university. In 1981 SIS inaugurated the Ibn Khaldun Chair of Islamic Studies to address concerns that American universities lacked an appropriate venue for exploring the greater Muslim-Western understanding. In the 1990s, SIS established dual degree programs with Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto, Japan and Korea University in Seoul, Korea. In 1991, SIS added the Center for the Global South, followed in 1995 by the addition of the Mohammed Said Farsi Chair in Islamic Peace, and in 2000 with a joint program on National Resources and Sustainable Development with the United Nations University for Peace. New degree options implemented in 2010 include the Global Scholars Program, a concentrated three-year B.A. program, an M.A.
SIS has a long history of adapting to the evolving needs of the international arena, consistently adding new programs and resources to enhance its students' education.
Experiential Learning in the Heart of Washington, DC
American University's location in Washington, DC, provides SIS students with a distinct advantage. The city serves as a classroom, laboratory, and playground, offering front-row seats to history in the making. Students gain hands-on work experience through internships at prestigious organizations, government agencies, businesses, and nonprofits. In fact, 85% of AU students complete an internship before graduating.
The opportunity to intern in DC is a huge advantage that American University offers. Students can apply what they have learned in the classroom and make connections that will help them in the future.
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Diverse Academic Programs
SIS offers a wide array of academic programs to cater to students' diverse interests and career aspirations. These include:
Bachelor of Arts in International Studies
The School of International Service offers a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies. With over 70 majors and the flexibility to combine studies across six undergraduate schools, students shape their education around their passions and goals. AU blends the caliber of an R1 research institution with the personal attention of a liberal arts college, where small classes and interdisciplinary curriculum enhanced by experiential learning remain in focus.
Dual Degree Programs
SIS has established dual degree programs with Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto, Japan and Korea University in Seoul, Korea. The school also has programs with Ritsumeikan University, Korea University, and Sookmyung University.
Ph.D. in International Relations
The Ph.D. program in International Relations at SIS prepares students for careers as teachers and scholars at universities and research institutes in the private and public sectors. Ph.D. graduates include prominent figures such as Akbar S. Ahmed.
Master's Programs
SIS offers various Master's programs, including an Executive Master in International Service.
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A Vibrant Campus Community
On AU’s campus, energy and activity are all around. Notable speakers, exciting games, unforgettable concerts, and cherry blossoms in bloom are just a few of the many AU student experiences. The university fosters a strong sense of community through over 250 student-run clubs and organizations, providing endless opportunities for students to make lasting friendships and enjoy their time at AU. AU is home to traditions tracing back over a century to the university's founding and new practices created by students in recent years! Get to know cherished events like Convocation, Spirit of Change Week, AmFest, Jazz in the Katz, Veloric Concert, Culturefest, and more. And when it’s time to recharge from all the fun and excitement, our cozy yet vibrant residence halls and top-tier dining services have you covered.
Study Abroad Opportunities
While DC has a lot to offer, so does the rest of the world. With AU Abroad, you’ll have the opportunity to study just about anywhere in the world. News & World Report (2025), and 50% of our Class of May 2024 studied abroad while at American University.
Commitment to Accessibility and Affordability
At American University, we believe that access to a world-class education should be open to all, not just a privileged few. Our need-based financial aid programs ensure that talented students have equal access to all that AU offers. We also believe in a holistic admissions process. You are more than the sum of your grades and test scores, and we want to know about you inside and out of the classroom. We offer a number of options to apply to AU including Early Action and Early Decision.
Notable Alumni
SIS has produced numerous distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to the field of international affairs. These include:
- Susan Rice - the 24th United States National Security Advisor from 2013 to 2017 during the Barack Obama administration. Ambassador to the United Nations.
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