American University, located in Washington, D.C., is a prestigious institution known for its commitment to fostering a vibrant learning environment that emphasizes social responsibility and public service. Founded in 1893, the university's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Because Ideas Matter." This reflects its dedication to academic excellence and the belief that education is a powerful tool for societal change. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, with notable strengths in international relations, political science, law, and business. The School of International Service is particularly recognized for its rigorous curriculum and distinguished faculty, preparing students for impactful careers in diplomacy and global affairs.

The campus itself is a hub of cultural and intellectual activity, featuring modern facilities that support both academic and extracurricular pursuits. The university is home to a diverse student body, fostering an inclusive atmosphere where students from different backgrounds can engage in meaningful dialogues. American University is also known for its active student life, with numerous organizations and clubs that cater to a variety of interests, from community service to cultural celebration. Moreover, the university's prime location in the nation’s capital provides students with unique opportunities for internships and networking in government agencies, NGOs, and various industries. With a strong emphasis on global citizenship and civic engagement, American University equips its graduates with the skills and experiences necessary to make a difference in the world.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Gender Ratios at American University

The data from American University highlights several important trends over the years, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, and gender ratios among students.

Firstly, tuition fees have shown a consistent upward trajectory from 2014 to 2024. The cost for in-state undergraduate students rose from approximately $40,649 in 2014 to an estimated $56,543 by 2024, marking a significant increase of about 39%. This trend reflects a broader national concern regarding the affordability of higher education, which continues to rise faster than inflation, making it increasingly challenging for students to finance their education without incurring substantial debt.

In terms of graduation rates, the on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students has shown fluctuations, peaking at 76.9% in 2017 before dropping to around 74.1% in 2023. This slight decline may suggest challenges in student retention or academic support, especially as tuition increases could contribute to financial stress among students, potentially affecting their academic performance and persistence.

Furthermore, the gender ratio in the student body has shifted slightly over the years. The proportion of female undergraduates has increased from approximately 59.4% in 2014 to about 63.7% in 2023. This trend indicates a growing female representation in higher education, which aligns with national statistics showing that women are enrolling in and graduating from college at higher rates than men.

These trends provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of American higher education, emphasizing the need for institutions to address financial and support systems to foster student success amidst rising costs and changing demographics.

Analysis of Graduation Data at American University (2023)

The graduation data from American University reveals intriguing trends in various academic disciplines for the year 2023. Notably, the field of Public Relations/Image Management stands out with 102 bachelor's degree graduates, indicating a strong interest in communication and media-related careers. This trend aligns with the increasing importance of digital media and public relations in today's globalized economy, suggesting that students are preparing for roles that require adeptness in managing public perceptions and communications.

Conversely, traditional fields such as Law and Public Policy Analysis show zero bachelor's degree graduates. This is particularly striking given the critical role these areas play in shaping societal frameworks and governance. The absence of graduates in these fields may reflect a shift in student interest towards more interdisciplinary or practical applications of their studies, as evidenced by the 121 graduates in Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies. This could suggest a growing recognition of the value of cross-disciplinary knowledge in addressing complex global challenges.

Moreover, the data shows a commendable number of master's degree graduates, particularly in Public Policy Analysis and Homeland Security, with 105 and 104 graduates respectively. This indicates a robust interest in advanced studies, particularly in public administration and national security, which are increasingly vital in today's socio-political climate.

Lastly, the presence of a few international students in master's programs highlights the university's appeal to a global audience, although the numbers remain modest. This could be an area for growth, as attracting more international students can enhance diversity and enrich the learning environment. Overall, the 2023 graduation data illustrates significant shifts in student interests and the evolving landscape of higher education at American University.

Analysis of American University Admission Trends and Rankings

The admission trends and rankings of American University reveal a fluctuating yet downward trajectory over the years. The most recent ranking for 2025 is 91, which marks a significant drop from previous years, particularly from 2024's position at 105. This decline in ranking may raise concerns about the university's competitiveness and appeal within higher education. Examining the admission rates, we observe that the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown variability. In 2022, there was a notable spike in acceptance rates, with males at around 61% and females at approximately 66%. However, this spike was followed by a decline in subsequent years, with the rates for 2023 dropping to about 38% for males and 42% for females. This sharp decrease suggests a more selective admissions process, which could be a response to the university's efforts to improve its ranking and attract higher-caliber applicants. Additionally, the number of enrolled students has also experienced fluctuations, with the highest enrollment of 2,372 in 2022, possibly correlating with its peak acceptance rates. In contrast, the enrollment numbers appear to be stabilizing around the 1,700 mark in recent years, indicating potential challenges in attracting new students amidst a competitive landscape. Overall, American University's evolving rankings and admission statistics highlight the complexities of the current educational environment, where institutions must navigate both selectivity and accessibility while aiming to enhance their reputation and appeal to prospective students.

Trends in SAT Scores and Participation at American University

The data from American University reveals significant trends in SAT score submissions and acceptance rates over the years. Notably, there's a discernible decline in the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores, dropping from 94% in 2007 to just 25% in 2023. This decline may reflect a broader shift in college admissions policies, as many institutions are moving towards test-optional admissions, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Examining the SAT score ranges, we can see a gradual increase in the lower end of the score range over the years, with the 25th percentile rising from 590 in 2007 to 660 in 2023. This indicates that while fewer applicants are submitting scores, those who do tend to have higher qualifications. The upper quartile scores have also seen an upward trend, suggesting that competitive applicants are maintaining or improving their achievements.

Interestingly, the number of submissions has fluctuated, with the highest number of SAT submissions recorded in 2009 at 1,374, compared to just 441 in 2023. This stark reduction suggests a potential shift in how prospective students view standardized testing in relation to their college applications.

Overall, American University seems to be experiencing a transformation in its admissions landscape, aligning with national trends toward a more holistic evaluation of students that places less emphasis on standardized testing. This adaptation may not only reflect changing societal norms but also the university's commitment to fostering a diverse and qualified student body.

Analysis of Student Demographics at American University in 2023

The data from American University for the academic year 2023 reveals significant insights into the student population's composition. The total number of undergraduate new students stands at 1,759, with a notable gender distribution showing that 32.8% are male and 67.2% are female. This trend continues among undergraduate continuing students, where males constitute 36.8% and females 63.2%, indicating a higher enrollment of female students across both categories.

In contrast, the number of undergraduate transfer students is minimal, with only 15 individuals, where the male representation is 26.7% compared to 73.3% female, further emphasizing the gender disparity in enrollment. Graduate students also reflect a similar trend, with a total of 5,968, comprising 37.4% males and 62.6% females.

The racial and ethnic breakdown of the students highlights an essential aspect of diversity. Among the undergraduate new students, the white population accounts for 61.3% (1,077 individuals), while undergraduates continuing students show a substantial white demographic as well, totaling 3,207. The presence of other ethnic groups, such as Asian, Latinx, and African American, although not detailed in numbers here, indicates a growing diversity that American University continues to foster.

This demographic data aligns with national trends observed in higher education, where female students increasingly outnumber male students, reflecting broader social changes. As universities strive for inclusivity, it is crucial to consider these trends in recruitment and support services to ensure a well-rounded educational environment that promotes diversity across all spectrums.

Age Composition of Students at American University in 2023

The age composition data for American University in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the demographic profile of its student body. A significant majority of undergraduates fall within the 18-21 age range, with a staggering 80% of undergraduates being aged 18-21. This aligns with the traditional college demographic, indicating that the university attracts a youthful population, likely due to its emphasis on undergraduate programs.

Interestingly, as students transition to graduate studies, the age distribution shifts. The 25-29 age group accounts for approximately 62% of the graduate male population, showcasing that many students pursue further education after gaining some work experience. This trend reflects a broader national pattern where adult learners are increasingly returning to academia to enhance their skills and career prospects.

Moreover, the representation of students aged 30 and above remains modest, with less than 10% of the total student body falling into these categories. This limited presence might indicate potential barriers for older students, such as family commitments or financial considerations.

It's noteworthy that the gender distribution within these age groups shows a higher number of female undergraduates, especially in the 18-21 category, where female students outnumber males significantly. This trend of increased female enrollment in higher education has been observed nationwide, suggesting a positive shift towards gender parity in academic settings.

Overall, the data reflects a vibrant and diverse academic community, with a notable inclination towards younger students, while also highlighting the importance of lifelong learning as older demographics seek advanced degrees.

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at American University

The data on international student enrollment at American University reveals significant trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the proportion of international undergraduate students has fluctuated, peaking at 15.82% in 2020. This surge can be attributed to various factors, including the university's expanding global reach and the increasing attractiveness of U.S. education among international students. However, following 2020, there has been a noticeable decline in both the total number and percentage of international undergraduates, dropping to 10.58% in 2023.

In contrast, the graduate student body has not experienced the same level of growth. The percentage of international graduate students peaked at 16.01% in 2004 but has generally hovered around the 10-12% range in recent years, with a notable decline to 8.98% in 2022. This trend may reflect broader issues in the post-pandemic landscape, including travel restrictions, visa challenges, and changing perceptions of study abroad opportunities.

Overall, while American University has made strides in attracting international students, recent years indicate a need for strategic initiatives to bolster enrollment. The decline in international student numbers could have implications for the university's diversity, cultural exchange, and financial stability, given that international students often contribute significantly to tuition revenues. Addressing these challenges will be essential for the university's future growth and global engagement.

Here are some notable schools surrounding American University:

1. Georgetown University - Ranked 24th in the 2025 US News rankings, Georgetown University is a prestigious research university known for its strong programs in international relations, law, and public policy.

2. George Washington University - With a rank of 63, George Washington University offers a robust selection of programs and is located in the heart of Washington, D.C., providing students with excellent opportunities for internships and networking.

3. Howard University - Ranked 86th, Howard University is a historically black university that emphasizes the importance of leadership and community engagement among its diverse student body.

4. University of Maryland-College Park - This university ranks 44th and is known for its research initiatives and strong emphasis on STEM fields, making it a great option for those interested in technology and engineering.

5. Johns Hopkins University - Ranked 6th, Johns Hopkins is renowned for its research programs, particularly in medicine and public health, as well as its commitment to innovative education.

6. United States Naval Academy - This highly prestigious institution ranks 4th and is known for its rigorous academic and military training programs, preparing students for careers in the naval services.

7. Franklin and Marshall College - A liberal arts college ranked 31st, Franklin and Marshall offers a personalized education with a strong focus on student-faculty interaction.

These institutions provide a wide range of educational opportunities in various fields and are well-regarded for their academic excellence.

Analysis of Crime Rates at American University (2013-2023)

The crime data at American University over the past decade reveals a notable trend of declining rates of reported incidents. In 2013, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students was 15.17, which marked a significant decrease to just 4.71 by 2023. This decrease represents a reduction of approximately 69%, indicating a substantial improvement in campus safety and a possible enhancement in campus security measures.

Among the various types of offenses, arrests related to gun possession have consistently remained low, with no incidents reported on campus in recent years. Conversely, drug-related arrests fluctuated, peaking in 2015 but showing a decline in subsequent years. This may reflect broader societal changes in drug use and enforcement policies.

The figures for domestic violence and dating crimes are particularly noteworthy, as they show a concerning trend that requires continued attention. While the overall crime rate has dropped, it is crucial for the university to maintain vigilance in these areas, ensuring that students feel safe and supported.

In recent years, the overall trend suggests a commitment to fostering a safer environment, supported by lower crime rates. However, the university must continue to engage in proactive measures, including educational programs and support resources, to address the underlying issues contributing to violence and substance abuse.

As crime rates fluctuate in relation to societal trends, American University’s efforts to sustain and improve campus safety should remain a priority. For further information on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link.