University College

Living-Learning Community

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University College Program 4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW Washington, DC 20016 United States

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University College (UC)

University College is a one year experience forÌýfirst-year students, and is open to all schools and majorsÌýwho opt to live on campus and who are not already participating in another Living-Learning Community (LLC).ÌýThe program combines limitless opportunities in DC with the best elements of college life—meeting new people, living in a residence hall, studying with top-notch professors, and finding your passions.

In the Fall semester, you will take a shared Complex Problems seminar with students who live on your residence hall floor. You will attend events, participate in co-curriculars (social and/or academic events that are tied to your seminar)Ìýthat happen outside of the classroom, and learn about what DC and the AU community have to offer. In the Spring semester, you will continue to attend events hosted by the University College team, while also strengtheningÌýyour relationships with your peers and the larger AU community.

Joining AU'sÌýlargest Living-Learning Community helps you make the most of your first year. Whether meeting with experts,Ìýcollaborating socially or academically with peers, or visiting DC institutions, your Complex Problems professorÌýand program leaderÌýconnect classroom and residential experiences to the real world.

Immersive Learning Experiences

Living-Learning Communities (LLCs) are immersive learning experiences designed to bring students with common academic interests together for heightened intellectual and social success. LLCs assist students by placing them in close-knit living environments that support scholastic success, cultivate safe and supportive environments, encourage personal growth, and foster social responsibility. The ultimate goal is to help students mature into the best version of themselves, both personally and professionally, so they can become leaders at AU and beyond. Ìý

Join University College

The is now open for the 2024-2025Ìýacademic year. The regular reservation deadline was on Monday May 6, 2024. However, late reservations are welcome while spaces last! Students must deposit to AU to confirm their placement in UC. If you have questionsÌýemailÌýÌýto inquire.

Missed our webinars? to view a recording!

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AU Cornerstone

The AU Cornerstone ProgramÌýis an enriching opportunityÌýto jump start yourÌýprofessional career or international education. A part of the University College Living-Learning Community, Cornerstone students choose either a credited internship or study abroad experience in Madrid (SIS Scholars) in the Fall semester or GreeceÌýduring the Spring semester. Cornerstone students live and learn together in the first-year residence halls and participate in special programming that fosters a shared experience.

Missed our webinars? for a recording for Fall 2024!

AU CornerstoneÌý

UC Faculty and Students at the Fall 2022 Kickoff

Join University College

The registration form for Fall 2024 is now closed. Please contact universitycollege@american.edu for more information.Ìý

Admissions

Living and Learning at AU: University College

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Get to know University College, AU's largest living-learning community. This exceptional opportunity for first-year students combines the best residential and academic experiences!

Students can reserve their spot in UC and live with other UC students in Black Affinity Housing.ÌýParticipating in both UC and Black Affinity Housing gives students of all backgrounds and identities the opportunity to be a part of the University College living and learning experience, but in close proximity to other students who may share similar social, cultural, or academic interests. This opportunity is available on a first come, first served basis. Please e-mail universitycollege@american.edu with your interest after reserving your spot in the program.Ìý

To find more informationÌýabout Roper Hall, the residence hall where Black Affinity Housing is located, use this link.Ìý

To find more information about Black Affinity Housing and UC, please head to the FAQ Page.Ìý

UC Builds Friendships

Student Testimony

I can say confidently that I would not have the amazing friends that I have now.
UC builds community through small, intimate seminar classes. Students live together on the same floor in their residence hall and make close connections from the moment they arrive.
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You come into college meeting people from your cohort on move in day because you'll be living with them. I can say confidently that I would not have the amazing friends that I have now if I didn't do University College. - Cultures of Corruption

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UC Explores DC

Off-èßäÉçÇøapp Activites

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Seminar Facilitators and Faculty organize co-curricular activities, including excursions to DC. Students get exclusive tours of the White House, Capitol Building, Smithsonian Museums and more. And on the way, they learn their way around their new city's transportation system.

Oldest & Largest Living-Learning Community at AU

Residence Hall Classrooms

  • Newly renovated rooms and classrooms used exclusively by Living-Learning CommunityÌýstudents

  • Many UC courses are held in the residence halls — just steps away from your room

  • Participate in community events inspired by floor themes and develop a sense of belonging with your residence hall community

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Floor Themes Guide UC Events and Conversations

Exciting Courses

  • Explore the DC metro area guided by Faculty and Program LeadersÌý

  • Acquire critical thinking skills and examine diverse perspectives on societal challenges

  • Connect with faculty who can serve as a resource throughout your time at AU

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Complex Problems Seminars taught by faculty who are subject matter experts and at the top of their field

Connections

  • Connect classroom and community to the real world

  • "It was an awesome experience to take conversations out of class, and made me feel like a college student for the first time." — Former UC Student

  • Make friendships and connections that last