Oldest & Largest Living-Learning Community at AU
University College (UC)
University College is a one year experience for first-year students, and is open to all schools and majors who opt to live on campus and who are not already participating in another Living-Learning Community (LLC). The 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) that 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 strengthening your relationships with your peers and the larger AU community.
Joining AU's largest Living-Learning Community helps you make the most of your first year. Whether meeting with experts, collaborating socially or academically with peers, or visiting DC institutions, your Complex Problems professor and program leader connect 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.
Join University College
The UC/AU Cornerstone Reservation Form is now closed for the 2023-2024 academic year. If you are first-year attending AU in the Fall, please email universitycollege@american.edu to inquire about availability.
AU Cornerstone
The AU Cornerstone Program is an enriching opportunity to jump start your professional career or international education. It is apart of the University College Living-Learning Community. Cornerstone students choose either a credited internship or study abroad experience during 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.
Interest Form Now Open
Want to learn more about AU Compass? Ready to commit to AU Compass for 2024-2025? Complete this form to connect with our team.
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!
Join UC and Live in Black Affinity Housing
Students can reserve their spot in UC and live with other UC students in Black Affinity Housing. Participating 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.
To find more information about Roper Hall, the residence hall where Black Affinity Housing is located, use this link.
To find more information about Black Affinity Housing and UC, please head to the FAQ Page.
UC Builds Friendships
Grace Anderson, Class of 2021
They're some of my best friends at AU.
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.
"I've made friends with some people in my UC class and they're some of my best friends at AU." — Grace Anderson
UC Explores DC
Off-Campus Activites
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.
Residence Hall Classrooms
Newly renovated rooms and classrooms used exclusively by Living-Learning Community students
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 ConversationsExciting Courses
Explore the DC metro area guided by Faculty and Program Leaders
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 fieldConnections
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