American University, Research university in Spring Valley, Washington, D.C., United States.

American University is a private research university whose 90-acre main campus lies on Ward Circle in the Spring Valley and Tenleytown neighborhoods of Northwest Washington, D.C. Its grounds include a white stone building with a six-column Ionic portico and pediment inscribed "COLLEGE OF HISTORY", and a curved light gray stone wall bearing the incised capital letters "THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY" above horizontal moldings.

The university received its federal charter in 1893 through an act of Congress and first opened graduate programs starting in 1914. It began offering undergraduate degrees only in 1925, expanding its educational offerings to all academic levels.

The university's name comes from its 1893 federal charter as a national Methodist institution in the capital, and its seal and "THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY" wall lettering mark the Ward Circle entrance. Its School of International Service, founded in 1958, is among the largest in the United States, and the Peace Corps ranks it second among mid-sized universities for volunteers. Presidents Kennedy, Obama and Clinton have spoken at commencements here.

First-year and second-year students receive guaranteed housing in one of the residences, which are designed as suites with shared common areas. The residence halls sit within walking distance of the lecture buildings and libraries, keeping daily routes around campus short.

The institution ranks among the top three schools supplying graduates to the State Department, drawing many students interested in diplomacy. It also reached carbon neutrality among the first universities nationwide, setting a benchmark in environmental responsibility.