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Community of Scholars Program Details

The Community of Scholars program offers a unique hybrid experience that combines two weeks of in-person learning on American University’s campus with a final week of online, asynchronous instruction from home. During the two weeks on campus, students will attend engaging classes Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Afternoons will feature enriching activities, including visits to government organizations and agencies that connect classroom concepts to real-world applications.**

Students will stay in AU dorms and dine in campus facilities, giving them a taste of college life. Commuter students are also welcome and will receive lunch daily, along with the chance to participate in many evening activities.

After returning home, students will stay connected with their professor and peers through online, asynchronous learning. The final week will focus on completing a culminating paper or project, providing an opportunity to reflect on and apply what they’ve learned. This transformative program equips students with valuable academic, social, and professional skills, leaving them inspired and prepared to make a meaningful impact in their future studies and careers.

** ** Program activities, dates, and schedules are subject to change based on unforeseen circumstances or logistical considerations. We will notify participants of any significant updates or changes as soon as possible.

How to Apply: To enroll in the Community of Scholars program, visit the Community of Scholars website, click Apply Now, and follow the application directions. 

Student Acceptance and AU Account Set-Up: Once a student’s application is approved, a $300 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve their spot. After the deposit is received, AU sends detailed instructions for creating an AU user account. Students must create their accounts promptly to avoid delays in accessing their courses. Instructions for accessing courses via Canvas will be emailed in mid-May.

Application Deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply early to secure your spot. Be sure to submit your application by one of the following deadlines:

  • January 26, 2025 (Priority consideration for early applicants)
  • March 16, 2025 (Regular consideration deadline)
  • May 18, 2025 (Final deadline – limited spots may be available)

Questions: Please feel free to email the High School Summer Scholars team at communityofscholars@american.edu or by phone at (202) 885-2442.

 

Summer 2025

Applications for Summer 2025 are open.

Apply

Program Benefits

During this intensive summer program, students will:

  • Pursue your academic interests in International Relations
  • Earn three college credits
  • Explore international institutions in Washington, DC
  • Learn about international careers
  • Meet other students who are passionate about creating meaningful change in the world

Course Offerings

Students choose one of the following course options.

Difference, particularly cultural difference, is the source of many conflicts in international relations. This course will explore conceptual components and theories of conflict, culture, and conflict resolution—with a special focus on the role that culture plays in both starting and resolving conflicts. An in-depth examination of contemporary international conflicts will be used as illustrative case-studies. The class will then bridge the gap between interpersonal, group, and international conflicts by exploring strategies of conflict resolution and cross-cultural understanding.

In today’s hyper-connected world, misinformation and disinformation spread rapidly, impacting everything from international diplomacy to global health and finances. This course equips aspiring international leaders with the skills to detect, analyze, and respond to false information in the digital age. Students will explore how misinformation influences public opinion, shapes elections, and affects global relations. Students will learn how to develop a solid and empirically grounded understanding of the reach and impact of digital mis/disinformation. Using case studies, interactive simulations, and real-world models from organizations like the World Health Organization, students will learn to evaluate sources, identify bias, and verify claims with digital tools.

How does the U.S. government confront dictators, maintain allies, and protect the nation from international threats to national security? This course will introduce the major departments, agencies, and actors within the government involved in foreign policy and national security. It will explore how they operate in the new strategic environment by considering major threats and issues facing the United States today, from terrorists to rogue states to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The course will also address the conflicting goals, agendas, and trade-offs present in any foreign and national security policy. Debating the range of policy options, students will explore how the U.S. might best act to enhance U.S. national security and international position.

Tuition & Fees

Students are encouraged to seek out and apply independently for private scholarships that may be awarded by local organizations such as businesses, churches, and civic groups.

  • Nonrefundable deposit: $300, due two weeks after acceptance
  • Course tuition for three college credit hour course: $3,786
  • Room and program fees: $2,150, which includes 
    • Housing
    • Meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including catered meals
    • Transportation to and from external sites
    • Programmatic costs

NOTE: Course tuition and fees are due by June 1, 2025. For students accepted after June 1, 2025, the deposit, tuition, and fees must be paid in full.

  • Nonrefundable deposit: $300, due two weeks after acceptance
  • Course tuition for a three college credit hour course: $3,786
  • Program fees: $800, which includes
    • Lunch and catered meals
    • Transportation to and from external sites
    • Programmatic costs

NOTE: Course tuition and fees are due by June 1, 2025. For students accepted after June 1, 2025, the deposit, tuition, and fees must be paid in full.