To begin, it is important to consult American University’s Cost of Attendance (COA) for 2024-2025. This important resource details annualized direct costs (tuition and student fees) and indirect costs (estimates for living expenses). Please be mindful that SPA’s master’s degrees, most often, require two years to complete.
The 2024-2025 COA table details direct and indirect costs in the first column for students considering full-time enrollment (9 credit hours)* and, the second column details direct and indirect costs for half-time enrollment (6 credit hours).
*All international students (F-1/J-1 visa holders) will be required to maintain full-time enrollment.
A key advantage of pursuing an SPA master’s degree is the flexibility offered to all domestic SPA students to flex their enrollments each semester so they can take full advantage of the articulation between classroom learning (classes only meet one day a week in the evenings) and application in the workplace in light of the incredibly robust job market in the greater Washington, D.C. region. This advantage results in exceptional professional outcomes for every SPA master’s degree as our students transform into leaders who make meaningful contributions in all sectors of employment.
SPA’s valued, admitted international students should also proactively consult the School of Public Affairs Graduate Programs Cost Guide. This Guide details the necessary identification and financial documentation required after they pay the nonrefundable enrollment deposit to secure an I-20 from American University in advance of scheduling and, ideally, securing a visa to join the SPA graduate student community. Please know that the SPA graduate admissions team will support you post-admission through the immigration process. Additional information is available by consulting American University’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS).
