Graduate Advanced Master Accelerator Pathway (1-Term) - Master of Arts in International Economics

at Shorelight Group - American University USA

If you want to combine your studies in journalism, film and media arts, or public relations and strategic communication with a concentration in French, German, Russian, or Spanish, the bachelor of arts in Foreign Language and Communication Media may be just what you're seeking.

This interdisciplinary degree, offered jointly by the School of Communication and the Department of World Languages and Cultures in the College of Arts and Sciences, allows you to learn from world-class faculty members whose cutting-edge research activities and professional engagements play key roles in global policy development. Foreign Language and Communication Media students come from across the country and around the world, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience that further enrich your learning experience.

There is no better place to learn how to report the news than in the nation's capital, where news is made every minute of every day. At American University School of Communication, students regularly report on Capitol Hill, the DC government, federal agencies, and the policies forged here that have impact around the world. You'll gain valuable experience and earn bylines and credits through internships at major national and international news outlets including The Washington Post, USA TODAY, Politico, NBC4, and National Public Radio.

Our journalism program helps you hone your skills with courses in various forms of writing, advanced reporting, digital media, journalism ethics, and communication law as you learn from the School of Communication's richly experienced faculty. Our students take advantage of the most advanced video, audio, and film equipment in our Media Innovation Lab as they gain confidence being behind and in front of the camera. You'll graduate with strong writing and reporting abilities, an impressive multimedia portfolio, and connections throughout the industry that will help you build a successful career in journalism.

The Foreign Policy and National Security Thematic Area features course offerings on US foreign policy, war and diplomacy, and both national and global security concerns. The gateway course for this Thematic Area is Analysis of US Foreign Policy SISU 230, which aims to provide students with an understanding of broad historical trends and traditions in US foreign policy; the ability to assess the main theoretical perspectives relevant to the field of US foreign policy; the ability to identify the key actors, institutions, and political processes involved in the making of US foreign policy; the capacity to analyze selected contemporary policy issues; and an opportunity to demonstrate research, analytical, writing, and presentation skills.

Public Relations. It's a field built on ideas and images, persuasion and information, strategy and tactics. From studios promoting films to companies burnishing their images to advocates promoting social causes, public relations is at the heart of our economy, society, and politics. No policy or product can succeed without a smart message targeted to the right audience in creative and innovative ways. The ability to communicate strategically is what our Public Relations and Strategic Communication program is all about.

Our goal is to educate you not only in the most recent trends, but in the type of thinking that will set you apart from your peers. Through courses, internships, and hands-on work, we empower you with the strategic tools and insights that rival what professionals learn after years of experience.

Researching or doing a project on a political issue or environmental cause? We'll send you out to speak with key influencers so that you can weave that knowledge into your coursework. You may even have a chance to work with real-life clients. Some of the biggest names in Washington, DC from speechwriters to high-level professionals are guest lecturers in our classes. PR firms, international organizations, health care companies, congressional offices and advocacy groups all welcome our students as interns. You'll build a network of professionals that will enhance your learning and accelerate your career.

The Arabic Program offers skill level courses, ranging from the elementary to the advanced levels, and topics courses introducing the students to key themes, texts, and figures of the modern and premodern Arab world. Our mission is to help students attain proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking the Arabic language. At the same time, since language reflects culture, we work with our students toward a higher degree of cultural proficiency. We achieve our goals through activities introducing the students to culturally authentic materials and by using a variety of resources, tools, and technologies. Arabic communication between instructor and students is a regular feature in our classes. While the primary focus in our courses is on Modern Standard Arabic, we integrate colloquial Arabic (Levantine or Egyptian dialect) into our language instruction at the skill level courses, in order to help our students develop a broader range of conversational skills.

Get the tools you need to tackle modern challenges in criminal justice and criminology, terrorism and homeland security, and justice and law. Our faculty comprise some of the nation’s foremost experts. Learn from policymakers who are facing the most pressing security concerns. Deepen your understanding with an internship at the FBI, US Customs, Secret Service, or Department of Homeland Security.

The BS in statistics features two tracks: data science and mathematical statistics. The former is for students with a strong interest in the field of application, who want to gain the skills to collect, analyze and use data to drive decisions. The latter is for those with an interest in the theory of statistical methods. 

The Arabic Program offers skill level courses, ranging from the elementary to the advanced levels, and topics courses introducing the students to key themes, texts, and figures of the modern and premodern Arab world. Our mission is to help students attain proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking the Arabic language. At the same time, since language reflects culture, we work with our students toward a higher degree of cultural proficiency. We achieve our goals through activities introducing the students to culturally authentic materials and by using a variety of resources, tools, and technologies. Arabic communication between instructor and students is a regular feature in our classes. While the primary focus in our courses is on Modern Standard Arabic, we integrate colloquial Arabic (Levantine or Egyptian dialect) into our language instruction at the skill level courses, in order to help our students develop a broader range of conversational skills.

Spanish is the second-most popular language in the world, and in an increasingly interconnected global society, the study of languages and culture is of vital importance. With a major in Spanish studies, you’ll develop translingual fluency and social awareness through courses on literature, language, and more. AU Abroad programs will help enhance your language skills and immerse you in culture. 

If you’re interested in how power works and how societies are governed, DC is the place to be. Our program provides a foundation in American politics, comparative politics, and political theory. AU is one of the nation’s most politically-active campuses. A short Metro ride away are internships with organizations like the Brookings Institution, Human Rights Campaign, and Emily’s List.