Undergraduate Academic Accelerator Pathway (2-Term) - Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies

at Shorelight Group - American University USA

Many of the most profound challenges facing humanity relate to the environment, health, or the intersection of the two. Climate change and species extinction currently undermine the quality of life for many and threaten to compromise the fundamental, organic infrastructure that supports all life on earth. Infectious diseases like HIV and malaria remain a major cause of death in poorer countries, while chronic diseases, once most apparent in richer countries, are becoming increasingly prevalent around the world. Meanwhile, environmental toxins, air and water pollution, and soil degradation compromise the health and well-being of peoples everywhere. Not only do ecological issues have the potential to impact public health, but decisions made by communities and the private and public sectors—from transportation to agriculture—markedly influence ecosystem functions. The Environmental Sustainability and Global Health Thematic Area introduces students to the socio-political dynamics of global health and environmental affairs. Students explore the multiple causes and consequences of environmental harm and ill health and work to understand the mechanisms of governance best able to respond. Cutting across both issues are the fundamental inequalities between people, as well as between countries, that exacerbate the impacts of environmental and health problems and hamper identification and implementation of solutions. Ultimately, students develop the intellectual and applied tools needed to simultaneously work towards a safer, saner planetary condition and healthier populations.

Our MA in international economics prepares you to tackle the most pressing issues facing our global economy. You’ll become an expert in economic research methodology and a power-user of the state-of-the-art stats software commonly used in applied economics research. Our graduates go on to careers in government, financial institutions, multinational corporations, consulting firms, think tanks, multilateral institutions, and NGOs worldwide. 

Get some insight into how your mind works and improve your understanding of others. You’ll study clinical, social, personality, developmental, behavioral, and cognitive neuroscience, learning, and memory. Much of your learning will happen experientially, in the lab, or in the community. Contribute to departmental research. Internships at one of DC’s numerous mental health agencies is a short Metro ride away. 

Come gain a deeper understanding of the most vital issues underlying our global economy from domestic and international perspectives. You’ll study a variety of economic theories as well as political economy. Deepen your understanding with an internship at such leading economic institutions as the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and US Treasury, Labor, and Commerce Departments.

Explore the richness, impact, and dimensions of Jewish history, culture, and politics (American, Jewish, and Israeli) with our award-winning faculty. Enjoy a wide realm of Jewish cultural activities including lectures, performances, exhibits, and study abroad opportunities. Intern at the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, on Capitol Hill, or at one of the many Jewish organizations headquartered in the nation’s capital. 

Carve your path as an artist and scholar as you explore the history, theory, and performance traditions across diverse musical genres and forms. Our students perform internationally with our ensembles and intern with the most prestigious arts organizations of the nation’s capital, gaining world-class professional opportunities and contacts. Many of our private instructors are nationally recognized performers. 

The Master's in Computer Science (MS) will give you an edge in this dynamic, growing field. You will build a solid foundation in computer science with our core curriculum, and can customize your degree to fit your career goals by choosing one of three tracks of specialization: applied computer science, game and computational media, or data science. Students can further personalize their degrees by choosing to pursue research and a traditional master’s thesis, or a combination of research and an internship.

Combine business and STEM courses to develop an analytical skill set for the modern business world. Learn from top-credentialed faculty interested in your success. Specialize in accounting, analytics, entrepreneurship, finance, information systems and technology, international business, management, or marketing. Gain real-world experience by solving problems for local businesses or interning at DC’s many financial institutions, consulting firms, and policy institutes.

The public health bachelor of science degree is an interdisciplinary program that focuses on the scientific dimensions of health. The 58 credit hour BS is the degree of choice for someone who is interested in studying infectious and chronic diseases, environmental health, and epidemiology.

Graduates will be trained to work in public health research, at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), developing vaccination protocols, or in a similar environment. Graduates will also be well positioned to continue their education in a number of different health areas, such as allied health, public health, or medicine.

The American Studies program at American University examines American institutions, cultures, and society, while also inviting students to engage in community research and service in Washington DC and the metropolitan area.

American Studies at American University is interdisciplinary. That means our program gives students the freedom to take core classes in American Studies as well as electives in history, literature, cultural studies, politics, and the social sciences.