56 American Colleges With Surrounding Cities Full of Career and Networking Potential

51. American University – Global Affairs & Policy in Washington, D.C.

American University offers a launchpad for students drawn to politics, diplomacy, journalism, and international relations. With embassies, global NGOs, think tanks, and media giants just minutes from campus, students dive into real-world policymaking through internships at places like the State Department, NPR, and the World Bank. The School of International Service and School of Public Affairs are nationally recognized, and the university's commitment to social justice, climate action, and civic engagement positions grads for influence. At AU, classrooms and capital corridors blur—making it a top destination for those who want their education to make an immediate impact.