American University of Paris

American University of Paris Overview

The American University of Paris (AUP) stands as a prominent, private, and accredited liberal arts institution in the heart of Paris, France. With its establishment dating back to 1962, AUP represents one of the oldest American universities on the European continent and the first of its kind in France. Situated strategically in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, the university campus spans across seven buildings, offering a central location near iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, and the Seine.

AUP maintains English as its primary language of instruction, although students are required to demonstrate proficiency in French before completing their studies. The institution prides itself on hosting a diverse student body of over 1,100 individuals representing more than 100 nationalities, with an average student-to-faculty ratio of thirteen to one. The faculty body reflects a rich tapestry of 21 nationalities, with 71% holding doctoral degrees and almost 70% possessing proficiency in three or more languages.

Initially founded as the American College in Paris (ACP) by Dr. Lloyd DeLamater, a U.S. Foreign Service officer, AUP began as a two-year junior college situated within the American Church in Paris. Over time, ACP evolved, expanding into a four-year, degree-granting college in 1978, later renaming itself as The American University of Paris in 1988. Under the direction of Dr. DeLamater and his wife, Marie DeLamater, the institution developed a robust Cultural Program, fostering student engagement through various cultural experiences and academic explorations. Notably, AUP continues to organize study trips, upholding the original intent of the Cultural Program.

Demonstrating its commitment to a globally conscious education, AUP extends its offerings beyond the undergraduate level, incorporating master's programs into its curriculum in 2006. The university has recently expanded its campus to include the Quai d’Orsay Learning Commons, among other buildings, further solidifying its presence in the dynamic landscape of Paris.

With a legacy spanning 60 years, AUP remains dedicated to providing students a transformative educational experience that transcends borders and disciplines. Emphasizing its commitment to academic excellence and global engagement, AUP fosters an environment that encourages critical thinking and ethical responsibility, shaping students into responsible global citizens. The institution's core values center on academic rigor, global citizenship, and the cultivation of an inclusive, multicultural learning environment, guiding students to navigate diverse cultural landscapes with compassion and excellence.

The American University of Paris (AUP) boasts multiple accreditations and authorizations, rendering it a reputable and globally recognized educational institution. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, AUP operates as a non-profit establishment in the state of Delaware, holding a 501(c)(3) status in the United States. The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, all of which are accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and authorized by the State of Delaware. Additionally, AUP's status as an "établissement privé d'enseignement supérieur libre" is recognized by the Rectorat de Paris, solidifying its position in the realm of French higher education. Furthermore, AUP degrees are acknowledged by the Ministries of Higher Education in Norway and Turkey.

AUP's academic framework revolves around its distinctive Global Liberal Arts Core Curriculum (GLACC), which serves as the foundation for its undergraduate programs. The university boasts a comprehensive selection of majors and minors, encompassing various fields such as Art History, Environmental Science, and Gender Studies, among others. Comprising eight academic departments, AUP provides students with the option to tailor their education through the Self-Designed Major program.

At the graduate level, AUP offers seven distinct programs, each catering to specific tracks and areas of specialization, including International Affairs, International Management, Human Rights, and more. The university's commitment to student advancement is underscored by its comprehensive financial aid and scholarship offerings, amounting to over 4 million euros annually. Moreover, AUP's Global Professional Skills Program equips students with essential career-focused skills and encourages personal development through various workshops and coaching sessions.

Emphasizing the significance of cultural exploration, AUP's Cultural Program enables students to partake in faculty-led study trips and diverse cultural excursions, fostering a holistic learning experience. As the university looks ahead, its strategic plan, "Navigating 21st-Century Pathways," prioritizes community engagement, curriculum development, campus enhancement, effective communication, and continuous improvement, all of which contribute to AUP's vision of global education and cultural fluency. Furthermore, AUP facilitates study-abroad opportunities for students, fostering an environment conducive to global exposure and cross-cultural learning experiences.

AUP maintains a strong commitment to fostering a vibrant student life, evident through its comprehensive athletics program, diverse student organizations, and engaging student-run media productions. Notably, the university's commitment to the arts is reflected through the Fine Arts Gallery and the Monttessuy Center for the Arts, serving as creative hubs for students to explore and express their artistic endeavors. AUP's alumni network stands as a testament to the institution's impact, with over 20,000 alumni thriving in various fields and industries globally.