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STEP Course Information

Some of the courses that have been offered in the past are:

  • Anthropology
  • Art (Studio Experience, Artist Perspective, Drawing)
  • Calculus
  • Cross-Cultural Communications
  • Finite Math
  • Macroeconomics
  • Statistics
  • World Politics
  • Strategies of Health Management 
  • Philosophy 

Frequently Asked Questions

How many courses am I required to take during the summer?

  • Students will complete two courses during the summer program. Many students take a mathematics course, depending on availability and placement scores. If not enrolled in a math course the student will be enrolled in another course that also counts toward university core, graduation, and possible major requirements. Students will work with their academic advisor to register for courses.

What is the College Writing Seminar?

  • STEP students will also take a mandatory college writing seminar. This class is a crucial bridge between high school and college-level writing. It is a supplement to the two-course College Writing sequence that all incoming freshmen students at AU must take in order to meet the university writing requirements.

How many students are enrolled in STEP? 

  • The typical size of a STEP cohort between 30 and 40 students 

How do I enroll in STEP? 

  • Complete the online STEP registration form, which can be found on STEP webpage. If there are any questions or issues that arise, you can contact CDI at cdi@american.edu. 

Can I work during STEP? 

  • We strongly suggest students not to work during STEP. The program is academic in nature and demands much attention. Taking on more commitments would present a challenge for students. Over the course of the program students will be connected to potential on-campus employers for the school year. 

How much does it cost to do STEP? 

  • Tuition for summer classes (up to 3 credits), books, housing, meal plan (meal swipes & Eagle Bucks), and access to resources (tutoring, support services, AU facilities such as gym, library/academic, rec fit, university sponsored extracurricular activities) are all covered by the program.  

  • Students are responsible for paying for some meals, transportation (if not a STEP sponsored event), and personal expenses.  

  • Students are encouraged to resolve any outstanding issues with a financial aid counselor before arriving at AU for STEP. Email facounselor@american.edu with any questions that you may have about the financial aid process.