American University is a private institution located in Washington, D.C. AU is a private doctoral institution that is represented with students from all 50 states and 137 countries. The university was founded in 1893 by John Fletcher Hurst, when it was chartered by Congress. In addition to the institution’s location in the nation’s capital, the university has many connections to government and federal programs for its students. In the past 120 years, the university has grown immensely, constructing a program international service and more creative arts programs for students. As of the present, the student-to-faculty ratio is 12:1, with and average class size of 23.6 students. American University is known for its programs in human rights and international law, public policy, and international service. The university’s student count is just under 13,000 students, split between undergraduate, graduate, and law students. American University was ranked #71 in the U.S. News & World Report America’s Best Colleges in 2015. Additionally, the Princeton Review of Best Colleges ranked AU #4 for politically active students in 2014. The university is considered a top school for fostering Fulbright scholars and engaging students in internship opportunities. The university also has been ranked high for community service opportunities, overall student experience, and study abroad programs, in addition to being recognized for individual academic programs within the institution.