Is George Washington University or American University better for political science?

George Washington University has the edge for political science. Its location in Foggy Bottom puts you much closer to the White House, State Department, World Bank, and Capitol-area opportunities, and that day-to-day proximity matters a lot for students trying to build internships and networks while in school.

GW’s political science and Elliott School ecosystem tends to be especially strong for students interested in government, public policy, international affairs, and policy-adjacent careers. Being downtown makes it easier to take on part-time internships during the semester without long commutes, which is a real advantage if you want hands-on political experience early.

American University is still a very credible option, especially because its School of Public Affairs has a strong reputation and the campus culture is deeply political. A lot of students there are highly engaged in advocacy, campaigns, public service, and issue-based work, so the environment can feel especially mission-driven and discussion-heavy.

The biggest practical difference is often access and pace. At GW, D.C. feels integrated into your weekly routine in a more immediate way, while American’s Tenleytown location is a bit more removed from the central government corridor. That does not block opportunities, but it can make semester internships slightly less seamless.

Socially and academically, GW can feel more urban, independent, and professionally oriented, whereas American often feels more like a traditional campus with a politically active student body. For political science specifically, especially with your interest in government plus internship experience, GW is the one I’d place first.