How does Howard compare to American University for political science?

For political science, both Howard and American can work very well, but they serve somewhat different students. Howard stands out if you want a politically engaged campus culture rooted in Black intellectual life, social justice, and leadership development, while still having strong access to Washington internships. American is often especially appealing for students who want a campus that is tightly oriented around policy, government, and international affairs, with a lot of classmates aiming for similar careers.

Howard can be a strong fit if you want your political science experience to feel connected to community impact, civil rights, public service, and the historical role of Black institutions in American politics. Its location in DC still gives you access to Capitol Hill, federal agencies, nonprofits, and advocacy groups, but the campus identity is more distinct and mission-driven than at many other DC schools. For some students, that creates a more meaningful and supportive environment, especially if they want professors and peers who see politics not just as a career path but as lived experience.

American may suit you more if you want a political science program embedded in a campus where policy careers are everywhere. AU students often pursue internships during the semester, and the university has a very established culture around government, think tanks, NGOs, campaigns, and public affairs. In classes, that can translate into a more overtly pre-professional atmosphere, with lots of students talking about internships, issue areas, and Washington networking from early on.

On academics, both offer solid political science coursework, but the feel can differ. At Howard, the experience may feel more personal, historically grounded, and shaped by questions of equity, race, democracy, and leadership. At American, you may find broader day-to-day overlap with public policy and international affairs students, which can be useful if your interests lean toward federal policy, diplomacy, or the policy analysis side of government work.

For support, the answer depends on what kind you mean. Howard can offer a stronger sense of identity, purpose, and community for many students. American often offers a very direct pipeline feel for internships and policy exposure. If your priority is a campus where political science is tied to tradition, activism, and leadership in Black public life, Howard has a distinctive edge. If you want an environment where the machinery of DC policy careers is especially built into student life, American may feel more immediately aligned.