Earnings Distribution
How American University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| American University | $65,919 | $84,372 | +28% |
| Duke University | $213,539 | $190,118 | -11% |
| Georgetown University | $130,394 | $142,966 | +10% |
| University of Florida | $106,227 | $125,265 | +18% |
| George Washington University | $90,624 | $102,646 | +13% |
Compare to Similar Programs in District of Columbia
Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies masters's programs at peer institutions in District of Columbia (4 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 American UniversityWashington | $56,543 | $65,919 | $84,372 | — | — |
 Georgetown UniversityWashington | $65,081 | $130,394 | $142,966 | — | — |
 George Washington UniversityWashington | $64,990 | $90,624 | $102,646 | — | — |
| National Median | — | $79,830 | — | — | — |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with legal research and advanced professional studies graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At American University, approximately 13% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.