Discover American International College

American International College's campus as the leaves change color during fall

From Vision to Visionary

Who gets to be successful—and how do they access the resources to do so? These questions compelled our founders to conceive of a novel, boundary-breaking school at a time when the American dream began to build momentum and gain definition.

American International College opened our doors in 1885 to create a path toward prosperity for the immigrant populations living in our region and soon for women, leading our local contemporaries in providing an avenue to higher education. More than a mark on a timeline, this significance continues to be lived by our school, guiding the programs we offer, the students we serve, and the bonds we strengthen.

Outside Pouch Hall on American International College's campus

Who Is AIC?

Today, we reflect the diversity of the city we’ve called home for over a century—as well as the cultural vibrancy of our world. Our graduates learn to establish their place in it through a rigorous, relevant education that prepares them to confront all types of challenges.

96%

Of polled 2023 graduates are employed or continuing their education within one year of graduation.

A+

For Diversity from NICHE among “Most Diverse Colleges in America.”

30+

Undergraduate and 25+ graduate programs that connect students with our area’s leading industries.

Mission and Vision

Mission Statement

American International College provides access to a holistic education in an inclusive environment that propels a diverse community of learners to personal growth and professional success.

Vision Statement

American International College will be a New England college of choice for students seeking a sense of belonging, innovative education, and profound student experiences.

Our Core Values

A private, co-educational, four-year institution with a heritage tied to Western Massachusetts, AIC welcomes everyone to define their ambitions through their passions and embrace their full identity without question.

Our evolving mission continues to be realized through our five core values: Access, Opportunity, Diversity, Community, and Belonging.

Students walk through American International College's campus quad en route to the School of Business, Arts, and Sciences

Access

A familiar theme emerges throughout all chapters of AIC’s story: Everyone has the right to an enriching education that gives them a firm economic foothold. Discover how this mission shapes who we are and the encouragement we provide to each student.

Our Community and History Admissions and Tuition Scholarships

American International College's undergraduate student speaker addresses the crowd at Commencement.

Opportunity

We demand clarity in an often-convoluted world, helping our students not only identify their personal and professional goals but also develop a road map straight toward them and beyond.

Majors and Degrees Academic Support Career Guidance

AIC students fold flags while marching in Springfield's Annual Puerto Rican Parade.

Diversity

AIC’s close-knit community embodies the diversity of our world as it is today, representing different backgrounds, identities, and perspectives while extending a space for everyone to discover their authentic selves.

Office of DEIB A Hispanic-Serving Institution

With the Portuguese and Swedish flags in the foreground, students learn more about campus organizations during AIC's semiannual Engagement Fair.

Community

Yellow Jackets collaborate in classrooms and labs, on our winning NCAA Division II teams, and with people and organizations across Western Massachusetts, getting inspired while inspiring others toward possibility.

Student Life Athletics

Members of an AIC student organization take a photo together at a campus fair

Belonging

We say that everyone has a home at AIC. Among a student body arriving from all corners of the globe, you’ll find an outlet for every interest, a way of learning that suits your life, and a legacy of alumni who’ve taken a similar journey.

Student Organizations International Students Online Programs Alumni

AIC student Swastik Chuke '25 sharing his experience over his four years at the College.

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What AIC Means to Our Students

Our diverse, accepting community has helped generations of Yellow Jackets grow as people and professionals.

What’s Unique About AIC?

Our defiance of the status quo delivers an education that equips you to blaze a trail of your own.

Optional Call to Action

At a campus symposium, senior students present their research findings to their peers.

Ready for the Real World

Rather than relying on memorization and recitation, the liberal arts paired with internships and community-focused learning produce professionals who can thoughtfully examine a problem from all sides—and in vastly different contexts—to create solutions that drive profound change.

A Nursing student stands near a manikin in American International College's state-of-the-art simulation lab.

Cutting-Edge Programs

We turn hiring trends into degrees that prepare our students for our region’s leading industries. At the same time, updated and diversified formats—online programs, seamless transfer partnerships, and, more recently, three-year bachelor’s degrees—ensure that opportunity remains open to all.

An AIC student converses with a faculty member in a common area on campus

Support and Mentorship

Small, discussion-led classes—with a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio for undergraduates and 8:1 for graduate students—result in an environment where everyone is eager to get to know you. Tailored support, through mentorship, advising, first-generation programming, and career guidance, lets you maximize your knowledge and the resources AIC provides.

American International College students take notes while sitting in a lecture hall

A Holistic Experience

Never boxed in, AIC students integrate their career aspirations, their curiosities, and their full selves, growing as leaders, innovators, and collaborators through all pursuits.

In a model classroom, AIC Education students engage with local middle schoolers

Serving Our Community

AIC students have a presence in schools, youth organizations, and at local events, and they assist in the delivery of services that benefit residents across our region.

Students and faculty walk on campus near the Theatre Arts building in late spring.

Our Location

Right at the center of Springfield, our 72-acre campus is home to 25 buildings in the Neo-Georgian tradition, providing both convenience for commuters and a more robust community connection.