The University of America Foundation is a nonsectarian, private research university located in mixed Bogota , Colombia . Founded as a school of architecture in 1956, the school became an institution of interdisciplinary research and technology, American University emphasizes quality over size, concentrating on a core of academic disciplines with a solid reputation in engineering and applied sciences. "In 1952 the Ministry of Education licensed to initiating studies and work at the university and in 1956 granted the approval of educational and professional qualifications for schools of architecture and economics. In 1956, the university gives life and importance to the faculties of architecture, with an emphasis on urban planning and economy. Likewise, driving operation for the first time in Bogota of Industrial engineering, mechanical, petroleum and chemical industries."