George Washington University
Washington, DC
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About George Washington University
A vibrant D.C. research powerhouse, charting paths in diplomacy, policy, and innovation since 1821.
Nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C., George Washington University (GWU) stands as a dynamic, federally-chartered research institution with a rich legacy tied directly to the nation's capital. Established by Congressional charter in 1821, fulfilling President George Washington's vision for a national university, GWU offers an unparalleled living laboratory for students passionate about making a real-world impact. Its prime location places students at the epicenter of national and international affairs, with endless opportunities for internships, research, and engagement with global leaders.
GWU is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity," reflecting its commitment to groundbreaking discovery and intellectual inquiry across 71 diverse disciplines. With academic strengths spanning highly-ranked programs in international affairs, business, media, and public health, the university consistently attracts a diverse and ambitious student body. It boasts the oldest law school and medical school in the District of Columbia, alongside the esteemed Elliott School of International Affairs, consistently ranked among the best globally. The university's research endeavors are robust, with $227 million in externally funded research in 2023-2024.
Life at GWU is an immersive experience. The Foggy Bottom and Mount Vernon campuses pulse with energy, hosting a vibrant community of nearly 25,000 students. Beyond rigorous academics, students engage in numerous political events, cheer on the George Washington Revolutionaries in NCAA Division I sports, and benefit from a powerful alumni network deeply embedded in government and diplomacy – GWU is a significant feeder school for the U.S. Foreign Service. For those seeking an education that combines academic excellence with unparalleled access to policy, politics, and global issues, George Washington University offers an inspiring and transformative journey.
Key Highlights
- ✦A private, federally-chartered research university established by Congressional charter in 1821.
- ✦Classified as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity" institution.
- ✦Holds a $2.8 billion endowment as of 2024 and engaged in $227 million of externally funded research in 2023–2024.
- ✦Home to 24,500 students (11,148 undergraduates, 12,936 postgraduates) in 2025 across 71 degree programs.
- ✦The Elliott School of International Affairs is ranked 7th globally for graduate programs and 8th for undergraduate programs by Foreign Policy magazine.
- ✦One of the largest feeder schools for the diplomatic corps, with over 1,100 active alumni in the U.S. Foreign Service.
- ✦GW's Law School is the oldest in Washington, D.C., and its Medical School is the 11th-oldest in the nation and the first in the capital.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
11 notable schools within George Washington University
School of Media and Public Affairs
The first in the nation to offer a bachelor's degree in Political Communication, consistently ranked in the top 10 nationally.
Corcoran School of the Arts and Design
One of the oldest arts education institutions in the United States, housed in the historic Corcoran Gallery of Art.
School of Business
Established in 1928, its undergraduate business program was ranked 42nd nationally and its International Business program 9th by U.S. News & World Report in 2018.
School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Founded in 1824, it was the first school of medicine in Washington, D.C., and became a national spotlight during the Ronald Reagan assassination attempt.
School of Engineering and Applied Science
Founded in 1884, it separated from Columbian College in 1962 and developed the bazooka in 1942.
Elliott School of International Affairs
Founded in 1898, it is one of the world's most highly ranked schools of international relations, with its graduate program ranked 7th globally in 2015.
School of Nursing
Re-established in 2010, it offers MSN, DNP, and accelerated ABSN programs with a history of nursing education spanning over 100 years.
Law School
Established in 1826, it is the oldest law school in the District of Columbia, with Supreme Court Justices among its past faculty.
Graduate School of Education and Human Development
Became a separate school in 1909 as the Teachers' College, evolving in 1994 to focus on graduate education.
College of Professional Studies
Offers courses on Foggy Bottom and Virginia campuses, and includes the Graduate School of Political Management.
Milken Institute School of Public Health
Established in 1997, it offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral-level degrees with one of the most ethnically diverse student bodies among private schools of public health.
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