George Washington University
Washington, DC
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About George Washington University
Experience D.C. at George Washington University, a federally-chartered research powerhouse.
George Washington University (GWU) is a dynamic private, federally-chartered research institution nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C. Known for its vibrant urban campus in Foggy Bottom, GWU stands as a prominent hub for political engagement, international affairs, and groundbreaking research. As an R1: Doctoral University with "Very High Research Activity," it offers an unparalleled environment for students eager to connect with the nation's capital, engage in high-impact scholarship, and contribute to global dialogues.
The university's roots stretch back to the vision of President George Washington, who advocated for a national university. Chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1821 as Columbian College, it was the first university founded under D.C.'s jurisdiction, fulfilling a profound national aspiration. Throughout its history, GWU has played a significant role in American life, from serving as a Union Army camp during the Civil War to hosting pivotal scientific conferences, including the announcement of the atom's splitting by Niels Bohr.
Academically, GWU offers an expansive array of 71 degree programs, attracting around 24,500 students annually. Its academic strengths are formidable, with the Elliott School of International Affairs consistently ranking among the world's elite programs. The university also boasts the oldest law school and the 11th-oldest medical school in D.C., along with pioneering schools in engineering, media, and public health. Students benefit from an engaging curriculum, cutting-edge research opportunities, and direct access to Washington, D.C.'s rich network of government agencies, international organizations, and cultural institutions.
The student experience at GWU is deeply intertwined with its D.C. location. Beyond the classroom, students are immersed in a city where history is made daily. The university's athletic teams, the George Washington Revolutionaries, compete in NCAA Division I, fostering a spirited campus community. GWU is also a significant feeder for the diplomatic corps, preparing future leaders to navigate complex global challenges. Choosing GWU means embracing a rigorous academic journey within an inspiring and influential urban setting.
Key Highlights
- ✦Chartered in 1821 by the U.S. Congress, making it the first university founded under Washington, D.C.'s jurisdiction and one of only six federally chartered universities.
- ✦Classified as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity" institution and joined the prestigious Association of American Universities in 2023.
- ✦The Elliott School of International Affairs ranks among the world's top programs, with its undergraduate program ranked 8th and graduate program 7th globally by Foreign Policy magazine.
- ✦Boasts a substantial $2.8 billion endowment (2024) and conducted $227 million in externally funded research in 2023–2024.
- ✦Its Law School is the oldest in the District of Columbia, and the School of Medicine and Health Sciences is the 11th-oldest medical school in the nation.
- ✦A significant feeder for the diplomatic corps, with over 1,100 alumni actively serving in the U.S. Foreign Service.
- ✦Home to groundbreaking research, including the development of the Big Bang theory by George Gamow in the 1930s-40s and the invention of the bazooka in 1942.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
11 notable schools within George Washington University
School of Media and Public Affairs (SMPA)
Pioneered the nation's first bachelor's degree in Political Communication, consistently ranked in the top 10 programs, and houses the Public Affairs Project for PBS's Planet Forward.
Corcoran School of the Arts and Design
One of the oldest arts education institutions in the U.S., housed in the historic Corcoran Gallery of Art, facing the White House.
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 (as of Jan 2018).
School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS)
Founded in 1824, it was the first medical school in Washington, D.C., and became a national spotlight in 1981 when President Ronald Reagan was treated there.
School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS)
Founded in 1884, it separated from Columbian College in 1962 and was where the bazooka was invented in 1942.
Elliott School of International Affairs (ESIA)
Founded in 1898, it is one of the world's most highly ranked schools of international relations, with its graduate program ranked 7th globally.
School of Nursing
Re-established in 2010 as the university's tenth academic institution, with a history of nursing education spanning over a century.
Law School
Established in 1826, it is the oldest law school in the District of Columbia, with Supreme Court Justices having served on its faculty.
Graduate School of Education and Human Development
Became a separate school in 1909 and evolved in 1994 to reflect its increased focus on graduate education.
College of Professional Studies (CPS)
Offers courses on the Foggy Bottom and Virginia campuses and includes the Graduate School of Political Management.
Milken Institute School of Public Health
Established in 1997 and renamed in 2014, it offers a wide array of public health degrees, including the world's first MPH/Physician Assistant program.
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