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How many schools does Washington University have, and what degree programs do they offer?
Washington University offers about 90 undergraduate programs in the following five schools: College of Arts & Sciences, Olin Business School, College of Art, College of Architecture, and the School of Engineering. Please click here for information about our undergraduate programs.
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How do I decide which undergraduate college or school at Washington University would be best for me?
You should choose the college or school that offers the subjects of strongest interest at the time you apply for admission. Because of Washington University’s flexible curriculum, you will always have the option of changing your mind about your interests as a current Washington University student, including requesting to move to another undergraduate school at Washington U.
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When do I choose a major?
Typically, students choose a major area of study by the end of the sophomore (second) year.
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Can I double major?
Yes, students can pursue more than one major and/or minor. This is so easy to do at Washington University that among seniors who graduated last May, approximately 65 percent earned a major and a minor, or more than one major during their four years at Washington University.
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How easy will it be for me to change my major?
At Washington University, we help students choose their own adventure. With 90 programs and 1,500 courses each year, students will find a wide range of academic areas to explore. If you decide on a major and later change your mind, you can change your majors—even change academic divisions—easily.
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If I apply to one of the colleges now and change my mind once I enroll, is it hard to switch?
Washington University is where you want to be when you change your mind! We encourage our students to change divisions if their interests change.
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What do the Combined Studies programs entail?
One of the great benefits of a Washington University education is that students may pursue academic interests in more than one of our schools. Many of our students take courses in more than one school of the University. Others pursue two majors or a major in one school and a minor in the same school or another. Some students will actually choose to pursue two undergraduate degrees simultaneously, which can take more than four years. We encourage students to pursue all their academic interests. If you are admitted to the University, we would like to let your freshman advisor know about your various areas of academic interest so that he or she can provide the best guidance to you as you pursue your studies.
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Is Washington University as flexible as it sounds?
Yes, it is. Approximately 60 percent of our students will complete something besides a single degree with one major in four years. We think we have the best academic environment for undergraduate students. For serious students interested in the rigors of cross-disciplinary work, our Combined Studies programs offer challenging opportunities. If you want to combine engineering with art, you may do so. If you want to go on to international business and strengthen your program with a major in a foreign language, this is the place for you. Washington University has much to offer. Tell us what you are interested in, and we’ll help you make it happen.
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What type of academic assistance is available? Is there ever a cost?
At Washington University, you will have academic advisors who will help guide you along the academic path you choose. You’ll also work with professors in one-on-one independent study, conferences during office hours, review sessions, or on research projects. In addition to faculty who make a point of being approachable and accessible, student peers and staff, including those in The Career Center, can also provide supportive, individual advising. There is no additional cost for these services.
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What should I expect to experience in the academic adjustment from high school to college?
Washington University students can expect to meet others who are also passionate about learning, ready for an academic challenge, want to pursue more than one interest, are eager to meet new people from all over the nation and world, and who want to find out how others think and live. Our students are ready to explore, learn, work hard, and be challenged. The University offers numerous resources to ensure a smooth transition and academic success.
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What is the average academic load for a semester?
Washington University’s academic year consists of a fall semester and spring semester. Most students enroll in an average of five classes each semester. Summer school is available for students who also choose to take classes during the summer.
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What is the first-year curriculum? What courses are required?
At Washington University, we are committed to making your freshman experience an extraordinary one. Your first-year curriculum will typically include interdisciplinary courses, linked courses, courses designed to help you hone your communications skills, and courses that emphasize field study and even an international experience. We want our students to work with his or her advisor and build each year’s curriculum on the unique learning opportunities we offer, starting with that important first year. First-year students generally take no more than five courses in each semester, and it is not unusual to begin your college career with a four-course semester (and still be able to graduate in four years). All first-year students are required to take one semester of Writing 1, our freshman writing course.
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Will I be taught by professors or graduate students?
Nearly all courses at Washington University—graduate and undergraduate—are taught by faculty members.
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Are most professors approachable and receptive to requests for assistance?
Certainly! Washington University professors make a point of being approachable and accessible both inside and outside the classroom. Our professors are dedicated to using their knowledge and skills to fuel your enthusiasm, teach you to think for yourself, and spark the learning you’ll need to be successful. The professors who will teach you are leaders in their fields, engaged in research and scholarly activity and constantly challenging commonly held practices and beliefs. They perform research to serve society, write definitive books, create landmark works of art, and win major awards, such as the Nobel Prize. And they’re all accessible to you—as an undergraduate. You’ll benefit from the latest information as they bring the excitement of their own research into your classes.
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Can I graduate early?
Yes, for example you can graduate early if you receive credit for multiple AP exams or other college courses, or take summer school courses to advance. Nearly all students, though, elect to take a full four-year program. Our students often enter the University with AP credits but use that added flexibility to pursue multiple majors and/or minors.
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Do student-athletes receive any special class scheduling considerations?
Student-athletes at Washington University typically do not require special scheduling of their classes. Our athletes are not restricted from taking classes or majors because of practices or games. The coaches schedule practice around the class schedules of their student-athletes. Our professors are also eager to work with student-athletes and coaches to accommodate the occasional conflicts that might occur with out-of-town games.
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How are the workload and stress levels at Washington University?
When you visit Washington University, you should ask this question of our students. They will most likely tell you that students here are ready for a challenging academic curriculum, but they also clearly have time for fun. Many would also say the combination of academic excellence and supportive atmosphere at Washington University is what makes us different and helps our students be successful. Competition at Washington University is both friendly and supportive, not at all cut-throat.
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Does Washington University accept credit from Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate examinations?
Depending on the subject, a score of 4 or 5 on the AP exams or a score of 5 or better on the higher-level IB exams may result in advanced placement in an appropriate subject at Washington University, and may result in credit being awarded. Credit will not be given for scores of 3 or lower on the AP exams, 4 or lower on the higher-level IB exams, or any score on the standard-level IB exams. Follow this link for a full online listing of AP scores accepted in the College of Arts & Sciences. Please Note: The maximum number of credit units accepted toward a Bachelor’s degree in Arts & Sciences or Architecture earned through Advanced Placement awards is 15. The College of Art students (Bachelor of Fine Arts) are awarded all credit that they earn. The maximum number of credit units accepted toward a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree earned through Advanced Placement awards is 30. Follow this link for a full online listing of AP scores accepted in the School of Engineering.
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Are internships, cooperative education, and study abroad available?
Absolutely. Internships, cooperative education programs, and study abroad programs are all available at Washington University. Putting principles and theories to work adds a whole new dimension to your undergraduate education. Washington University values this kind of learning, and that’s why we offer a substantial range of internships and cooperative education programs at companies and nonprofit organizations throughout the world. Students can participate in a meaningful experience related to their academic program that brings classroom learning to life, offering a “reality-check” for career intentions. We encourage all our undergraduate students to participate in at least one internship or co-op experience. Students can combine an internship or co-op job with study abroad in an international internship. Washington University has study abroad programs in more than 25 different countries and six of the seven continents. There are summer, semester, and yearlong programs available.
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What services are available to assist graduates in finding a job after graduation?
The Career Center at Washington University works very closely with our students, starting in freshman year when you’ll meet your advisor in The Career Center.
Services offered by our on-campus career centers include:
- Interviews with major local, national, and international organizations that recruit on campus
- Career advising Assistance with finding internships and co-op jobs, as well as summer, part-time, and full-time employment
- Workshops and seminars on resume writing, career fields, networking, and interviewing techniques, including videotaped mock interviews
- A career resources library
- Listing of full-time, part-time, and summer jobs accessible through a college listing service, or via students’ e-mail accounts
- Access to Career Connections, a University-wide computerized network of alumni worldwide who have volunteered to talk with current students about careers, companies, etc.
- Many alumni who own or manage businesses and organizations are willing to help students learn more about their chosen career paths. Our faculty members and advisors also serve as great resources for finding jobs after graduation and/or for recommendations about graduate school programs.
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How quickly do Washington University graduates find jobs?
We encourage Washington University students to use The Career Center as early as freshman year. Graduates can readily find jobs once they begin their search.
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Does Washington University have any programs for people with disabilities?
Disability Resources at Cornerstone (DR) helps students take advantage of all programs, activities, and opportunities that our University offers. Students with disabilities are encouraged to discuss course requirements with their instructors and advisors to develop strategies for success. They may wish to tap the expertise and resources of DR to assist in this process. If you are planning to visit Washington University and have special needs or would like to meet with the DR Coordinator, please contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions campus visit coordinators at (800) 638-0700 or (314) 935-6000.
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Can undergraduates get involved in research?
Absolutely. More than 60 percent of Washington University undergraduates get involved in research. Participating in research is a great way to expand your learning experience, and it’s not restricted to science. Research opportunities in all academic areas are available as early as the freshman year. Washington University offers undergraduate students the opportunity to work with out Office of Undergraduate Research to foster their involvement in research and even sponsors an Undergraduate Research Symposium each semester and publishes an Undergraduate Research Digest. You can learn more about our Office of Undergraduate Research here http://ur.wustl.edu/.
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