 How many undergraduate 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 & Applied Science. |
| How do I decide which undergraduate college or school at Washington University would be best for me? |
You should start by choosing 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. |
| When do I choose a major? |
Typically, you would choose a major area of study by the end of your sophomore (second) year. |
| 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. |
| How easy will it be for me to change my major? |
At Washington University, we want our students choose their own adventures. With 90 undergraduate 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. Please click here for more information. |
| Is Washington University as flexible as it sounds? |
Yes, it is. Approximately 65 percent of our students will complete something besides a single degree in a single major. We think we have the best academic environment for undergraduate students. 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. |
| What type of academic assistance is available? |
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. Faculty members make a point of being approachable and accessible both inside and outside the classroom. In addition, student peers and professional staff, including those in the Career Center, can also provide supportive, individual advising. |
| What should I expect to experience at Washington University? |
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 the world, and who want to find out how others think and live. Our students are ready to explore, learn, work hard, be challenged, and help each other succeed. The university offers numerous resources to ensure a smooth transition and academic success including the First Year Center, a comprehensive resource for all incoming students. |
| 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 (generally 16 semester hours) each semester. Summer school is available for students who also choose to take classes during the summer. |
| What is the first-year curriculum? What courses are required? |
At Washington University, we are committed to making your academic experience an extraordinary one. In designing your first-year curriculum, you and your advisor will typically choose from interdisciplinary courses, linked courses, courses designed to help you hone your communication skills, and courses that emphasize field study and even include an international experience. We want each student 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 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 one-semester freshman writing course. |
| Will I be taught by professors or graduate students? |
Virtually all courses at Washington University—graduate and undergraduate—are taught by faculty members, not graduate teaching assistants. |
| 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 and scholarly work into your classes. |
| 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. |
| 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. Our 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. |
| 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. Our students challenge themselves to do their best and help each other achieve success. |
| Does Washington University accept credit from Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate examinations or A-Level results? |
In a highly selective applicant pool, transcripts that include AP, IB, or A-Level coursework help Admissions advocate for applicants. Admitted students may benefit from the results of this coursework in terms of placement and/or credit. A maximum of 15 units of pre-matriculation credit may be counted towards any undergraduate degree. These units will count towards graduation, but will not meet general education requirements. Placement and credit policies vary by subject area and academic division, detailed information may be accessed through the links below:
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| Does Washington University award credit for college courses taken at my high school? |
Washington University does not recognize credit for courses taken in high schools and taught by secondary instructors, even when sponsored by a university. The university accepts credit for courses taken at and taught by faculty of a college or university, provided the course has not been credited toward the high school diploma. |
| 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 meaningful experiences related to their academic programs that bring classroom learning to life, offering a “reality-check” for career intentions. We encourage each undergraduate student to participate in at least one internship or co-op experience. Students can combine internships or co-op jobs with study abroad in international internships. Washington University has study abroad programs in more than 50 countries and six of the seven continents. There are summer, semester, and full-year programs available. |
| 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.
Career services offered include:
- Self- assessment tools, including MBTI, StrengthQuest, Strong Interest Inventory, and Elevations.
- Assistance with finding internships and engineering co-ops, as well as full-time employment.
- Workshops and seminars on résumé writing, career fields, and networking and interviewing techniques, including recorded practice interviews.
- A career resources library.
- Access to networks of WU alumni and employers 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 specific career paths.
- Job and internship search teams.
- Specialized workshops and panel discussions for architecture students, as well as an architecture and design career fair.
- Career Center-sponsored trips to New York, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Chicago, and Los Angeles for career exploration and networking.
- On-campus interviews, information sessions, and career fairs that provide opportunities to meet face-to-face with prospective employers.
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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 visit coordinators at (800) 638-0700 or (314) 935-6000. |
| 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 our 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. |
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