Doctoral Degrees
At Columbian College, doctoral candidates have access to the rich resources of our nation’s capital. Their studies are supported by major grants from the nation’s top research organizations and institutions. All PhD and PsyD programs are located on our Foggy Bottom campus.
A | B | C | E | G | H | I | M | N | P | S
A
American Studies
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 15 Prerequisite Requirement Applicants are required to have an adequate background in the humanities and/or social sciences as they apply to the field of American studies GRE Test Not Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 500-750 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field and in American Studies at GW in particular, including your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Resume Required Writing Sample Provide a current writing sample of 15 – 20 pages. The sample should reflect your abilities to articulate complex ideas and to utilize evidence in support of your arguments. The writing sample should also provide an example of your research skills, as well as your engagement with scholarship in American studies or related fields. Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
Anthropology
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 15 GRE Test Not Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three
At least two letters should be from faculty.
Statement of Purpose In an essay of 1000-1500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. If you are applying for an assistantship or fellowship, you should also describe any teaching experience you have had. Resume Required Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
Applied Social Psychology
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 1 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor's degree with a major in psychology. Students whose academic preparation is in other disciplines will be expected to have completed prerequisite undergraduate courses to prepare for graduate study in psychology before admission. GRE Test Optional Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. If you are applying for an assistantship or fellowship, you should also describe any teaching experience you have had. Resume Required Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
B
Biological Sciences
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 1 GRE Test Not Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. If you are applying for an assistantship or fellowship, you should also describe any teaching experience you have had.
Applicants are required to establish correspondence with one or more potential research advisors in the Biological Sciences Department prior to submitting your application. You should mention these individuals in your statement of purpose, explain how your interests match their research program(s). Applicants who have not discussed with faculty their interests in the program are unlikely to be admitted.Resume Required Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
C
Cancer Biology - Biomedical Sciences
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 1 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor's degree in biological sciences, chemistry, or a related field. GRE Test Not Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. Resume Required Supplemental Requirements Upload an essay addressing each of these three topics:
1. Research experiences shape an interest in the biomedical PhD and a career in science. Please describe your current or previous research experiences, including any role in designing, performing or reporting a study. What did you learn about yourself in completing this experience? (250-500 words)
2. Please identify three GW IBS faculty trainers and describe your interest in their research programs. (up to 250 words). A list of available faculty trainers is available here.
3. Doctoral study involves both self-motivation and resilience. Give an example of a time you faced a serious obstacle or failure, and how you handled it. (up to 250 words)Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
Chemistry
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 15 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelors degree in chemistry or a related field. GRE Test Optional Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. If you are applying for an assistantship or fellowship, you should also describe any teaching experience you have had. Resume Required Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
Clinical Psychology (Ph.D.)
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 1 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor's degree with a major in psychology. Students whose academic preparation is in other disciplines will be expected to have completed prerequisite undergraduate courses to prepare for graduate study in psychology before admission. GRE Test Not Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 500-1000 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, research experience, and career plans. Describe how you see your role as a scientist-practitioner within the context of social justice and diversity considerations. In responding to this question, we encourage you to reflect upon how your cultural, ethnic, or personal background brings a unique perspective to the Clinical Psychology graduate program. Also describe how your interests resonate with the Clinical Psychology Program's mission statement and the faculty member(s) whom you've selected to work with. Resume Required Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
Clinical Psychology - Professional Psychology (Psy.D.)
Psy.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 83 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 4 years, no more than 5 years
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 1 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor’s degree in psychology with relevant background and experience, or a master’s degree in psychology.
We require all applicants to have completed a college level course in statistics and have significant background in psychology. We recommend that incoming students have completed introductory psychology, abnormal psychology, history and systems, research methods, and lifespan development psychology courses. Preparatory courses may be taken as non-degree courses at any accredited university.
GRE Test Not Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250 – 500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in clinical psychology. Include your clinical and research interests and your career plans. Resume Required Supplemental Requirements As a window on your self-awareness, interpersonal perception, and understanding of other perspectives, in three 250-word essays:
- describe yourself;
- describe someone you know well;
- describe how that person would describe you.
Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
Cognitive Neuroscience
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 1 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor's degree with a major in psychology, cognitive science, cognitive neuroscience, or a related field. Students whose academic preparation is in other disciplines will be expected to have completed prerequisite undergraduate courses to prepare for graduate study in psychology before admission. GRE Test Optional Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, research experience and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. If you are applying for an assistantship or fellowship, you should also describe any teaching experience you have had. Resume Required Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
E
Economics
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time or Part-Time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years. Part-Time - no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - January 15 GRE Test Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. If you are applying for an assistantship or fellowship, you should also describe any teaching experience you have had. Resume Required Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
English
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 1 GRE Test Optional Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. If you are applying for an assistantship or fellowship, you should also describe any teaching experience you have had. Resume Required Writing Sample Provide a writing sample that demonstrates your level of proficiency in literary studies/theory. Your sample should be 10-20 pages in length and be critical/scholarly work rather than creative writing. Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
G
Genomics and Bioinformatics - Biomedical Sciences
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 1 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor's degree in biological sciences, chemistry, or a related field. GRE Test Not Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. Resume Required Supplemental Requirements Upload an essay below addressing each of these three topics:
1. Research experiences shape an interest in the biomedical PhD and a career in science. Please describe your current or previous research experiences, including any role in designing, performing or reporting a study. What did you learn about yourself in completing this experience? (250-500 words)
2. Please identify three GW IBS faculty trainers and describe your interest in their research programs. (up to 250 words). A list of available faculty trainers is available here.
3. Doctoral study involves both self-motivation and resilience. Give an example of a time you faced a serious obstacle or failure, and how you handled it. (up to 250 words)Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
H
History
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 1 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in history, or with substantial history coursework of high academic quality. GRE Test Not Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three
Recommendations should be submitted by professionals familiar with the applicant's academic work and potential for graduate study.
Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, career plans, and the GW faculty member(s) with whom you anticipate working. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. If you are applying for an assistantship or fellowship, you should also describe any teaching experience you have had and whether you are interested in serving as a research assistant for the Eleanor Roosevelt papers. Resume Required Writing Sample Applicants are required to submit a writing sample between 10-20 pages in length. The sample should be a history or research paper. Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
Human Paleobiology
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 15 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor’s degree with a major in anthropology, biological sciences, genetics, geological sciences, neuroscience, psychology, or a related field from an accredited college or university. GRE Test Not Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. It is recommended to identify which faculty are the best fit for your academic and research interests. Resume Required Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
I
Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 15 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor's degree with a major in Psychology or relevant fields. Students whose academic preparation is in other disciplines will be expected to have completed prerequisite undergraduate courses to prepare for graduate study in psychology before admission. GRE Test Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, research experience, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. If you are applying for an assistantship or fellowship, you should also describe any teaching experience you have had. Resume Required Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual score below 6.0
- TOEFL: 100 on old Internet-based test, 5 on new Internet-based test
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
M
Mathematics
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time or Part-Time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years. Part-Time - no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - January 15 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor’s degree in mathematics or comparable coursework. GRE Test Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. If you are applying for an assistantship or fellowship, you should also describe any teaching experience you have had. Resume Required Supplemental Requirements Briefly describe your most relevant research experience, including the place and venue with a description of the type of mathematics involved. For example: Senior Thesis "Milnor's theorem on knot curvature", REU "on Random graph theory at Eastern State Univ", conference presentation "Fractal Dimensions of Random Cantor sets at Nebraska Conference for Undergraduate Women", publication "Rose-Hulman Undergraduate Math Journal". Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
Microbiology and Immunology - Biomedical Sciences
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 1 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor's degree in biological sciences, chemistry, or a related field. GRE Test Not Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. Resume Required Supplemental Requirements Upload an essay below addressing each of these three topics:
1. Research experiences shape an interest in the biomedical PhD and a career in science. Please describe your current or previous research experiences, including any role in designing, performing or reporting a study. What did you learn about yourself in completing this experience? (250-500 words)
2. Please identify three GW IBS faculty trainers and describe your interest in their research programs. (up to 250 words). A list of available faculty trainers is available here.
3. Doctoral study involves both self-motivation and resilience. Give an example of a time you faced a serious obstacle or failure, and how you handled it. (up to 250 words)Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
N
Neuroscience - Biomedical Sciences
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 1 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor's degree in biological sciences, chemistry, or a related field. GRE Test Not Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. Resume Required Supplemental Requirements Upload an essay below addressing each of these three topics:
1. Research experiences shape an interest in the biomedical PhD and a career in science. Please describe your current or previous research experiences, including any role in designing, performing or reporting a study. What did you learn about yourself in completing this experience? (250-500 words)
2. Please identify three GW IBS faculty trainers and describe your interest in their research programs. (up to 250 words). A list of available faculty trainers is available here.
3. Doctoral study involves both self-motivation and resilience. Give an example of a time you faced a serious obstacle or failure, and how you handled it. (up to 250 words)Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
P
Pharmacology and Physiology - Biomedical Sciences
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 1 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor's degree in biological sciences, chemistry, or a related field. GRE Test Not Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. Resume Required Supplemental Requirements Upload an essay below addressing each of these three topics:
1. Research experiences shape an interest in the biomedical PhD and a career in science. Please describe your current or previous research experiences, including any role in designing, performing or reporting a study. What did you learn about yourself in completing this experience? (250-500 words)
2. Please identify three GW IBS faculty trainers and describe your interest in their research programs. (up to 250 words). A list of available faculty trainers is available here.
3. Doctoral study involves both self-motivation and resilience. Give an example of a time you faced a serious obstacle or failure, and how you handled it. (up to 250 words)Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
Physics
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - January 15 GRE Test Not Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, please address the following:
- Summarize your performance in core advanced physics courses;
- Highlight your computational skills and how you have applied them;
- Outline your long-term goals and how your intended PhD research areas will support them;
- Explain your reasons for applying to the GW program, noting any faculty, research groups, or facilities of interest, as well as any prior interactions with faculty.
Resume Required Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
Political Science
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - December 15 GRE Test Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field and describe what political problems or questions motivate you. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. If you are applying for an assistantship or fellowship, you should also describe any teaching experience you have had. Resume Required Writing Sample Applicants must submit a writing sample of no more than 30 pages in length. The sample should reflect your abilities to articulate complex ideas related to political science and to utilize evidence in support of your arguments. Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
Public Policy and Public Administration
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time or Part-Time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years. Part-Time - no more than 8 years
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - January 5 GRE Test Required Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of no more than 750 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study, indicating which of the Ph.D. areas of focus you are applying for. The essay should describe your specific research interests within that field and your career plans. You may also discuss your related qualifications, including academic, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on your application, or resumé/curriculum vitae. Resume Required Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: 100 (old test), 5 (new test)
- Duolingo: 130
- PTE Academic: 68
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.
S
Statistics
Ph.D. | Fall Start | Full-time or Part-Time | 72 Credits | Program Website
Campus: Foggy Bottom
Duration: Full-Time - typically 5 years, no more than 8 years. Part-Time - no more than 8 years
STEM OPT designated
- Application Requirements
Application Deadline(s) Fall - January 15 Prerequisite Requirement A bachelor's degree or master’s degree in mathematics, statistics, or related discipline. The main requirement is a strong background in mathematics including courses in advanced calculus, linear algebra, and mathematical statistics. Some deficiencies may be made up concurrently in the first year of the program. GRE Test Optional Academic Records Provide unofficial transcripts from every college or university you have attended, regardless of whether you completed the program or earned credit. This requirement includes institutions where credits appear as transfer units on another school's transcript. Official transcripts are only required if you are offered admission to the program.
If your transcripts are in a language other than English, you must upload both the original language version and a certified English translation.
Letters of Recommendation Three Statement of Purpose In an essay of 250-500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. If you are applying for an assistantship or fellowship, you should also describe any teaching experience you have had. Resume Required Minimum English Proficiency Test Scores - IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with no individual band score below 5.0
- TOEFL iBT: 80 (old test), 4 (new test)
- Duolingo: 110
- PTE Academic: 53
Check the application requirements website to see if you need to provide proof of English proficiency.