Engaged Learning Opportunities | Columbian College of Arts & Sciences

In Columbian College, students participate in engaged learning programs that provide hands-on opportunities to cultivate their academic interests. These unique programs leverage the resources of the nation’s capital, the university — and even the world.

Whether enrolling in a one-of-a-kind Dean’s Seminar, applying for a competitive research fellowship or being selected to live and breathe politics for a year, students can dive in and expand their learning experience through our exclusive offerings.

Our Programs

Offered exclusively to Columbian College first- year students, these courses challenge students to think critically about topics ranging from the real-world significance of zombie stories to the relationship between mind-altering substances, law and society.

The prestigious Luther Rice Undergraduate Research Fellowship provides funding to Columbian College undergraduates who are undertaking faculty-mentored research projects. Students publish and present research on topics of their choice.

Three Columbian College students receive this fellowship each year to conduct their own STEM research project. Students spend the summer and fall completing projects in biology, chemistry, cognitive neuroscience, neuroscience, physics or psychology.

Rising juniors and seniors are invited to spend a summer under the mentorship of a faculty member working on faculty research. Students gain hands-on experience in scientific research and excellent preparation for future graduate school or career plans.

Each year, 10 incoming freshman are selected for the prestigious Cisneros Scholars leadership program. Established by Gilbert Cisneros, BA ’94, and his wife, Jacki, the institute supports students who aspire to make a difference within the Hispanic community.

Corcoran Scholars are supported in their artistic pursuits as they explore a diversity of practices and interpretations across disciplines, gaining a deeper understanding of the creative process. Scholarships are renewable for up to 10 consecutive semesters of undergraduate study.

Under the guidance of a biology faculty member, select undergraduate biology majors spend 14 weeks (mid-May to August) conducting an independent research project, learning research skills and networking with other students and researchers.

A select group of students explores politics, the individual and society while living and studying together in this intensive year-long course. Political theory, American politics, comparative politics and international relations are all covered in great depth and at an accelerated pace.

Highly motivated and academically talented sophomores at the School Without Walls High School may apply to earn an associate of arts degree from GW’s Columbian College. Students in this program enroll full-time at GW for their junior and senior years at School Without Walls.

Kyanna Spaulding

Class of 2020, Political Communication

“Right now it’s especially important that we get up and have our voices heard and say we are leaders, we are Americans, we are worthy, we are smart, we can contribute, and we want to contribute. Programs like [Cisneros Scholars] really help get our voices out and educate young Latinos.”