We are Columbian College.
The academic heart of GW and home of the engaged liberal arts.
Prospective Students
Whether pursuing your passion for theoretical physics or seeking a degree from the world’s first political communication program, GW's Columbian College of Arts and Sciences offers transformative experiences and influential connections — on top of a world-class education.
Our graduates go on to change the world, pursuing careers in health care, law, education, finance, entertainment, government and public relations.
Undergraduate Studies
As an undergraduate in Columbian College, you will be in a unique position to maximize your #OnlyatGW experience. From exclusive academic courses to enriching research programs, Columbian College is dedicated to providing you with opportunities to learn and grow in the nation’s capital. And, with more than 160 majors, minors and combined degree programs (bachelor’s + master’s), we offer a program of study suited for virtually every interest.
Beyond the Classroom
Geography Students Chart Next Generation of Mappers
GW’s YouthMappers are leading new national initiatives to train students in mapping technology and expand opportunities for women in the geospatial community.
At-Home Experiments Enhance Remote Learning
When COVID-19 limited students’ access to campus labs, chemistry professors designed a do-it-yourself solution to provide an “authentic research experience.”
Pollinators Find a Home at GW
Biology majors Adele Queener, Camille Leoni and Fiona Lupi studied what kind of insects spend their days feeding off Foggy Bottom flowers to better support the local ecosystem.
Jason Starita
BS '20, Physics
“As an undergraduate physics major, I’m realizing that you can relate what you learn to anything you want to do. You’re not just restricted to doing research, you’re not restricted to academia. The skills that you learn are skills that employers want.”
Graduate Studies
Columbian College is a magnet for top scholars and a catalyst for learning and discovery. Our advanced degrees and graduate certificates integrate the highest caliber of education, from our world-renowned programs in subjects like history, political science and public policy, to our pioneering work in art therapy, forensic sciences and LGBT health policy and practice.
Graduate Degrees at Work
Alumna Journalist Spotlights Cries For Racial Justice
As a student, Zinhle Essamuah, BA ’15, MA ’17, documented protestors in Ferguson, Mo. Now a national news correspondent, she is again highlighting calls for change as the host of a daily evening news show.
Untangling the Trauma-Speech Connection
How does trauma link to speech and language disorders? Graduate student Sarah Hine and a team of researchers are using their own experiences with vulnerable populations to guide speech pathology protocols.
When Hollywood Dreams Dim, Alumna Shines a Light
For many aspiring entertainers, visions of stardom can fade into struggles with homelessness and depression. Caroline Adegun, MA ’16, launched a nonprofit to support their work and their lives.
Bani Malhotra
MA '18, Art Therapy
"I chose to go to GW because of its experiential framework, structured internship opportunities for practicum hours, state of the art supervision and expert faculty. GW also extended financial support which was essential in my pursuit of higher education."
