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Washington University in St Louis Introduction

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From modest beginnings as a regional university, Washington University in St. Louis has emerged as a national leader in undergraduate and graduate education. The university now draws approximately ninety percent of students from outside of Missouri, with students from all fifty states, two U.S. territories, the District of Columbia, and over sixty countries. Nearly sixty percent of the students come from more than 500 miles away, making this one of the most geographically diverse universities in the world. As a medium-sized university, Wash. U. provides the perfect combination of a friendly smaller campus with the resources of a large university. Visitors will notice a unique spirit of camaraderie. Some might attribute it to midwestern friendliness, but more likely it is the product of the common desire to learn that pervades the campus.

Washington University’s Danforth Campus is set on a hill overlooking Forest Park, one of the nation’s largest urban parks. The World’s Fair brought international ambassadors and exhibits to the park in 1904, and Brookings Hall served as a gathering place much as it does for students today. From this vantage point, seven miles west of downtown St. Louis, the offices, restaurants, theaters, and stadiums nearly blend into the horizon. Known for the majestic Gateway Arch, St. Louis offers a variety of cultural experiences from concerts and theater performances to Cardinals baseball games and the second largest Mardi Gras celebration in the nation.

I applied to schools all over the country. But when it came time to choose, I realized that Washington U. was everything I wanted in a university. After visiting, I found out that Washington U. has much better programs and gives me so many more choices than any other school I had applied to. I can take classes in chemistry, presidential rhetoric, or political science while I focus on photography. There’s just an unbelievable amount of options. — Zachary Gitlin, College of Arts & Sciences, 2008

Students can choose from four undergraduate colleges: Arts & Sciences, Business, Design and Visual Arts (including Architecture, Art), and Engineering. (There are also graduate programs in these colleges, plus those in Law, Medicine, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Social Work.) The choices don’t end there. Many students opt to pursue combined studies through double majors, minors, or dual-degree programs. It is easy to pursue multiple interests even if they involve two different undergraduate schools of the university. Flexibility is a key component of an education at Washington University. Faculty advisors guide students on a path that explores a variety of interests.

Wash. U. provides a dynamic, challenging academic environment. Students can choose from unique courses such as “The Cultural History of the Robot” and “Strangers and Savages, Aliens and Outcasts.” Opportunities to learn don’t end in the classroom either. Research projects are open to undergraduates, and every year many students choose to travel and study abroad through a university-sponsored program.

Technology helps Wash. U. students develop skills for learning that will make them successful later in their careers. In addition to resources located in the libraries, the university offers wireless access to the Internet in many locations as well as computer labs in the residential colleges and other campus locations, and direct Internet access in each residence hall room. Most courses offer an on-line element whether it is a home page, tutorials, or the interactive on-line learning environment called Prometheus.

Improvements are also taking place on the campus landscape – new buildings are sprouting up every year. In recent years, Whitaker Hall for Biomedical Engineering and a new Earth and Planetary Sciences Building opened on campus, Olin Library completed renovations that include a popular Internet cafe. Washington has a commitment to improvement, and it shows.

At the College of Architecture we get a really strong foundation to work from, regardless of any changes of technology in the future. And I love my professors. Sometimes when we work on projects late at night or on weekends, they stop by to check on us or even bring us snacks. We have tremendous respect for them and for their knowledge and skills, but they make themselves very approachable and available for us. — Eun Grace Choi, College of Architecture, 2007

However, the real value comes from students. At Wash. U., students set high academic standards for themselves, but they also enjoy participating in community service, playing Frisbee in the Swamp, and going to parties at one of twelve fraternities. Social, cultural, political, and religious groups design programs to educate and entertain their fellow students. Ursa’s, a corner cafe that accepts university meal cards, offers a patio where students meet on warm afternoons. Issues of Student Life, the 128-year-old student newspaper, can be seen on tables and in backpacks all over campus. Whether students choose to live in a Residential College, the Village, a fraternity, or a university-owned apartment, they will enjoy the benefits of a close community.

From the friendly smiles on the oak-lined paths to the group study sessions in Ursa’s Cafe, visitors pick up an atmosphere of community at Wash. U. This atmosphere extends into the classroom, where professors are eager to share their knowledge and students are engaged in active analysis. Flexibility is also prevalent in the selection of classes, majors, and extracurricular activities. Students with initiative can define their own experience, and Wash. U. has the resources to support innovative thinking. Professors who lead in their field, the latest technology, and the surrounding city of St. Louis all create opportunities for learning. Still, much self-discovery takes place outside of the classroom—in residence halls, at student group meetings, and even at social events. The size and location of Washington U. make it a perfect fit for students who don’t want to be lost in the crowd but are excited by the opportunities at a medium-sized university.

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Washington University in St Louis Academics

Flexibility is central to academics at Wash. U. Students are encouraged to pursue their interests even when they change; multiple interests are not only tolerated but encouraged. It is common to have a double major, even in different schools of the university. Sixty percent of students earn a major and minor or more than one major. Some students even choose to design their own major. With over ninety programs and 1,500 courses offered, no wonder students get excited about multiple subjects. Wash. U. students experience self-discovery by taking challenging classes in many divisions, working with renowned professors, and using their analytical skills.

Preparation

Many students receive credit for AP, honors, or IB courses taken during high school. In addition, placement exams are offered for areas such as foreign language and mathematics. Even when credit is not awarded, honors courses are beneficial in the admissions process because they represent a student’s desire to be challenged.

Unique Opportunities

Many students begin their studies with optional freshman seminars and special programs, such as the Mind, Brain, and Behavior program, which prepares students for research during sophomore year. FOCUS seminars, concentrating on controversial issues in society, are also popular. Wash. U. is a pioneer in combined studies, with majors such as Philosophy, Neuroscience, and Psychology (PNP) and American Culture Studies. The University Scholars Program is another unique opportunity, in which students apply for both undergraduate and graduate study at Washington University in specific areas. University Scholars work with a faculty mentor who guides them toward their desired graduate studies.

Academic Schedule

The school year is organized into two semesters, with a wide selection of courses also offered during the summer. Students typically take about fifteen credit hours (or five classes) per semester. By junior and senior year, many students are able to schedule classes with Fridays off. One of the only required courses at Wash. U. is writing 1, a freshmanlevel writing course. Writing provides the foundation for communication in nearly all disciplines, so its importance is stressed early. Later, course selection is guided by each undergraduate school. In Arts & Sciences, classes are chosen through a cluster system. Core courses cover the following areas:

  • Physical and natural sciences and mathematics
  • Social and behavioral sciences
  • Textual and historical studies
  • Languages and the arts

I really wanted to come to Washington University because of how easy it is to combine studies and majors between schools. I’m a double major in art and engineering, specializing in visual communications and computer science. I was really impressed by how extensive the wireless network is and how much we use the Internet in conjunction with the classroom. — Joyce Santos, College of Art; School of Engineering & Applied Science, 2008

Classes

As in the selection of a major, class options are numerous and flexible. Students in the undergraduate schools are encouraged to take classes from the other schools. An architecture student may take an engineering class in computer science, while a political science major takes management in the business school.

Classes at Washington challenge students to think analytically, to become problem solvers, and relate ideas to the big picture. More than eighty percent of classes have fewer than twenty-four students, encouraging personal attention from the professor and a prominent role in discussion. Classes can be larger the first year, especially in introductory courses that provide a prerequisite for many majors. By senior year, students find themselves in much smaller classes, among a community of their peers. Classes provide solid preparation for graduate school or a career by emphasizing communication skills and critical thinking.

Advisors

Students are automatically assigned to a four-year academic advisor upon arrival. Advisors are guides and resources for self-discovery. They help students achieve their goals and outline a career path, but they rely on students to challenge themselves. Freshmen also are given a peer advisor, an upper-class student who can provide assistance in making the transition to college. Once a student declares a major, he or she chooses a major advisor. Major advisors have experience and knowledge in their fields and can be especially helpful in discussing career options.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Outside the classroom walls, experiential learning shapes the Wash. U. experience. Many students participate in internships, whether they are during the summer or the school year. The Career Center maintains relationships with many companies to facilitate internships for students.

Study-abroad programs are available for every discipline, and are typically completed during junior year. Programs include economics at the London School of Economics, business in Hong Kong, and health care in France.

Ultimately, it is the daily experiences of the university – interacting with peers, conducting research, or joining a student group – that complete the learning experience.

Resources

With more than 3.6 million books, periodicals, and government publications, Wash. U. libraries provide excellent resources for research – including wireless Internet access. Electronic resources are also plentiful with subscriptions to many electronic journals and databases available through a campus Internet connection. In addition, all campus rooms are supplied with in-room data connections, and each residential college has its own computer lab. Courses in computer science and electronic media are also available for interested students even if they are not students in the School of Engineering.

The most recent additions to the Wash. U. landscape, the Earth and Planetary Sciences Building, offer state-of-the-art equipment for students interested in biomedical engineering and in geology and the space sciences, respectively. Soon a new dorm under construction in the residence hall area will offer students additional living options.

Campus events such as lectures, readings, and conferences are another asset to an education at Wash. U. The Assembly Series is a regular lecture program during the academic year. In recent years speakers on campus have included NAACP Chairman Julian Bond, former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, New York Times columnist Tom Friedman, the Dalai Lama of Tibet, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Bill Gates, and a number of U.S. Presidents..

Educational services such as the Writing Center, the International House, and the Disability Resource Center offer help to students. Students can discuss an essay with a peer tutor or simply brainstorm ideas at the Writing Center. International students benefit from English Language Programs courses and assistance with the transition to life in the United States. Even a student who breaks a wrist can be assisted with note-takers from the Disability Resource Center ready to fill in while the student heals.

This site is not sponsored by, affiliated with, nor endorsed by Washington University in St Louis

Washington University in St Louis Admissions

With over 22,000 applications in a recent year, Wash. U. is becoming increasingly competitive. To compete, students must pursue a challenging combination of courses and extracurricular activities. Admissions officers look at course selection and grades, recommendations, essays, extracurricular activities, and standardized tests.

Academic excellence, demonstrated by transcripts and test scores, is only the first step in the admissions process. At Washington U., applicants must also show how they have challenged themselves or pursued a personal talent. Initiative – taking honors, AP and IB courses when available, conducting independent research, or leading a team – separates high achievers. Recommendation letters and essay responses are the best methods for applicants to emphasize their unique qualities.

Admissions Deadlines

Either the SAT or the ACT is required and should be taken in the fall of senior year, if not earlier. Early Decision applications are accepted by November 15, whereas regular decision applications are due by January 15. Regular admission decisions are mailed on April 1.

Admission Procedures by School

General admission procedures require sending a high school transcript, which should include the following:

  • 4 years of English
  • 4 years of mathematics (calculus is recommended)
  • 3­4 years of history and social sciences
  • 3­4 years of laboratory sciences
  • at least 2 years of foreign language

High school courses should reflect preparation for the program you are pursuing. For instance, students interested in the sciences, engineering, or the premedicine program should have preparation in chemistry, physics, calculus, and biology. Art and Architecture students have the option of providing a portfolio, which should include drawings from direct observation and a variety of media. A strong academic background is essential for success at Washington University, but it must be combined with a desire to seek out challenges.

I like it that you can take classes in any school – art, business, arts and sciences. I like it open-ended, since I don’t know what I’m going to do. I came here for a liberal arts education, and that’s what I’m doing. It’s really easy to come in contact with professors ranked high in their field. I meet important people on a day-to-day basis." – Daniel Gealy, College of Arts & Sciences, 2009

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Washington University in St Louis Financial Aid

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Most students receive some form of financial assistance through scholarships, student loans, and part-time employment. All scholarships are awarded based on merit, yet some are given on both merit and need. Both the College Scholarship Service (CSS) PROFILE and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are acceptable to apply for need-based financial assistance. Army and Air Force ROTC Scholarships are another option. Payment plans with monthly tuition installments and long-term, low-interest loans are available for parents.

Employment

Students have access to numerous campus jobs whether or not they have applied for financial assistance. Approximately half of all students work part-time on campus. These students can be found in laboratories, administrative offices, libraries, theaters, the Athletic Complex, and the bookstore.

Scholarships

The University provides more than $53 million each year in scholarships to undergraduates, including both merit-based and need-based scholarships. More information is available from the admissions Web site (admissions.wustl.edu).

This site is not sponsored by, affiliated with, nor endorsed by Washington University in St Louis

Washington University in St Louis Students

It’s important to look beyond your classes and schoolwork to find out what your true passions are. Especially as a freshman, you should take advantage of opportunities to join extracurricular groups. You can use these experiences to choose a major, to choose classes, and to guide your career choices. — Brittany Jackson, College of Arts & Sciences, 2008

Leadership

Leadership at Washington University is apparent both in and out of the classroom. Students may develop as leaders through group projects in the business school, teamwork in intramural basketball, or as an elected class representative. Avenues for developing leadership skills include meeting with other student leaders in the Student Group Council, attending leadership conferences, or participating in workshops during the Women’s Leadership Training Initiative. The most valuable learning experience for many students is simply diving into a leadership position. Advisors in the Office of Student Activities are available for support, but student leaders make the real decisions for their groups.

Elected positions in the Congress of the South 40 (CS40), the North Side Association, and Student Union (SU) are highly sought after. These governing organizations allow students to influence important issues that shape the Wash. U. community. CS40 and the North Side Association are the government bodies for the residential areas of campus, known as the South 40 and the Village. Student Union, the primary student governmental body, allocates nearly $2 million in activities funds to student groups in addition to representing student concerns to the administration. Students here have power to make a difference.

Academic/Preprofessional Organizations

Academic organizations provide an opportunity to meet with students and faculty who share your interests. Groups such as the Biomedical Engineers Society, Pre-Med Society, and American Institute of Graphic Arts allow students to discuss their career interests and learn from a community of their peers. Honorary groups recognize outstanding students and bring them together to help the community. For example, the sophomore honorary, Lock & Chain, hosts the biannual book sale.

Community Service

Surveys indicate fifty-seven percent of students at Wash. U. participate in community service, whether on campus or in the St. Louis community. Volunteer opportunities range from teaching children about environmental issues to serving food to those in need. Community service also means raising money for charities through Greek philanthropies or events such as Dance Marathon, a day of entertainment benefiting the Children’s Miracle Network. The Campus Y offers many programs for students interested in volunteering, including hosting the Special Olympics at the Athletic Complex. While some students are enjoying Caribbean beaches, other students choose an alternative spring break, devoting one week to community service projects such as building homes for low-income families.

Greek Life

Fraternities and sororities complement life at Wash. U. by providing social activities, community service, brotherhood, and sisterhood. About twenty-five percent of students belong to one of twelve fraternities or six sororities. Rush takes place at the beginning of the second semester, so students have a chance to learn about Greek life well before joining. Fraternities have on-campus houses, managed by the university. Sororities have suites to gather for meetings or relaxation, but no traditional living quarters on campus. “Greeks” at Wash. U. are not in an isolated community. Fraternities and sororities provide a supportive social structure for students, but most “Greek” students maintain or develop relationships with “non-Greek” students throughout their time at Wash. U.

I like to be involved and active. Washington University has given me a lot of opportunities to find organizations that I want to get involved in. I’m on the campus interview team, president of CHIMES junior honorary, and class council secretary. The opportunities, resources, and experiences have helped me grow into a well-grounded person and given me a strong foundation for success in the future. — Sara Anne Morris, Olin School of Business, 2007

Social Events and Performances

While students at Wash. U. work hard, they also take time to relax. Social events such as concerts, acts by comedians, and a weekly happy hour are popular among students.

Artistic performances are abundant. Wash. U. is known for its excellent a cappella groups – male, female, coed, ethnic, cultural, classical, gospel – you name it. The Performing Arts Department puts on up to six productions a year. A battle of the bands called Sounds of the Swamp features student bands in a showcase of Wash. U. talent.

Walk In Lay Down, better known as WILD, is a Wash. U. tradition and the most highly attended event every semester. For one day, the Quad is filled with free food, drinks, games, music, and people. Students, faculty, and staff come together to celebrate both the beginning and end of the academic year. The day culminates with a headlining band, which is kept secret until about a week before the event.

Thurtene

The oldest student-run carnival in the nation, Thurtene, is a Wash. U. community service tradition. A junior honor organization called Thurtene organizes the carnival for one weekend in April each year, complete with a Ferris wheel, cotton candy, and games. Fraternities and sororities team up to build and decorate playhouses, or “facades,” to perform plays and musicals written by students. Not only the university’s students, faculty, and staff enjoy the carnival, but families from the St. Louis community also join in the fun. All of the proceeds from ticket sales are donated to local charities.

Media

Wash. U. students use media for artistic expression, to convey opinions, or to entertain others, and at the same time they gain valuable real-life experience. The university TV station (WUTV) and radio station (KWUR) are student-run and feature student broadcasters, actors, and DJs. Written publications highlight the talents of student writers. Student Life, one of the nation’s oldest independent student newspapers, is a forum for dialogue on controversial issues as well as a way to find out what is happening on campus. Literary magazines feature student essays, short stories, poems, photographs, and drawings.

Cultural and Religious Groups

Cultural groups offer a community for people with similar backgrounds while educating others about diverse traditions, values, and lifestyles. Annual performances such as the Indian celebration of Diwali and the Lunar New Year Festival create long lines of students waiting at the box office for tickets.

Religious organizations such as Hillel and the Catholic Student Center create a home away from home for many students. These organizations not only offer religious services, but also fellowship with other students, community service projects, and contact with St. Louis.

Political Activism

Political groups on both sides of the spectrum are active on campus, and they encourage students to discuss issues by sponsoring debates and voting drives. In 2004, the second U.S. Presidential Debate, featuring George W. Bush and John Kerry, was hosted at the Washington University Athletic Complex. Students participated as volunteers and were admitted into the audience.

I visited Washington U. during high school, and it was really because of the campus and people that I wound up here. I enjoy having the amazing variety of opportunities available. I’m a pitcher on the women’s softball team. I’ve juggled fire with the juggling club. — Laurel Sagartz, School of Engineering & Applied Science, 2007

On Campus

Freshmen generally live in double or triple rooms on a coed floor of between twenty-five and fifty students. These freshman floors are a learning experience for everyone, and become a supportive community for many. Early in the fall semester, groups of bright-eyed freshmen can be seen walking together on the way to dinner or a party. Fourteen new residence halls have been built since 1998.

Campus Food

With 16 Bon Appétit dining locations on campus, convenience is a major factor in student satisfaction. Ursa’s, a cafe with retro style, includes pool tables, computers, and board games. The Bear’s Den, another campus food location, stays open until 3:00 A.M. on weekends to accommodate late-night snacking. National food chains such as Subway, Krispy Kreme, and Starbucks contribute to the variety in food options. Efforts are made to inform students about nutritional content and portion size through the dining services web site. Perhaps the most successful feature of the dining program is the simplest, as each student ID includes a magnetic strip that automatically deducts food “points” from the student’s account at any food location on campus.

This site is not sponsored by, affiliated with, nor endorsed by Washington University in St Louis

Washington University in St Louis Athletics

Wash. U. is an NCAA Division III school and founding member of the University Athletic Association (UAA). No athletic scholarships are offered, which means that athletes are dedicated to both academics and athletics. Student athletes are students first, athletes second. Eighteen varsity sports are offered, and Wash. U. has had championship success in almost every one. In 2003­2004, the women’s volleyball team has captured a record-setting eight NCAA Division III national championships.

Club and intramural sports are popular among students because they allow exercise, competition, and camaraderie without the time commitment of varsity sports. More than seventy-five percent of students have participated in at least one intramural sport. Some unusual sports such as Ultimate Frisbee and inner-tube water polo are included in the intramural choices.

Sports and recreation facilities at Washington are comprehensive. The Athletic Complex includes an indoor and outdoor track, a swimming pool, basketball court, tennis courts, racquetball courts, and more. The South 40 Fitness Center provides a place to work out just steps away from most of the residence halls. The tree-lined paths and golf course of Forest Park are just across the street.

St. Louis is known as a great sports city, so even professional sports fanatics can be happy at Wash. U. With teams such as the St. Louis Rams, Cardinals, and Blues, games take place year-round. Busch Stadium is easily accessible from Wash. U. via the MetroLink, and both peer advisors and resident advisors are known to take their groups to sports games on occasion.

This site is not sponsored by, affiliated with, nor endorsed by Washington University in St Louis

Washington University in St Louis Local Community

Situated near Forest Park, the university provides access to museums, recreational facilities, and the St. Louis Zoo, nearly all of which have free admission. Just on the other side of the park is the Washington University School of Medicine in the Central West End, one of the young, hip areas of St. Louis. Full of vintage clothing stores, every type of ethnic restaurant, and several coffee shops, the Central West End is the perfect place to sit back with friends over a cup of java and discuss the last campus speaker or the results of the chemistry mid-term.

Nearby Clayton, the financial district and county government center, offers opportunities for summer internships or simply a romantic dinner at an Italian restaurant, followed by a stroll through an art gallery. A bit further in the other direction, downtown St. Louis offers history and entertainment. Every student should visit the Gateway Arch sometime during his or her four years, but other attractions such as jazz clubs, Union Station (a historic, restored train station that features a beautiful hotel, shops, and restaurants), and the Anheuser-Busch brewery (world’s largest) deserve some attention.

For students interested in seeing more of St. Louis, university shuttles, the MetroLink light rail system, MetroBus, taxicabs, rental cars, and upperclassmen are viable options. Movie theaters, grocery stores, and restaurants are all accessible by train, bus, or shuttle. Areas such as the Loop, a district famous for its shops, restaurants, and bars, is within walking distance of the university. Students can be found at Fitz’s—a local root beer brewery—one of the local bookstores, or the famous St. Louis Bread Company.

This site is not sponsored by, affiliated with, nor endorsed by Washington University in St Louis

Washington University in St Louis Alumni

The most popular majors for a recent year’s graduating class included biology, psychology, engineering, and business. Graduates found jobs around the country and around the world. Every year employers seek out the combination of skills developed at Washington University.

Students have access to the Washington University Career Centers, where the staff is ready to critique a résumé, discuss a career search, or provide career resources. Career preparation covers all four years with seminars ranging from “How to Find an Internship” to “Interviewing Skills.” Approximately 250 companies recruited on campus in a recent year including Microsoft, Gap Inc., and Goldman Sachs. Wash. U. also offers an opportunity to build connections with alumni through a database called Career Connections.

An education at Wash. U. fosters a continued desire for learning, and many students choose to continue with graduate study. In fact, thirty percent of the Class of 2006 planned to graduate school immediately, and eighty-five percent said they planned further graduate or professional education some time in the future. Wash. U. prepares students for success in master’s degree and Ph.D. programs. Some students even pursue further study in one of the graduate programs offered through the university’s eight schools.

I chose Washington University because of the unique opportunities offered here. Washington U. encourages students to broaden their horizons, to go beyond the scope of their chosen disciplines and expand their minds. I was attracted to both the academic excellence here and the encouraging atmosphere. Most of all, I like the cooperation and the partnerships I’ve formed. We all work together and learn from each other. This helps build friendships and widens my horizons. — Nikhail Aggarwal, School of Engineering & Applied Science, 2008

Famous Grads

  • Clark Clifford, Former Secretary of Defense
  • Ken Cooper, Pulitzer Prize-winning Journalist
  • David Garroway, Host of NBC-TV’s Today Show
  • Frank Gladney, Founder of 7-UP
  • A.E. Hotchner, Novelist and Playwright
  • John F. McDonnell, Former CEO of McDonnell Douglas
  • Shepherd Mead, Playwright
  • Condé Nast, Vogue Publisher
  • Mike Peters, Pulitzer Prize-winning Editorial Cartoonist
  • Harold Ramis, Screenwriter famous for Ghostbusters and Animal House
  • Earl Sutherland, Nobel Laureate in Medicine
  • James Thompson, Former Governor of Illinois
  • Tennessee Williams, Playwright
  • William H. Webster, Former Director of FBI and CIA

This site is not sponsored by, affiliated with, nor endorsed by Washington University in St Louis

Washington University in St Louis Faculty

Professors at Washington U. are leaders in their fields, engaged in research but also interested in sharing their knowledge with undergraduates. They enjoy teaching. Professors have been honored with awards that include the Nobel Prize and Pulitzer Prize. Yet, professors are approachable and accessible in and out of the classroom. Frequently, students and professors meet to continue a classroom discussion, discuss a paper, or clarify information before an exam. Some undergraduates pursue research, working closely with a faculty mentor. Research is not constrained to laboratory science either. Opportunities exist in a variety of fields, from anthropology to economics.

I feel that undergraduates at Washington U. have been very well taken care of. I was at once struck by the school’s beauty. Because they were offering these scholarship opportunities, I knew they place a special emphasis on academic achievement. When I interviewed with the professors I saw that I wasn’t just going to be a number. I was a writer. I was a reader. I was a scholar – someone to be challenged and engaged. — Laura Quek, College of Arts & Sciences, 2007

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Local News for Washington University in St Louis

Washington U. researchers look to enriched crops to solve childhood malnutrition September 28th

A Washington University doctor is leading a collaborative effort to end childhood malnutrition in Africa by developing and deploying enriched staple crops.

In pursuit of life, Mars rovers continue search for water September 28th

The Mars Exploration Rovers, Spirit and Opportunity, launched in the summer of 2003. Now, more than six years later, the two robot geologists are still running and collecting data on Mars, though their missions were originally expected to last only 90 days each.

France asks Washington U. anthropologist to testify on burqa debate September 25th

The burqa debate is back on in France, and a Washington University anthropologist has become part of it.

Information Summary

Ranks 48th overall and 1st in Missouri

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Demographics – Main Campus and Surrounding Areas

Reported area around or near Saint Louis, MO 63130-4899

Surrounding communityLarge city (inside urban area, pop. over 250,000)
Total Population34,424 (34,424 urban / N/A rural)
Households13,168 (2.35 people per house)
Families7,798 (2.99 people per family)
Pop. — African American15,033
Pop. — Asian1,385
Pop. — Pacific Islander375
Pop. — American Indian / Alaskan Native229
Pop. — White (incl. Hispanic)17,868
Pop. — Other615
University of Phoenix
University of Maryland University College (UMUC)

Carnegie Foundation Classification

Research Universities (very high research activity)

UndergraduateArts & sciences plus professions, high graduate coexistence
GraduateComprehensive doctoral with medical/veterinary
Undergraduate PopulationFull-time four-year, more selective, lower transfer-in
EnrollmentMajority undergraduate
Size & SettingLarge four-year, highly residential

General Characteristics

Highest offeringDoctoral degree
Calendar SystemSemester
Years of college work requiredN/A
Variable TuitionNo

Special Learning Opportunities

Distance LearningNo
ROTC — Army / Navy / Air Force YesYes / No / Yes
Study AbroadYes
Weekend CollegeYes
Teacher CertificationNo

Student Tuition Costs and Fees

What are the typical tuition costs and fees for attending Washington University in St Louis?

Ranks 10th for total cost of attendance

  In District In State Out of State
FT Undergraduate Tuition $34,500 $34,500 $34,500
FT Undergraduate Required Fees $1,024 $1,024 $1,024
PT Undergraduate per Credit Hour $1,438 $1,438 $1,438
FT Graduate Tuition $34,500 $34,500 $34,500
FT Graduate Required Fees N/A N/A N/A
PT Graduate per Credit Hour $1,438 $1,438 $1,438
Total Cost of Attendance — On-Campus $49,796 $49,796 $49,796
Total Cost of Attendance — Off-Campus w/out Family $36,684 $36,684 $36,684
Total Cost of Attendance — Off-Campus with Family $36,684 $36,684 $36,684

Student Tuition Costs for Professional Fields

What are the typical tuition costs and fees for getting a professional degree?

  In State Out of State
Medical Degree — Tuition $43,380 $43,380
Medical Degree — Required Fees N/A N/A
Law Degree — Tuition $37,460 $37,460
Law Degree — Required Fees N/A N/A

Student Tuition Cost History and Trends

Three year history and trends on the cost of attending

  In District In State Out of State
Published Tuition & Fees $32,042 trend  $35,524 $32,042 trend  $35,524 $32,042 trend  $35,524
  Cost (regardless of residency)
Books & Supplies $1,050 trend  $1,160
On-Campus – Room & Board $10,409 trend  $11,252
On-Campus – Other Expenses $1,680 trend  $1,860
Off-Campus w/out Family – Room & Board N/A trend  N/A
Off-Campus w/out Family – Other Expenses N/A trend  N/A
Off-Campus with Family – Room & Board N/A trend  N/A

Admission Details

Application Fee RequiredN/A
Undergraduate Application Fee$55
Graduate Application Fee$35
First Professional Application FeeN/A
Applicants 22,428 (10,326 male / 12,098 female)
Admitted 3,887 (2,021 male / 1,866 female)
Admission rate 17%
First-time Enrollment 1,341 (686 male / 655 female)
FT Enrollment 1,340 (685 male / 655 female)
PT Enrollment 1 (1 male / N/A female)
Total Enrollment13,355

Admission Criteria

What criteria does Washington University in St Louis use for admissions?

Required = Required, Recommended = Recommended, Neither required nor recommended = Neither required nor recommended
Open AdmissionsNo
Secondary School GPA / Rank / RecordRequired / Recommended / Required
College Prep. CompletionRecommended
RecommendationsRequired
Formal competency demoRecommended
Admission test scoresRequired
TOEFLRequired
Other testsN/A

Admission Credits Accepted

What types of credits does Washington University in St Louis accept?

Dual CreditNo
Life ExperienceNo
Advanced Placement (AP)Yes

Athletics - Association Memberships

Sports / Athletic Conference Memberships NCAA
NCAA Football Conference University Athletic Association
NCAA Basketball Conference University Athletic Association
NCAA Baseball Conference University Athletic Association
NCAA Track & Field Conference University Athletic Association

ACT Test Admission

Ranks 13th for 75pctl scores

Applicants submitting ACT results 56%
Verbal scores (25/75 %ile) 31 / 34
Math scores (25/75 %ile) 30 / 35
Cumulative scores (25/75 %ile) 30 / 33

SAT Test Admission

Ranks 13th for 75pctl scores

Applicants submitting SAT results 81%
Verbal scores (25/75 %ile) 680 / 750
Math scores (25/75 %ile) 690 / 780
Cumulative scores (25/75 %ile) 1370 / 1530

Student Services

Remedial ServicesNo
Academic / Career CounselingYes
PT Cost-defraying EmploymentYes
Career PlacementYes
On-Campus Day CareNo
Library FacilityYes

Student Living

First-time Room / Board RequiredYes
Dorm Capacity6,428
Meals per WeekN/A
Room Fee$7,102
Board Fee$4,150

Student Financial Aid Details

How many students use Financial Aid, and how much do they use?

Washington University in St Louis Ranks 2185th for the average student loan amount.

  Average Users % of Attendees
Federal Grant Aid $3,654 130 pie   9%
State & Local Grant Aid $2,491 114 pie   8%
Institutional Grant Aid $19,122 688 pie   47%
Student Loan Aid $4,454 450 pie   31%
Any financial aid type   832 pie   57%

Student Enrollment Demographics

How many students are enrolled at Washington University in St Louis?

  Men Women Total
Non Resident Alien
8336161,449
Black Non-Hispanic
344603947
Hispanic
153170323
Asian / Pacific Islander
7086261,334
American Indian / Alaskan Native
233053
White Non-Hispanic
3,9864,0838,069
Race Unknown
6255551,180
Total 6,672 6,683 13,355

Student Graduation Demographics

How many students graduated at Washington University in St Louis?

  Men Women Total
Non Resident Alien
332558
Black Non-Hispanic
3970109
Hispanic
251843
Asian / Pacific Islander
6370133
American Indian / Alaskan Native
2N/A2
White Non-Hispanic
420506926
Race Unknown
4972121
Total 631 761 1,392

Most Popular Fields of Study

The top 5 fields of study completed at Washington University in St Louis.

  Men Women Total
251 98 349
153 101 254
29 162 191
47 137 184
68 71 139

Student Completion / Graduation Demographics

How many students are successful graduates?

  Non Resident Alien Black Non-Hispanic Hispanic Asian / Pacific Islander American Indian / Alaskan Native White Non-Hispanic Race Unknown Total
Accounting 5 4 1 7 1 21 1 40
Advanced Legal Research/Studies, General (LL 6 1 7
Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering 2 1 14 1 18
African-American/Black Studies 7 1 1 9
American/U 30 1 2 1 34
American/United States Studies/Civilization 1 4 1 6
Ancient Studies/Civilization 1 2 2 5
Anthropology 4 13 4 11 1 51 12 96
Arabic Language and Literature 1 1 2
Archeology 1 1
Architectural Technology/Technician 4 4
Architecture (BArch, BA/BS, MArch, MA/MS, PhD) 15 2 5 7 51 4 84
Area Studies, Other 4 4 33 3 44
Art History, Criticism and Conservation 1 2 1 23 8 35
Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist 2 2 20 24
Biochemistry 2 6 1 9
Bioinformatics 1 1 2
Biology/Biological Sciences, General 7 8 6 25 2 86 5 139
Biomedical Sciences, General 3 1 7 11 1 23
Biomedical/Medical Engineering 20 2 3 13 46 5 89
Botany/Plant Biology 2 1 3
Business Administration and Management, General 90 16 8 27 185 23 349
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other 1 1 2
Business/Managerial Economics 1 2 18 2 23
Cell/Cellular and Molecular Biology 4 6 13 23
Chemical Engineering 8 3 1 18 4 34
Chemistry, General 20 1 1 2 14 38
Chemistry, Other 3 8 1 12
Chinese Language and Literature 1 1 1 3
City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning 3 4 7
Civil Engineering, General 2 2 2 19 3 28
Civil Engineering, Other 1 1
Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General 4 4
Commercial and Advertising Art 2 3 1 6
Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other 1 1 4 1 7
Comparative Literature 1 1 1 2 1 6
Computer Engineering, General 9 2 2 20 3 36
Computer Science 14 2 3 11 51 11 92
Computer/Information Technology Services Administration andManagement, Other 3 5 1 7 1 63 8 88
Construction Engineering 5 1 6
Creative Writing 10 1 11
Dance, General 1 1
Developmental Biology and Embryology 2 1 1 3 7
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General 1 1 2 10 14
East Asian Studies 3 3
Ecology, Evolution, Systematics and Population Biology, Other 1 1 5 7
Economics, General 22 4 1 10 59 9 105
Education, General 4 1 18 1 24
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering 24 1 3 6 23 3 60
Elementary Education and Teaching 1 4 5
Engineering Physics 1 4 1 6
Engineering, Other 3 5 2 16 1 27
Engineering/Industrial Management 1 1
English Language and Literature, General 6 1 5 71 6 89
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies 1 1 5 7
Environmental Studies 1 1 16 2 20
Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering 1 1 2
Epidemiology 2 2 1 2 7 1 15
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, and Gender Studies, Other 1 1
Fashion/Apparel Design 2 2 2 11 1 18
Film/Cinema Studies 1 8 3 12
Finance, General 13 6 2 12 69 4 106
Financial Planning and Services 5 5
Fine/Studio Arts, General 1 12 1 14
French Language and Literature 2 2 2 2 8
Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences, Other
Geology/Earth Science, General 2 19 1 22
Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General 6 1 15 1 23
Graphic Design 1 10 3 14
Health Services Administration 3 3
Hebrew Language and Literature
History, General 1 9 3 4 40 6 63
Hospital and Health Care Facilities Administration/Management 4 3 5 16 28
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General 3 1 11 2 17
Humanities/Humanistic Studies 1 1
Illustration 2 1 3 3 4 13
Immunology 1 1 2 5 9
Industrial and Organizational Psychology 2 2
International Business/Trade/Commerce 2 1 1 3 7
International Relations and Affairs 1 13 3 17
Italian Language and Literature
Japanese Language and Literature 1 1 5 1 8
Jewish/Judaic Studies 3 3
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching 1 1
Law (LL 8 15 4 21 2 155 49 254
Legal Professions and Studies, Other 14 1 1 2 3 21
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies 5 5
Marketing/Marketing Management, General 1 3 2 11 33 4 54
Materials Engineering 1 2 3
Mathematics, General 4 3 3 2 22 3 37
Mechanical Engineering 5 2 5 64 8 84
Medical Scientist (MS, PhD) 1 2 3
Medicine (MD) 2 5 5 36 2 68 8 126
Microbiological Sciences and Immunology, Other 7 1 8
Molecular Biophysics 2 1 3
Molecular Genetics 2 7 9
Movement Therapy and Movement Education 1 1
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other 1 3 2 1 17 5 29
Music, General 1 1 1 2 10 1 16
Near and Middle Eastern Studies 1 3 2 6
Neuroscience 1 1 1 7 10
Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management 1 2 1 15 1 20
Occupational Therapy/Therapist 3 1 32 3 39
Painting 1 1 8 1 11
Philosophy 1 1 14 1 17
Photography 2 2 4
Physical Therapy/Therapist 2 2 1 5 1 61 72
Physics, General 15 12 2 29
Political Science and Government, General 7 9 1 2 66 13 98
Printmaking 11 2 13
Psychology, General 5 20 6 15 120 18 184
Religion/Religious Studies 1 2 3
Science Teacher Education/General Science Teacher Education 1 4 5
Sculpture 2 3 11 16
Secondary Education and Teaching
Social Sciences, Other 2 1 1 10 2 16
Social Work 36 17 9 10 7 100 12 191
Spanish Language and Literature 3 2 2 15 2 24
Statistics, General 2 2
Structural Engineering 2 1 5 1 9
Systems Engineering 3 1 1 13 3 21
Tax Law/Taxation (LL 3 7 10
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other 1 1 16 18
Transportation and Highway Engineering 1 1
Women's Studies 4 8 1 13
Total 478 232 102 318 18 2,257 318 3,723

Faculty Compensation / Salaries

Washington University in St Louis Ranks 48th for the average full-time faculty salary.

Tenure system Yes
Average FT Salary $101,014 ($110,988 male / $79,390 female)
Number of FT Faculty 773 (529 male / 244 female)
Number of PT Faculty 576
FT Faculty Ratio 1 : 1
Total Benefits $16,959,881
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