Academics

Academics

We prepare the leaders of tomorrow, enhance the culture of entrepreneurship and innovation, and improve the global quality of life through groundbreaking discoveries by fostering robust collaboration between faculty and students. Our graduate students are provided with substantial financial support, allowing them time to focus on academics and participate in intellectual activities outside of the classroom. 

Mentored Experience(s)

Mentored Experience(s)

Each department serves as the primary source of Mentored Experience(s): Mentored Teaching Experience (LGS 600) and Mentored Professional Experience (LGS 603).

learn more about Mentored Experiences

Dean's Award for Teaching Excellence

Graduate Students are recommended for this annual award by their department. Award recipients are publicized in the Commencement booklet in the year of their graduation.

Read about past winners and honorable mentions

Degree Requirements

PhD

  • maintain satisfactory academic progress
  • pass program-specific qualifying examination requirements
  • fulfill residence requirements
  • fulfill the program-specific teaching requirement
  • fulfill the University-wide teaching requirement (required for students admitted Fall 2004 or later)
  • write an acceptable dissertation
  • defend the dissertation before a committee of at least 5 members who normally meet two independent criteria. 
  • submit an electronic version of the dissertation online to the Graduate School

In addition, there may be a department or program specific PhD requirements.

 

Master's degree

  • complete the minimum units required; this will vary by program area
  • meet individual program requirements (required courses, courses from specific subject areas, and additional requirements)
  • fulfill residence requirement
  • maintain satisfactory academic progress
  • pass an examination which tests competence in the field of study for the "without thesis" option or prepare an acceptable thesis and successfully defend it before a committee of no fewer than 3 faculty members for the "with thesis" option

Any master's degree program can require a master's thesis, make the thesis optional or decline to offer a thesis option.

 

REVIEW ALL DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

 

Mapping Your PhD Journey

The WashU strategic roadmap outlines challenges, strategies, competencies and goals for doctoral students to pursue during three stages of graduate education in six key areas: research skills and knowledge, management and leadership, effectiveness and purpose, professionalism, communication, and career advancement.

 

Selected Resources

Find commonly used resources here, or browse our full list of resources

Academic Calendar

find dates for deadlines, holidays, and more

Academic Integrity (pdf)

the Graduate School academic and professional integrity policy

The Bulletin

consult WashU's catalog of programs and degree requirements

Guides

review graduate school guides, templates, handbooks & more

Academic Forms

the forms you need to complete your degree

Academic Policies & Procedures

review Graduate School academic policies and procedures

want to learn more?

Contact Us