The graduate certificate in women’s, gender, and sexuality studies (WGSS) is offered to students currently enrolled in MA and PhD degree programs at GW other than WGSS and to qualified non-degree students who have at least a bachelor's degree. The program provides students with an opportunity to think and learn about gender in a systematic and integrated manner from a variety of methodological approaches. The certificate is designed to provide an interdisciplinary course of study on women and gender to enrich a student's disciplinary or professional training.

Visit the program website for additional information.

Admission deadlines:

Fall – April 1

Standardized test scores: 

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the academic International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the PTE Academic is required of all applicants except those who hold a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a college or university in the United States or from an institution located in a country in which English is the official language, provided English was the language of instruction. 

Minimum scores for the program are:

  • Academic IELTS: an overall band score of 7.0 with no individual score below 6.0; or
  • TOEFL: 600 on paper-based or 100 on Internet-based;  or
  • PTE Academic: 68

Recommendations required:

One recommendation required.

Prior academic records:

Transcripts are required from all colleges and universities attended, whether or not credit was earned, the program was completed, or the credit appears as transfer credit on another transcript. Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended must be uploaded to your online application. Official transcripts are required only of applicants who are offered admission.

If transcripts are in a language other than English, English language translations must be provided. The English translation alone should be uploaded into your application.

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 a teaching assistantship or fellowship, also describe an teaching experience you have had.

International applicants only:

Please follow this link - https://columbian.gwu.edu/international-graduate-applicants - to review the International Applicant Information carefully for details on required documents and English language requirements. Please note: international students who require a student visa from GW are not eligible to apply for admission to the program.

For more information on the admission process, please visit the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences Frequently Asked Questions page.

Supporting documents not submitted online should be mailed to:

Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Office of Graduate Studies
The George Washington University
801 22nd Street NW, Phillips Hall 107
Washington DC 20052

For additional information about the admissions process visit the Columbian College  of Arts and Sciences Frequently Asked Questions page.

Contact:

askccas@gwu.edu
202-994-6210 (phone)

Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday


 

Required
WGSS 6220Fundamentals of Feminist Theory
WGSS 6221Research Issues in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Electives
6 credits in elective courses selected from graduate-level Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) courses and/or courses from other departments in consultation with the advisor.