GW Engineering’s graduate population has expanded its domestic reach, with this year’s incoming class coming from 49 states, up from just 22 last year. This surge reflects our growing stature as a national destination, where technical research intersects with unprecedented access to partnerships, potential, and policy.
As a member of the Association of American Universities, GW has a nationally recognized research enterprise that continues to grow in momentum. GW Engineering itself is up 53% in research funding over the last three years, drawing graduate students from across the country with the opportunity to work alongside faculty at the cutting edge of their fields through hands-on research.
Being located in the heart of Washington, D.C., remains another key draw for students, thanks to the experiences it affords. Though Bashir Gregory Davis, a graduate student studying cybersecurity with a focus in computer science, may not be far from his childhood home in Reston, Virginia, moving to D.C. puts him just steps away from world-class opportunities.
“In terms of applied sciences and technical work, GW is outstanding. We’re right here in the heartland of the capital, so the ability to network is key. So is the ability to learn as much as you can and really put your hands on different tasks,” Davis said.
This national growth is mirrored by GW Engineering’s longstanding global draw. Graduate students from around the world, like Ibrahim Ahmed, a systems engineering student from Nigeria, make the move to D.C. for the same reasons: to seize the learning and career opportunities offered at GW Engineering.
“I chose GW Engineering for two reasons. Number one is access to seizing academics in my domain, and number two is location,” said Ahmed. “It’s situated in D.C., and by virtue of that, it connects me to industry, meaning not only companies but also policymakers because there’s no engineering unless it can be translated into policies.”
Geographical diversity isn’t just a point of pride, but it tangibly shapes learning, as unique perspectives bring critical insights to solving complex problems. The innovators who are called here leave with truly applicable skills and a strong global network, helping strengthen the school's institutional prestige and long-term impact.