Our Difference

The Rose O'Neill Literary House is home to the Writers Union and Writers Theatre, and hosts workshops in letterpress printing and bookmaking.

Centers of Excellence

The C.V. Starr Center for the Study of the American Experience draws upon the rich historical heritage of Chestertown to study American thought, culture and history.

Sparked by our proximity to the Chester River and the Chesapeake Bay, The Center for the Environment and Society conducts advanced ecological and archeological inquiry, and provides opportunities for public outreach and community involvement.

Student Research Grants

The Douglass Cater Society of Junior Fellows awards undergraduates, on a competitive basis, up to $4,000 for self-directed research anywhere in the world.

Writing Culture

The Sophie Kerr Prize. Each year Washington College awards the nation's largest undergraduate literary prize, attracting writers who enliven the literary culture. In addition to the student newspaper, The Elm, students publish two features magazines—The Collegian and The Medium—and a Broadsides poetry series. The Washington College Review and the International Studies Review are annual journals of exemplary academic work.

Global Perspectives

The 2005 George Washington Book Prize went to Ron Chernow, author of Alexander Hamilton. The $50,000 annual prize recognizes outstanding works contributing to a greater understanding of the life of George Washington and/or the nation's founding era.

The Office of International Programs develops top-quality study abroad opportunities for study on six continents, and includes such exotic locales as Morocco and South Africa. Special summer sessions are available too.

Waterfront Activities

The Chester River provides the setting for in environmental studies and nature writing, and a beautiful venue for varsity crew and sailing competition. Fishing, kayaking and waterboarding are popular leisure pursuits.

Capstone Learning Experience

All students complete the "Senior Obligation," a thesis, research project or creative work that demonstrates mastery of an important issue, and the student's ability to synthesize the concepts, theories and practices he or she has learned. The senior obligation is an opportunity for students to conduct in-depth research on a topic of particular personal interest, and may provide focus for post-graduate plans.