Throughout our science curriculum we emphasize the excitement of discovery and the development of individual creativity and critical reasoning skills. Students learn science by active inquiry and experimentation, and they are mentored by professors—no teaching assistants here—whose first priority is to teach.
Collaborative research opportunities are the hallmark of science education at Washington College. The John Toll Fellows Program coordinates all science research opportunities. Research grants are available to support collaborative student-faculty summer research in departments in the Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. At the conclusion of the 10-week program, student researchers present their findings in the fall at the Student Academic Showcase and many students also present their research at regional and national conferences.
For students in the sciences, seniors often conduct research as part of the Senior Capstone Experience, which is required of all its graduating seniors. Such research projects are the culmination of the skills and methodology acquired over the course of four years of study.