1.1 Welcome from the WSU Graduate School
The WSU Graduate School
The Graduate School is here for you, the graduate student. We are a service unit focused on three missions:
- to fully support graduate education and the graduate community through service to students, faculty, and staff;
- to advocate for graduate education across the WSU system, and;
- to provide oversight of graduate programs through assessment, review, and promotion of best practices in graduate education.
The Graduate School facilitates robust training environments meant to help you compete and achieve success in your career long after graduation, wherever the road might take you. We also oversee policies and procedures for graduate education across the entire WSU system, which includes six campuses. Our advocacy for graduate education includes creating opportunities for graduate students’ professional development and promoting financial support for students. The Graduate School’s leadership and staff members embrace opportunities to collaborate with current and prospective students, alumni, faculty, WSU staff, degree-granting programs, departments, colleges, and WSU administrative leadership.
The Graduate School office is located on the Pullman campus in the French Administration Building, Room 324. Our staff is here to help you. If you have any questions, contact us by emailgradschool@wsu.eduor phone: 509-335-6424. Visit our websitegradschool.wsu.edu.
Learn the WSU Fight Song!
There is nothing quite like the spirit and camaraderie of Coug Nation, and that is exemplified by our enthusiastic singing of the WSU fight song.https://www.youtube.com/embed/lsts113KwEk
A brief introduction to the history and accomplishments of WSU
This video, courtesy of the University Marketing and Communications team, captures many highlights of the accomplishments of WSU statewide.
1.2 About the Pacific Northwest
Washington state comprises mountains, plains, rivers, and rolling hills, making it a hub for a wonderful array of outdoor activities. There are four mountain ranges dominating the Pacific Northwest, including the Cascade, Olympic, and Coastal Ranges, and parts of the Rocky Mountains. The Columbia River system, which begins in Idaho and British Columbia, flows through the Cascade Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. The unique Palouse region on the eastern side of the state is known for its rich agriculture and magnificent beauty. Washington state is the #1 apple-producing state, #2 in potatoes, #5 in wheat production, and produces more than 80 varieties of grapes.
In general, Washington has two major climate zones, one on each side of the state. The west side is generally mild with cool winters and warm summers. You might want to invest in a good umbrella and durable rain jacket if you’re on the Vancouver or Everett campus, or one of the research and extension centers west of the Cascades.
Be prepared for the weather!
The east side of the state (Pullman, Tri-Cities, and Spokane campuses) typically enjoys four distinct seasons with snow in winter and hot days in summer. Snow gear is pretty much a necessity here, so you can take advantage of all the winter activities! And in the summer, a short drive will take you to any one of the rivers for some much needed boat, fishing, or beach time. Fall is great for camping!
Explore!
You can probably cross some items off your Bucket List by spending time in the Pacific Northwest.
This video captures the beauty of the Palouse region on the eastern side of Washington, highlighting the rolling hills, expansive fields of grain and spectacular scenery that is a part of everyday life at WSU
1.3 Information resources
The WSU Graduate Schoolwebsiteis designed to answer most of your questions, from deadlines and procedures for various steps in your graduate career to opportunities for professional development and applying for scholarships. You will find the Graduate Schoolpolicies and procedures., postings for assistantships andfunding opportunities, and all theformsyou need tonavigate your degreeprogram.
In addition to the Graduate School website, our staff is always here to help you. Visit thestaff directoryto locate the person or people who can answer your questions, or call ahead, 509-335-6424, to schedule an appointment. If you are not sure whom to contact, you can email us atgradschool@wsu.edu. If you want to drop by the Graduate School office at WSU Pullman, we are located in the French Administration building, Room 324. We are here to serve you!
Friday Focus Newsletter
Every Friday, the Graduate School communications team emails the Friday Focus newsletter to all current graduate students. The newsletter contains a summary of items we hope you find useful, such as new assistantship and fellowship opportunities, professional development events, deadlines and announcements, and cultural and family friendly events. Be sure to subscribe to the Friday Focus newsletter and then check your WSU email. If you are not receiving the newsletter every Friday, email Cindy Hollenbeck atcjhollenbeck@wsu.edu.
Graduate and Professional Student Association (GPSA)
TheGPSAprovides graduate students a voice in what happens at WSU and advocates for graduate and professional students at local, state, and federal levels. This advocacy is intended to increase affordability and accessibility of graduate education. While all WSU graduate students are members of GPSA, the organization has elected senators from each department as well as college-level representatives. Senators serve as the communications link to reach students across the WSU system. The GPSA vision works to enrich the student experience academically, professionally, and socially. Examples of GPSA efforts include hosting social activities, providing students outreach opportunities, and academic and professional support services.
GPSA Monday Minute Newsletter
The GPSA newsletter is sent via email the last Monday of every month and is packed with timely information to help plan your schedule. Find out about events, funding opportunities, and ways to get involved on campus and in the community.Contact us.
