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A&S CREATES Cohort Experience

A unique transdisciplinary experience for doctoral students

A&S CREATES (Arts & Sciences Cohort Recruitment and Transdisciplinary Experiences) is a unique approach to academic growth that fosters an environment where doctoral students can collaborate across disciplines and move beyond traditional learning boundaries.

An initiative of the Office of Graduate Studies in Arts & Sciences, this program redefines the academic journey, offering incoming PhD students an expanded, cross-departmental learning community and supercharged possibilities for research collaboration, as well as a platform to translate their scholarly research for new audiences.

Each year, A&S CREATES will introduce a new cohort theme selected and designed by faculty colleagues. Cohort themes are broad, though they align with areas of faculty strength; field trends or spaces for innovation; connect to the A&S Strategic Plan; and can enhance our doctoral programs’ distinction. Each cohort’s experiences will run for approximately two years.

For more information on the cohort themes, please see the following pages:

2024-2026 Theme: Public Scholarship   2025-2027: Health, Environment, and Technology

Why participate in the A&S CREATES cohort experience?

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Transdisciplinary Learning

Collaborate across disciplines for a holistic learning experience that transcends traditional academic boundaries.

students sitting

Become part of a cross-departmental community

Forge enduring connections and a robust peer network with students across Arts & Sciences.

Mentors of the Graduate Cohort Experience at WashU standing in front of a building.

Esteemed Faculty Mentorship

Learn under the guidance of highly regarded faculty members who provide support and mentorship throughout your academic journey.

Real-world Experience

Equip yourself with practical experience and robust communication skills to discuss your work confidently with diverse audiences.

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Lasting Impact

Shape your future as a changemaker. Your work through A&S CREATES will have a lasting impact on not just your career but society as a whole.

How to join an A&S CREATES cohort?

To express your interest in participating, please contact the Director of Graduate Studies for your specific program. You can find the enrollment form in Slate, the graduate admissions application system.

Future Cohort Themes:

In the upcoming years, A&S CREATES aims to delve deeper into various socially relevant themes, each designed to offer a comprehensive transdisciplinary exploration of challenges and questions that span knowledge areas, historical moments, and geographies.

  • Race, Power, and Politics
  • Science, Medicine & Human Hopes
  • Cultural Patrimony & Global Exchange
  • Communication, Cultures & Creative Industries
  • AI & Society
  • Health, Democracy & (Mis)Trust

Feel free to contact William Acree, Vice Dean of Interdisciplinary Initiatives and Innovation, with any questions regarding A&S CREATES.