The Arts & Sciences Strategic Plan launched with eight signature initiatives, which built on our school’s existing strengths to create transformative new ventures. Each one represented a powerful convergence of units, disciplines, and areas of study, encouraging new levels of transdisciplinary collaboration.
 

Center for Quantum Leaps (CQL)

In collaboration with the McKelvey School of Engineering and WashU Medicine, CQL harnesses new quantum technologies to develop and customize breakthroughs in key research areas.

Center for the Literary Arts (CLA)

CLA explores all the ways in which literary art and creative practice can change the world. The initiative invites nationally renowned authors and editors to campus to provide advice to WashU students, and a Creative Practice Workshop supports faculty members as they refine creative works for publication.

Incubator for Transdisciplinary Futures (ITF)

ITF inspires and supports innovative transdisciplinary research to advance new discoveries and thinking, shaping a bold vision for the university of the future. This includes funding groundbreaking research teams and fostering engaging community conversations.

Literacies for Life and Career (LLC)

This initiative highlights the enduring skills that make the full value of an Arts & Sciences education more tangible, preparing undergraduate students for future lives as leaders, innovators, and citizens of the world.

Living Earth Collaborative (LEC)

A one-of-a-kind partnership between WashU, the Missouri Botanical Garden, and the Saint Louis Zoo, LEC is a research-focused consortium dedicated to advancing biodiversity science and education.

Office of Public Scholarship (OPS)

Originally launched as the Program in Public Scholarship, OPS helps WashU scholars translate research and creative work for audiences beyond the university. Based on its rapid success, the program moved to the Office of the Provost in Fall 2025, expanding its support to all WashU schools.

Program in Public Health & Society (PH&S)

By combining the intellectual rigor of an Arts & Sciences degree with hands-on professional training, the Program in Public Health & Society equips undergraduate students with the skills to build a healthier, more equitable world.

Transdisciplinary Institute in Applied Data Sciences (TRIADS)

TRIADS leverages emerging data science tools and techniques to better understand and address critical problems facing society today. The initiative also hosts data science events for the wider St. Louis community.