High-Performance Computing

The graduate certificate program in High-Performance Computing provides computational engineers and scientists up-to-date knowledge on the advances of computer systems in the face of today's rapidly growing use of multicore processors, parallel computers, hardware accelerators and networked computing platforms in applications. 

All courses are held in-person on GW's main campus in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood of Washington, D.C. Courses are typically held in the late afternoon or early evening to accommodate working professionals.

Program Requirements

The program is comprised of 12 credit hours completed through four courses:

  • Introduction to High-Performance Computing
  • One of the following:
    • Parallel Computer Architecture
    • Grid and Network Computing
  • Two elective courses within the department

Download Courses (PDF)

Admissions Requirements

Prospective students must fulfill the certificate admissions requirements through submission of a complete online application form and other documents as listed by the deadlines noted.

Please note: First-time international applicants may not apply directly to a certificate program. 

Current graduate students who wish to complete a certificate along with their master's or doctoral program must also follow the certificate admissions requirements, but may opt to have their transcripts and documents transferred from their previous application. Please contact [email protected] to make the request.

Current CCAS Graduate Students

Current students studying in the M.S. in Physics and PhD in Physics programs may be eligible to apply for this graduate certificate program. Students are encouraged to consult with their faculty advisor before following the steps below to officially apply to the program. 

Steps to Applying: 

  1. Consult with your faculty advisor
  2. Complete the CCAS Dual Enrollment Application Form
  3. Submit the formal application form
  4. If you do not receive an admissions decision within 5 business days after submitting the application form, please email [email protected]

Transfer to Master's Program

Upon successful completion of a certificate program, students have the option to transfer credits to a full master's program at the School of Engineering & Applied Science, pending successful completion of the master's program admissions requirements

Please note: You must receive a B or higher in each course in order for it to transfer. Additionally, you must submit a new application for the selected master's program and provide the required documents and exam scores listed as part of the master's program admissions requirements.

For any questions, please contact [email protected].