GWU's HRD Program was awarded Outstanding HRD Academic Program of the Year
by the Academy of Human Resource Development in March, 2004. This award is given to an outstanding human resource development academic program based on a continuous record of excellence.

The award criteria include:

* Number of faculty who identify themselves as HRD faculty

* Depth of HRD courses

* Progressive/innovative curriculum and courses

* Publications by faculty and graduate students

* Reputation of the HRD program and its ability to attract high quality students

* Placement of students in leadership roles