In this article, we’ll keenly list the top colleges in Washington and their distinguishing factors. Washington D.C. holds the crown as one of the most prestigious cities to study in the United States. Home to US Federal government, Washington DC remains a perfect study destination for various reasons. In this article, you’ll find out the best colleges in Washington and what makes them outstanding. Stay with me!
Why Should I Study In Washington?
Washington State is a favorite choice of national, international students and professionals looking for high-quality and affordable education. The State offers education in a safe, clean, and friendly environment. Washington is renowned for its natural beauty, opportunities for outdoor adventure, and live music scene. In Washington State, you will find a program for every educational need, from technical training to doctoral programs. Furthermore, the state also avails you of the choice of choosing from more than forty public and private universities, four-year colleges, two-year community colleges, and English language schools. Each school makes it easy for students to undergo programs and also build a successful educational and professional career. The state of Washington has many amazing features:
How Many Colleges Are In Washington?
Washington state is home to six public four-year colleges and universities and more than 300 independent colleges, universities, and career schools.
How Much Is College In Washington?
The cost of college in Washington differs according to the institution. However, the average annual in-state college tuition in Washington is $12,739. This is $1,668 lower than the U.S. average and ranks Washington in the middle of the pack as the 29th most expensive and 24th most affordable state or district to attend college.
How To Qualify As A Resident Student In Washington
To qualify as a resident student, state law requires that you establish an authentic domicile in the state of Washington for a period of one year, for purposes other than educational, prior to the start of the semester or quarter for which you intend to register.
List Of The Best Colleges In Washington State
There are obviously wonderful colleges in Washington. However, for the purpose of this piece, we’ll be listing the best colleges in Washington State in their order of ranking. These best colleges in Washington state were selected based on certain ranking criteria; Acceptance rate, Tuition rate, Accreditation, Graduation rate, Reputation, and Number of Programs.
1. University of Washington
UW is one of the world’s preeminent public universities. Established in 1861, the University of Washington is a non-profit public higher education institution positioned in the urban setting of the medium-sized city of Seattle, Washington. This institution has also branch campuses in the following location(s): Bothell, Tacoma. Officially accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the University of Washington is a very large institution with over 54,000 students annually. Furthermore, UW offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. With an acceptance rate of 50-60%, the University of Washington offers over 150 programs. For local undergraduate students, the tuition rate is around 10,000-12,500 US$ (7,400-9,200 Euro) and over 20,000 US$ (14,700 Euro) for international students. For local graduate students, the tuition rate falls between 10,000-12,500 US$ (7,400-9,200 Euro) while international graduate students payover 20,000 US$ (14,700 Euro). To be gain admission, you need to take entrance examinations and tender past academic records and grades.
2. Washington State University
As one of America’s leading research universities, WSU offers 95 undergraduate majors, 86 minors, and more than 100 in-major specializations. There are nearly 150 graduate and professional degree programs. Officially accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, Washington State University accepts 30,000-34,999 students annually. With an admission rate of 80-90%, students who passed the entrance exams and possess a good academic record are welcome. For local undergraduate students, the tuition rate is around 10,000-12,500 US$ (7,400-9,200 Euro) and over 20,000 US$ (14,700 Euro) for international students. For local graduate students, the tuition rate falls between 7,500-10,000 US$ (5,500-7,400 Euro) while international graduate students pay over 20,000 US$ (14,700 Euro).
3. Western Washington University
Located in Bellingham, Western Washington University welcomes curious students. Officially accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, Western Washington University admits over 16,142 Students annually. Furthermore, with over 175 programs, Western Washington University (WWU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees in several areas of study. With an 80-90% acceptance rate, WWU’s student to faculty ratio is 18:1. The university also boasts 115,000+ graduates living and working around the world. This indeed shows that WWU is doing well. For local students, the tuition rate is around $6,543 and over $22,890 for international students.
4. The Evergreen State College
With a 96% acceptance rate, The Evergreen State College boasts of over 5,000-5,999 students. The accredited university offers a firsthand academic experience that spans across bachelor degrees, master’s degrees in several areas of study. To fit into any of the 60 available fields of study, you need to pass the entrance examinations and have a good academic record and grades. For local students, the tuition rate is around $7,000 and $25,300 per year for out-of-state residents.
5. Seattle University
Founded in 1891, Seattle University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the medium-sized city of Seattle. The university’s population is made up of more than 7,200 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs within eight schools and colleges. Officially accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, Seattle University offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees in several areas of study. With an acceptance rate of 70-80%, Seattle university stands to be highly competitive. Therefore, students are expected to pass their entrance examinations and have a good academic record. The tuition rate for undergraduate students is $47,565 and over $20,000 for graduate students.
6. Eastern Washington University
Eastern Washington University founded in 1882 is a non-profit public institution located in Cheney. With a 70- 80% acceptance rate, the university enrolls over 19,000 students annually. Eastern Washington University (EWU) offers 91 courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees in several areas of study. The accredited university also seeks to enhance access to higher education in the Inland Northwest and beyond by recruiting and supporting traditional college-bound students, non-traditional students, and the underprivileged. The in-state tuition rate is $7,461 while Washington residents pay $6,713 as tuition.
7. Gonzaga University
Gonzage University is a private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large town of Spokane. With an acceptance rate of 60-70%, the university enrolls over 9000 students annually. That is to say, the admission is really a competitive one. To gain admission, you need to pass the entrance exam and tender a strong academic record. Gonzaga University is on our list of best colleges in Washington State. GU offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. International applicants are eligible to apply. The Christian non-profit university offers 16 undergraduate degrees through 49 majors, 58 minors and 49 concentrations, 24 master’s degrees, and 5 doctoral-level degrees. For local undergraduate students, the tuition rate is around $20,000(14,700 Euro) and over 20,000 US$ (14,700 Euro) for international students. For local graduate students, the tuition rate falls between 12,500-15,000 US$ (9,200-11,000 Euro) while international graduate students pay over 12,500- 15,000 US$ (9,200-11, 000 Euro).
8. Central Washington University
Established in 1891, Central Washington University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the rural setting of the medium-sized town of Ellensburg. With an 80-90% acceptance rate, CWU has 20,000 students on their various campuses. The accredited university offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees in several areas of study. For local undergraduate students, the tuition rate is around $7,500- 10,000(5,500-7,400 Euro) and over 20,000 US$ (14,700 Euro) for international students. For local graduate students, the tuition rate falls between 7,500-10,000 US$ (5,500-7,400 Euro) while international graduate students pay over 17,500- 20,000 US$ (12,900-14, 700 Euro).
9. Bellevue College
Founded in 1966, Bellevue College is a non-profit public higher education institution located in Bellevue. Bellevue College enrolls 32,000 students each year. The accredited college offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees in several areas of study. To apply for admission, you need to pay an application fee of $55. This higher education institution does not have a selective admission policy. For local undergraduate students, the tuition rate is around $2,500- 5,000(1,800-3,700 Euro) and over 7,000-10,000 US$ (5,500-7,400 Euro) for international students. For local graduate students, the tuition rate falls between 20,000 US$ (14,700 Euro).
10. Seattle Pacific University
Seattle Pacific University is a Christian school with a renowned reputation for professors with knowledge and heart who care deeply about their students. With a 78% graduation rate, SPU enrolls 4,999 students annually. The accredited university offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees in several areas of study. With a student to faculty ratio of 13:1, the university offers; 71 undergraduate majors, 59 undergraduate minors, 31 Master’s degrees, 5 Doctoral degrees, and 8 Graduate certificates. For local undergraduate students, the tuition rate is around $20,000(14,700 Euro) and over 20,000 US$ (14,700 Euro) for international students. For local graduate students, the tuition rate falls between 17,500-20,000 US$ (12,900-14,700 Euro) while international graduate students pay over 17,500- 20,000 US$ (12,900-14, 700 Euro).
11. University of Puget Sound
Founded in 1888, the University of Puget Sound is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large town of Tacoma. The accredited university has a 70-80% acceptance rate which makes the institution highly selective. With over 2,600 students, the university offers 50+ traditional and interdisciplinary programs and 1,200 courses annually. For local undergraduate students, the tuition rate is around $20,000 (14,700 Euro) and over 20,000 US$ (14,700 Euro) for international students. For local graduate students, the tuition rate falls between 20,000US$ (14,700 Euro) while international graduate students pay over 20,000 US$ (14, 700 Euro)
12. Pacific Lutheran University
Established in 1890, Pacific Lutheran University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the large town of Tacoma. With a 70-80% acceptance rate, the university houses over 3,500 students annually. International students are eligible to apply. The tuition rate is $46,850.
13. Seattle Central College
For more than 50 years, Seattle Central has been training the citizens of Seattle and the surrounding region with the best programs of their kind anywhere, including college transfer, career training, continuing education, and basic studies. Seattle Central offers many high-quality, affordable programs — including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and professional certificates — that can help you reach your educational and career goals. SCC admits 10,000-14,999 students annually. Therefore, eligible national and international applicants are advised to apply.
14. Bastyr University
Bastyr University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the medium-sized town of Kenmore. BU offers courses and programs leading to recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation degrees), bachelor degrees, master’s degrees, doctorate degrees in different areas of study. For local undergraduate students, the tuition rate is around $17,500- 20,000(12,900-14,700 Euro) and over 17,500-20,000 US$ (12,900-14,700 Euro) for international students. Graduate students tuition rate falls between 20,000 US$ (14,700 Euro).
15. Walla Walla University
Established in 1892, Walla Walla University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the small town of College Place. Exceptional education at WWU starts with the integration of faith and learning in small classes offering individualized attention from dedicated professors. The university prepares students for successful lives and careers through rigorous internships, global study tours and partnerships, and hands-on learning in rigorous academic settings. WWU is fully accredited and awards more than 100 areas of study in professional and technical programs and the liberal arts. The small campus setting enhances student learning through regular interaction across disciplines. For local undergraduate students, the tuition rate is around $20,000(14,700 Euro) and over 17,500-20,000 US$ (12,900-14,700 Euro) for international students. On the other hand, graduate students tuition rate falls between 20,000 US$ (14,700 Euro).
16. Whitworth University
Whitworth University is a private, residential, liberal arts institution affiliated with the Presbyterian church. The university’s mission is to equip its diverse student body with an education of the mind and the heart, furnishing its graduates to honor God, follow Christ, and serve humanity. Whitworth is a nationally ranked, private Christian liberal arts university in Spokane, Washington. It maintains an 11:1 student to faculty ratio. Recognized as one of the top regional colleges and universities in the West, Whitworth University has an enrollment of more than 3,000 students and offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. In recent years, Whitworth has relished record levels of student enrollment and retention, the strongest financial position in the university’s history, and increased external visibility. The admission rate range is 70-80% which makes it highly competitive. International students are eligible to apply. For local undergraduate students, the tuition rate is around $20,000 (14,700 Euro). Graduate student’s tuition rate falls between 15,000- 17,500 US$ (11,000-12,900 Euro).
17. Heritage University
Heritage University is an accredited, private institution offering various academic programs and degrees. At Heritage, a college education is made accessible to anyone with the talent and drive to pursue a degree — regardless of economics, culture, or geographic location. You can earn a college degree, even with busy work and home life. That is to say, most of our undergraduate courses are offered during the evenings, and graduate courses are offered on the weekends. In addition to the main campus located in Toppenish, Washington, Heritage University has regional sites in Tri-Cities on the Columbia Basin College campus. The admission rate range is 80-90% making this higher center of learning a least selective institution. International students are welcome to apply for admission. For local undergraduate students, the tuition rate is around $20,000 (14,700 Euro). For graduate students, the tuition rate falls between 5,000- 7,500 US$ (3,700-5,500 Euro).
18. Northwest University
Northwest University is a regionally accredited, Christian institution awarding associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Located in Kirkland, Washington prepares students to lead in their careers and offers a variety of degree programs to meet the needs of an ever-changing society. This 86 years old higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students’ past academic records and grades. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. For local undergraduate students, the tuition rate is around $20,000 (14,700 Euro). For graduate students, the tuition rate falls between 15,000- 17,500 US$ (11,000-12,900 Euro).
19. City University of Seattle
Since 1973, the City University of Seattle has been relentlessly modifying higher education in the Pacific Northwest and around the world. As an accredited, private, nonprofit university, City University of Seattle provides career-relevant education to busy professionals who want to advance their careers and compete in the global marketplace. Today, CityU is recognized as a Top 10 educator of adults nationwide, offering over 60 degree and certificate programs in business, leadership, education, project management, health, and human services, and computer and information systems. Whether students study on-site or online, they learn from practitioner faculty and network with alumni employed at Seattle’s top companies.
20. Centralia College
As the oldest two-year public college in Washington (founded in 1925), Centralia College has a rich heritage of transfer, workforce, and basic skills programs. Centralia College is officially accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Conclusion
Home to the US Federal government, Washington DC remains an awesome study destination for college students. Therefore, a peep through this article will give you a clear list of the best colleges in Washington state. The cost of college in Washington differs according to the institution. However, the average annual in-state college tuition in Washington is $12,739. Washington state is home to six public four-year colleges and universities and more than 300 independent colleges, universities, and career schools. To qualify as a resident student, state law requires that you establish an authentic domicile in the state of Washington for a period of one year, for purposes other than educational, prior to the start of the semester or quarter for which you intend to register.
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