University of Puget Sound
The Vibe Check
The University of Puget Sound feels like an intimate, intellectually rigorous liberal arts campus nestled in a vibrant urban setting. Students often describe the atmosphere as collaborative rather than competitive, with a strong sense of community fostered by small class sizes and engaged faculty. The Pacific Northwest setting encourages an active, outdoorsy lifestyle while maintaining a focused academic energy.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Puget Sound is known for its strong programs in the social sciences, business, and natural sciences, emphasizing interdisciplinary study and hands-on learning. The curriculum is taught through a close-knit, seminar-style format where professors prioritize mentorship and undergraduate research opportunities. Students benefit from the university's commitment to experiential education, including internships and off-campus study programs.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Tacoma
Students enjoy Tacoma's growing arts scene, with visits to the Museum of Glass and the Tacoma Art Museum being popular weekend activities. The city's proximity to Mount Rainier and Puget Sound offers easy access to hiking, skiing, and water sports. On campus, students gather for a cappella concerts, Loggers athletics events, and exploring the nearby 6th Avenue district for coffee shops and local eateries.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($69,594):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in a residential neighborhood with a visible security presence and is considered very safe, with low crime rates. Tacoma's city-wide safety is generally good, though students are advised to practice standard urban awareness, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong, dedicated faculty who prioritize undergraduate teaching and mentorship
- ✓ Beautiful, residential campus in a city with growing cultural and outdoor amenities
- ✓ High retention rate (80.5%) indicating a satisfied and engaged student body
- ✓ Excellent study abroad and internship programs integrated into the curriculum
Cons
- ✗ High tuition cost requires significant financial planning and debt management
- ✗ Tacoma's urban setting may feel isolated compared to major metropolitan hubs like Seattle
- ✗ Pell Grant rate (16.7%) is relatively low, suggesting a less socioeconomically diverse student body
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
University of Puget Sound is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum, particularly in the social sciences, business, and biology. It is also recognized for its unique programs like Arctic Studies and the School of Music, as well as its commitment to experiential learning in the Pacific Northwest environment.
With an acceptance rate of 76.28%, University of Puget Sound is considered moderately selective. The middle 50% SAT range is approximately 1200-1450, so applicants with strong academics and a compelling personal essay have a good chance of admission.
Campus life is characterized by a close-knit community where students are actively involved in clubs, athletics, and the arts. The residential campus fosters strong social connections, and students frequently engage in outdoor activities and explore Tacoma's cultural offerings.
The investment can be worthwhile for students who leverage the strong alumni network and experiential learning opportunities. With a median 10-year earnings of $69,594 and a solid graduation rate, the ROI is positive compared to national averages, especially if scholarships reduce the net price.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1888
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 1,769
- In-State Tuition $59,900
- Zip Code 98416
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a sticker price over $59,000, the net price of $38,920 is still a significant investment, but the 10-year median earnings of $69,594 suggest a solid return for a private liberal arts degree. The 76% acceptance rate indicates it's not overly selective, but the 72% graduation rate is respectable, ensuring a good portion of students complete their degree on time. Prospective students should aggressively pursue merit aid and institutional scholarships to lower the net cost and improve the value proposition.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.