Western Washington University
The Vibe Check
Western Washington University offers a distinct Pacific Northwest experience, nestled between the Cascade Mountains and the Salish Sea. The campus feels like a lush, green sanctuary where students are deeply connected to the environment, often hiking or kayaking between classes. It fosters a laid-back, collaborative atmosphere that balances rigorous academics with a strong sense of community.
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
WWU is highly regarded for its environmental science and business programs, leveraging its unique location for hands-on learning. The university emphasizes undergraduate teaching and research, with small class sizes that allow for meaningful professor-student interactions. Students benefit from experiential learning opportunities through projects that address real-world regional issues.
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 Bellingham
Bellingham is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, with students frequenting nearby Lake Whatcom for kayaking and the Mount Baker ski area for snowboarding. The city's vibrant downtown offers a thriving craft brewery scene, eclectic shops, and a popular farmers market. The campus itself is a hub for social events, club meetings, and sustainability-focused activities.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($62,569):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
WWU's campus is considered very safe, with a dedicated university police department and well-lit pathways. The city of Bellingham is a generally safe, progressive community, though students should take standard precautions, especially in the downtown area at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Stunning location between mountains and ocean with endless outdoor recreation.
- ✓ Strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental stewardship.
- ✓ Excellent in-state tuition value for Washington residents.
- ✓ High student retention rate indicates a strong sense of community and satisfaction.
Cons
- ✗ Bellingham's remote location can feel isolated for students from major metropolitan areas.
- ✗ The climate is often gray and rainy, which may not suit everyone.
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher, making it less affordable for non-residents.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
WWU is most famous for its outstanding Environmental Science program, leveraging its unique location between the mountains and the sea. It is also highly respected for its College of Business and Economics, particularly in sustainable business practices. The university is known for its commitment to sustainability, experiential learning, and a strong sense of community.
No, Western Washington University has a high acceptance rate of 91.31%, making it an accessible option for many students. While admission is not highly selective, the university looks for students with a solid academic record, with an average SAT score around 1235. A strong personal statement and demonstrated interest in the university's values can strengthen an application.
Campus life at WWU is defined by an active, outdoorsy, and environmentally conscious student body. With a 79.7% retention rate, students feel a strong sense of belonging and community. Students spend their free time exploring the surrounding nature, participating in over 200 student clubs, and engaging in campus events, all within a walkable and scenic campus.
For in-state students, WWU is an excellent financial investment, with an average net price of $18,680 and median earnings of $62,569 after ten years. The combination of low tuition, high graduation rates, and strong post-graduation earnings makes it a top value. For out-of-state students, the higher cost requires careful consideration, but the quality of the degree and the unique location can still provide a positive return on investment.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 15,150
- In-State Tuition $9,286
- Out-of-State $27,853
- Zip Code 98225
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state tuition under $10,000, WWU offers exceptional value for Washington residents, making it one of the most affordable universities in the state. The 10-year median earnings of $62,569 suggest a strong return on investment, outpacing the national average. For out-of-state students, the higher tuition requires more financial planning, but the quality of education and location can still justify the cost.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.