Western Washington University
Innovate. Engage. Lead. The Pacific Northwest's top public university.
📍 Bellingham, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #287 in United States · QS World #1401 · THE World #601
Quick Facts about Western Washington University
- Founded: 1893
- Type: Public
- Students: 14,651
- International: 1%
- Campus: Suburban
- Tuition: $22,890 – $28,000/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
- Intakes: January, March, September, November
About Western Washington University
Academics
WWU offers over 200 academic programs, including bachelor's and master's degrees, with a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences. Notable programs include Environmental Science through the Huxley College of the Environment, Business Administration, Education via the Woodring College of Education, and various Visual and Performing Arts disciplines. The university is also recognized for its strong philosophy department and programs in computer science and engineering. WWU emphasizes student engagement with faculty, staff, and the community, fostering informed, engaged, and creative graduates.
International Students
Western Washington University welcomes international students from over 35 countries, with 150-200 international and exchange students attending each year. The International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office provides support and promotes cross-cultural exchange, offering advising and resources. While international students make up a small percentage of the total student body, scholarships up to $10,000 per year are available. The university also has an International Buddy Program to help new international students transition to campus and Bellingham life.
Campus & Location
WWU's main campus is situated on 215 acres in Bellingham, Washington, overlooking Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands. Bellingham is a medium-sized city offering a balance of urban activities and access to outdoor recreation, often recognized as a top city for outdoor enthusiasts. The campus itself is picturesque with green spaces and hiking trails, and is located about 90 miles north of Seattle and 55 miles south of Vancouver, British Columbia. On campus, students can find a variety of clubs and organizations, dining options, and access to the Wade King Student Recreation Center.
Career Outcomes
Western Washington University graduates have a strong employment rate, with approximately 86% employed six months after earning their degree. Fields like nursing, computer science, and engineering often report higher immediate employment rates. The university's Career Services Center offers resources such as workshops on international careers and mock interview practices to help students prepare for the workforce. The median salary for graduates one year after graduation is around $36,427, increasing to $45,519 five years after graduation.
Information for International Students at Western Washington University
Western Washington University in Bellingham, United States welcomes international students, with 1% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 1% of students are international
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available (~$1003/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Western Washington University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Western Washington University:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 79
- Duolingo minimum: 105
- GPA minimum: 3
- Application fee: $70
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: January 31
Programs at Western Washington University (21 programs)
Western Washington University offers 21 programs across Bachelor, Master levels.
Bachelor Programs (15)
- Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr
Students examine social structures, interactions, and institutions. The program covers topics such as inequality, crime, family, and social change, fostering critical analysis of society.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Policy Analyst, Market Researcher - Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr
Students examine social structures, interactions, and institutions. The program covers topics such as inequality, crime, family, and social change, fostering critical analysis of society.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Policy Analyst, Market Researcher - Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr · STEM
This program offers a comprehensive study of living organisms, from molecular to ecosystem levels. Students gain hands-on experience in labs and field research.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Environmental Scientist, Healthcare Professional - Accounting (BA) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr
This program prepares students for careers in public accounting, corporate accounting, and government. Students learn financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and business law.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Tax Preparer, Financial Analyst - Art (BA) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr
This program fosters creative expression and critical thinking through various artistic mediums. Students explore drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, and digital art.
Field: Arts
Career outcomes: Artist, Graphic Designer, Art Educator, Illustrator - Environmental Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr
This interdisciplinary program examines environmental issues from social, scientific, and humanistic perspectives. Students develop skills for addressing complex environmental challenges.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Conservationist, Policy Analyst, Educator - Mathematics (BSc) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr · STEM
Students develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills through the study of calculus, algebra, statistics, and discrete mathematics. The program prepares students for diverse quantitative careers.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Actuary, Data Analyst - History (BA) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr
This program examines past events, societies, and cultures, developing critical thinking and research skills. Students analyze primary and secondary sources to understand historical contexts.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Professional, Educator - Anthropology (BA) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr
Students explore human culture, society, and biology across time and space. The program covers cultural anthropology, archaeology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Museum Curator, Researcher, Community Organizer, Cultural Resource Manager - Journalism (BA) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr
Students learn to gather, write, and present news and information across various media platforms. The program emphasizes ethical reporting, critical thinking, and multimedia storytelling.
Field: Communication
Career outcomes: Reporter, Editor, Content Creator, Public Relations Specialist - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr
This program explores the scientific study of mind and behavior. Students learn about cognitive processes, social psychology, developmental psychology, and research methods.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Counselor (with further education), Researcher, Human Resources Specialist, Social Worker - Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in chemical principles, including organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry. Students gain extensive laboratory experience.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: Chemist, Research Scientist, Quality Control Analyst, Forensic Scientist - Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr
Students analyze political systems, institutions, and behaviors, both domestically and internationally. The program covers political theory, public policy, and international relations.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Lobbyist, Campaign Manager, Government Official - Kinesiology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the study of human movement, performance, and function. Students explore exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control, and sports psychology.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Exercise Physiologist, Physical Therapist Assistant, Coach, Fitness Professional - Physics (BSc) — 48 months · English · $28,000/yr · STEM
Students explore the fundamental laws of the universe, from classical mechanics to quantum physics. The program emphasizes problem-solving and experimental design.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: Physicist, Engineer, Data Scientist, Researcher
Master Programs (6)
- Environmental Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced training in environmental research, policy, and management. Students conduct original research and develop solutions to pressing environmental issues.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Policy Advisor, Conservation Manager, Researcher - Environmental Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced training in environmental research, policy, and management. Students conduct original research and develop solutions to pressing environmental issues.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Policy Advisor, Conservation Manager, Researcher - Business Administration (MBA) — 24 months · English · $35,000/yr
This program develops leadership and management skills for a dynamic business environment. Students gain expertise in finance, marketing, operations, and strategic management.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur, Marketing Director - Teaching (MEd) — 24 months · English · $29,000/yr
This program prepares aspiring educators for careers in K-12 schools. Students develop pedagogical skills, curriculum design expertise, and classroom management strategies.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, Educational Administrator, Curriculum Specialist, Instructional Designer - English (MA) — 24 months · English · $29,000/yr
Advanced study in literature, rhetoric, and critical theory. Students engage in in-depth textual analysis, scholarly research, and creative writing.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Educator, Communications Specialist - Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
Advanced study in computer science, focusing on areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students engage in research and complex project development.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, AI/ML Engineer, Research Scientist, Data Architect
Scholarships & Tuition at Western Washington University
Annual tuition for international students: $22,890 – $28,000/year
✅ Western Washington University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Western Washington University
- National Ranking: #287 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #1401
- Times Higher Education (THE): #601
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at Western Washington University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Suburban
- Average class size: 26
- Housing cost: ~$1003/month
Key Highlights
- Top regional public university
- Strong environmental science program
- Vibrant arts and humanities
- Bellingham Bay scenic campus
- Welcomes diverse international students
- Outdoor recreation paradise
Accreditation
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
- American Chemical Society
- American Speech and Hearing Association
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Computing Sciences Accreditation Board
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Notable Alumni
- Robert Angel
- Carrie Brownstein
- Drew Bledsoe
- Ryan Stiles
- Mark McGrath
Frequently Asked Questions about Western Washington University
What is Western Washington University?
Western Washington University is a public university located in Bellingham, United States, founded in 1893. It has approximately 14,651 students, with 1% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Western Washington University?
Tuition fees at Western Washington University for international students range from $22,890 – $28,000/year. Student housing costs approximately $1003/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Western Washington University?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 79. Duolingo minimum: 105. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $70. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: January 31.
What language are courses taught in at Western Washington University?
Courses at Western Washington University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does Western Washington University offer?
Western Washington University offers 21 programs: 15 Bachelor's, 6 Master's, and 0 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Western Washington University ranked?
#287 in United States · QS World #1401 · THE World #601.
Does Western Washington University offer scholarships?
Yes, Western Washington University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Western Washington University provide visa support?
Yes, Western Washington University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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