Seattle Pacific University
Faith, Reason, and Impact in Seattle.
📍 Seattle, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #269 in United States · THE World #352
Quick Facts about Seattle Pacific University
- Founded: 1891
- Type: Private Non-Profit
- Students: 2,261
- International: 4%
- Campus: Urban
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
- Intakes: September, January, March
About Seattle Pacific University
Seattle Pacific University (SPU) is a private Christian university located in Seattle, Washington, United States. Established in 1891, SPU emphasizes integrating rigorous academics with Christian faith to prepare students for vocations and to engage with the world.
Academics
SPU offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across three colleges: the College of Applied and Natural Sciences, the College of Business and Technology, and the College of Humanities, Education, and the Arts, alongside the Seattle Pacific Seminary. The teaching approach at SPU focuses on providing a transformative education where faculty translate their knowledge and passion into meaningful learning experiences. Notable programs include Nursing, Psychology, and Business, which are among the most popular majors. The university also offers an Honors program called University Scholars, allowing students to double major and engage in interdisciplinary studies centered on significant societal questions.
International Students
Seattle Pacific University has a small but active international student population, with approximately 180 undergraduate and 60 graduate students representing about 45 different countries. SPU welcomes students of all faith backgrounds, though it is a Christian university. English proficiency scores are not required for international students whose primary and secondary education took place in certain English-speaking countries. The Associated Students of Seattle Pacific (ASSP) offers over 30 clubs, including various cultural clubs, providing opportunities for international students to get involved and integrate culturally.
Campus & Location
SPU's urban campus spans 43 acres in Seattle, Washington. Seattle offers a vibrant city life with numerous attractions, and the campus itself features various academic buildings, residence halls, and dining facilities like Gwinn Commons. The university is located in the Queen Anne neighborhood, providing access to the city's amenities. Public transportation options are available, and the campus is within a short distance of popular spots like Kerry Park, offering views of the Seattle skyline.
Career Outcomes
Seattle Pacific University reports a strong career outcome rate, with 89% of graduates either employed or pursuing graduate studies within one year of graduation. The university's Center for Career and Calling provides extensive support, including career counseling, resume assistance, interview guidance, and connections to internship opportunities. SPU students have secured internships and employment at major companies in Seattle, such as Amazon, Alaska Airlines, Boeing, and Nordstrom. Graduates in fields like Computer Science and Registered Nursing tend to report some of the highest average salaries.
Information for International Students at Seattle Pacific University
Seattle Pacific University in Seattle, United States welcomes international students, with 4% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 4% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Seattle Pacific University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Seattle Pacific University:
- IELTS minimum: 7
- TOEFL minimum: 90
- Duolingo minimum: 105
- GPA minimum: 3
- Application fee: $50
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: January 15
Programs at Seattle Pacific University (60 programs)
Seattle Pacific University offers 60 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (39)
- Accounting (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
This program prepares students for careers in public accounting, corporate finance, and government by providing a strong foundation in financial reporting, auditing, and taxation.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Financial Analyst - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students explore human behavior and mental processes through scientific inquiry, preparing them for graduate studies or careers in counseling, social work, and human resources.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Counselor, Social Worker, Human Resources Specialist - Nursing (BScN) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
This rigorous program prepares students to become compassionate and competent registered nurses, focusing on patient care, health promotion, and evidence-based practice.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner (with further education), Clinical Nurse Specialist - Global Development Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students examine global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability, preparing them for careers in international development, non-profits, and social justice.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Development Worker, Policy Analyst, Non-profit Manager - Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the theoretical foundations of computation and practical skills in software development, algorithms, and data structures, essential for a career in technology.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Web Developer - Engineering (General) (BSc) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
This program provides a foundational understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving, and design, with opportunities to specialize in various engineering disciplines.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Engineer, Project Manager, Technical Consultant - Applied Human Development (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students explore the biological, cognitive, and psychosocial development of individuals across the lifespan, preparing them for careers in social services, education, and counseling.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Youth Counselor, Educator - Theology (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
This program offers a deep dive into Christian thought, history, and practice, preparing students for ministry, theological studies, or ethically-minded leadership roles.
Field: Theology
Career outcomes: Pastor, Youth Minister, Non-profit Leader - English (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
This program cultivates critical thinking, analytical writing, and literary interpretation skills, preparing students for careers in education, publishing, law, and communications.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Teacher, Lawyer (with further education) - Business Administration (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students gain a broad understanding of business principles, including management, marketing, finance, and operations, preparing them for leadership roles in various industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Specialist, Entrepreneur - Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
Students gain a deep understanding of chemical principles, laboratory techniques, and scientific inquiry, preparing them for careers in research, industry, or further graduate studies.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: Chemist, Research Scientist, Quality Control Analyst - History (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students explore past events, cultures, and societies, developing research, analytical, and interpretive skills applicable to diverse fields including education, law, and public service.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Educator, Policy Advisor - Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
This program offers a comprehensive study of living organisms, from molecular to ecosystem levels, with opportunities for research and preparation for health professions or graduate studies.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Scientist, Healthcare Professional - Accounting (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
This program prepares students for careers in public accounting, corporate finance, and government by providing a strong foundation in financial reporting, auditing, and taxation.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Financial Analyst - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students explore human behavior and mental processes through scientific inquiry, preparing them for graduate studies or careers in counseling, social work, and human resources.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Counselor, Social Worker, Human Resources Specialist - Nursing (BScN) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
This rigorous program prepares students to become compassionate and competent registered nurses, focusing on patient care, health promotion, and evidence-based practice.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner (with further education), Clinical Nurse Specialist - Global Development Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students examine global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability, preparing them for careers in international development, non-profits, and social justice.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Development Worker, Policy Analyst, Non-profit Manager - Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the theoretical foundations of computation and practical skills in software development, algorithms, and data structures, essential for a career in technology.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Web Developer - Engineering (General) (BSc) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
This program provides a foundational understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving, and design, with opportunities to specialize in various engineering disciplines.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Engineer, Project Manager, Technical Consultant - Applied Human Development (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students explore the biological, cognitive, and psychosocial development of individuals across the lifespan, preparing them for careers in social services, education, and counseling.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Youth Counselor, Educator - Theology (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
This program offers a deep dive into Christian thought, history, and practice, preparing students for ministry, theological studies, or ethically-minded leadership roles.
Field: Theology
Career outcomes: Pastor, Youth Minister, Non-profit Leader - English (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
This program cultivates critical thinking, analytical writing, and literary interpretation skills, preparing students for careers in education, publishing, law, and communications.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Teacher, Lawyer (with further education) - Business Administration (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students gain a broad understanding of business principles, including management, marketing, finance, and operations, preparing them for leadership roles in various industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Specialist, Entrepreneur - Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
Students gain a deep understanding of chemical principles, laboratory techniques, and scientific inquiry, preparing them for careers in research, industry, or further graduate studies.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: Chemist, Research Scientist, Quality Control Analyst - History (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students explore past events, cultures, and societies, developing research, analytical, and interpretive skills applicable to diverse fields including education, law, and public service.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Educator, Policy Advisor - Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
This program offers a comprehensive study of living organisms, from molecular to ecosystem levels, with opportunities for research and preparation for health professions or graduate studies.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Scientist, Healthcare Professional - Accounting (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
This program prepares students for careers in public accounting, corporate finance, and government by providing a strong foundation in financial reporting, auditing, and taxation.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Financial Analyst - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students explore human behavior and mental processes through scientific inquiry, preparing them for graduate studies or careers in counseling, social work, and human resources.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Counselor, Social Worker, Human Resources Specialist - Nursing (BScN) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
This rigorous program prepares students to become compassionate and competent registered nurses, focusing on patient care, health promotion, and evidence-based practice.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner (with further education), Clinical Nurse Specialist - Global Development Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students examine global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability, preparing them for careers in international development, non-profits, and social justice.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Development Worker, Policy Analyst, Non-profit Manager - Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the theoretical foundations of computation and practical skills in software development, algorithms, and data structures, essential for a career in technology.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Web Developer - Engineering (General) (BSc) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
This program provides a foundational understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving, and design, with opportunities to specialize in various engineering disciplines.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Engineer, Project Manager, Technical Consultant - Applied Human Development (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students explore the biological, cognitive, and psychosocial development of individuals across the lifespan, preparing them for careers in social services, education, and counseling.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Youth Counselor, Educator - Theology (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
This program offers a deep dive into Christian thought, history, and practice, preparing students for ministry, theological studies, or ethically-minded leadership roles.
Field: Theology
Career outcomes: Pastor, Youth Minister, Non-profit Leader - English (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
This program cultivates critical thinking, analytical writing, and literary interpretation skills, preparing students for careers in education, publishing, law, and communications.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Teacher, Lawyer (with further education) - Business Administration (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students gain a broad understanding of business principles, including management, marketing, finance, and operations, preparing them for leadership roles in various industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Specialist, Entrepreneur - Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
Students gain a deep understanding of chemical principles, laboratory techniques, and scientific inquiry, preparing them for careers in research, industry, or further graduate studies.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: Chemist, Research Scientist, Quality Control Analyst - History (BA) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr
Students explore past events, cultures, and societies, developing research, analytical, and interpretive skills applicable to diverse fields including education, law, and public service.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Educator, Policy Advisor - Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $54,960/yr · STEM
This program offers a comprehensive study of living organisms, from molecular to ecosystem levels, with opportunities for research and preparation for health professions or graduate studies.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Scientist, Healthcare Professional
Master Programs (15)
- Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced study in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software engineering, preparing students for leadership in the tech industry or further research.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, AI Specialist, Cybersecurity Analyst - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (MA) — 30 months · English · $27,000/yr
This program trains students to become licensed marriage and family therapists, focusing on systemic approaches to therapy and relational dynamics within families and couples.
Field: Counseling
Career outcomes: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Family Counselor, Clinical Supervisor - Master of Arts in Industrial-Organizational Psychology (MA) — 24 months · English · $28,000/yr · STEM
Students learn to apply psychological principles to workplace issues, focusing on talent management, organizational development, and employee well-being.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: I-O Psychologist, HR Consultant, Talent Management Specialist - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 21 months · English · $38,000/yr
This program develops strategic leadership and management skills, focusing on ethical decision-making, global business, and innovation to prepare graduates for executive roles.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: CEO, Director, Consultant - Master of Arts in Education (MA) — 24 months · English · $25,000/yr
This program offers advanced study in educational theory and practice, with specializations available in areas like curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, and special education.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Curriculum Specialist - Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced study in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software engineering, preparing students for leadership in the tech industry or further research.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, AI Specialist, Cybersecurity Analyst - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (MA) — 30 months · English · $27,000/yr
This program trains students to become licensed marriage and family therapists, focusing on systemic approaches to therapy and relational dynamics within families and couples.
Field: Counseling
Career outcomes: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Family Counselor, Clinical Supervisor - Master of Arts in Industrial-Organizational Psychology (MA) — 24 months · English · $28,000/yr · STEM
Students learn to apply psychological principles to workplace issues, focusing on talent management, organizational development, and employee well-being.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: I-O Psychologist, HR Consultant, Talent Management Specialist - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 21 months · English · $38,000/yr
This program develops strategic leadership and management skills, focusing on ethical decision-making, global business, and innovation to prepare graduates for executive roles.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: CEO, Director, Consultant - Master of Arts in Education (MA) — 24 months · English · $25,000/yr
This program offers advanced study in educational theory and practice, with specializations available in areas like curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, and special education.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Curriculum Specialist - Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced study in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software engineering, preparing students for leadership in the tech industry or further research.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, AI Specialist, Cybersecurity Analyst - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (MA) — 30 months · English · $27,000/yr
This program trains students to become licensed marriage and family therapists, focusing on systemic approaches to therapy and relational dynamics within families and couples.
Field: Counseling
Career outcomes: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Family Counselor, Clinical Supervisor - Master of Arts in Industrial-Organizational Psychology (MA) — 24 months · English · $28,000/yr · STEM
Students learn to apply psychological principles to workplace issues, focusing on talent management, organizational development, and employee well-being.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: I-O Psychologist, HR Consultant, Talent Management Specialist - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 21 months · English · $38,000/yr
This program develops strategic leadership and management skills, focusing on ethical decision-making, global business, and innovation to prepare graduates for executive roles.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: CEO, Director, Consultant - Master of Arts in Education (MA) — 24 months · English · $25,000/yr
This program offers advanced study in educational theory and practice, with specializations available in areas like curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, and special education.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Curriculum Specialist
PhD Programs (6)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) (DNP) — 36 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
This program prepares advanced practice nurses for leadership roles in healthcare, focusing on clinical expertise, systems leadership, and evidence-based practice improvement.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Healthcare Administrator - Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology (PhD) — 60 months · English · $35,000/yr
This doctoral program trains students to become licensed clinical psychologists, emphasizing research, assessment, and evidence-based therapeutic interventions.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Researcher, University Professor - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) (DNP) — 36 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
This program prepares advanced practice nurses for leadership roles in healthcare, focusing on clinical expertise, systems leadership, and evidence-based practice improvement.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Healthcare Administrator - Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology (PhD) — 60 months · English · $35,000/yr
This doctoral program trains students to become licensed clinical psychologists, emphasizing research, assessment, and evidence-based therapeutic interventions.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Researcher, University Professor - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) (DNP) — 36 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
This program prepares advanced practice nurses for leadership roles in healthcare, focusing on clinical expertise, systems leadership, and evidence-based practice improvement.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Healthcare Administrator - Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology (PhD) — 60 months · English · $35,000/yr
This doctoral program trains students to become licensed clinical psychologists, emphasizing research, assessment, and evidence-based therapeutic interventions.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Researcher, University Professor
Scholarships & Tuition at Seattle Pacific University
✅ Seattle Pacific University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Seattle Pacific University
- National Ranking: #269 in United States
- Times Higher Education (THE): #352
- Ranking tier: Research University
Campus & Facilities at Seattle Pacific University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Urban
Key Highlights
- Christian faith integration
- Urban Seattle campus
- Diverse academic programs
- Welcoming international community
- Strong nursing and business programs
Accreditation
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International
- Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB)
- Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
- National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)
- Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS)
Notable Alumni
- Jim Cornelison
- Jake DeShazer
- Gordon Fee
- Marcus Hahnemann
- Jeff Probst
Frequently Asked Questions about Seattle Pacific University
What is Seattle Pacific University?
Seattle Pacific University is a private non-profit university located in Seattle, United States, founded in 1891. It has approximately 2,261 students, with 4% being international students.
What are the admission requirements for Seattle Pacific University?
IELTS minimum: 7. TOEFL minimum: 90. Duolingo minimum: 105. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $50. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: January 15.
What language are courses taught in at Seattle Pacific University?
Courses at Seattle Pacific University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 7.
How many programs does Seattle Pacific University offer?
Seattle Pacific University offers 60 programs: 39 Bachelor's, 15 Master's, and 6 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Seattle Pacific University ranked?
#269 in United States · THE World #352.
Does Seattle Pacific University offer scholarships?
Yes, Seattle Pacific University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Seattle Pacific University provide visa support?
Yes, Seattle Pacific University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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