Seattle University

Overview

Seattle University, located in the heart of Seattle, Washington, is a private Jesuit Catholic university known for its rigorous academic programs, commitment to social justice, and strong community engagement. Founded in 1891, Seattle U offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Seattle University was established by the Society of Jesus as the Immaculate Conception Parish School in 1891. It transitioned to Seattle College in 1898 and achieved university status in 1948. Throughout its history, Seattle U has maintained a strong commitment to Jesuit education, focusing on academic excellence, service, and leadership.

Academic Offerings

Seattle University offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs across eight colleges and schools, including the Albers School of Business and Economics, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the College of Nursing. Popular majors include business administration, nursing, psychology, and criminal justice. The university emphasizes a liberal arts education and encourages interdisciplinary studies.

Student Life

Student life at Seattle University is vibrant and inclusive, with over 100 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The university hosts various events throughout the year, such as cultural festivals, guest lectures, and community service projects. Seattle U also competes in NCAA Division I athletics, with strong programs in basketball, soccer, and volleyball.

Unique Features

Seattle University is distinguished by its commitment to social justice and community engagement. The university offers unique programs such as the Center for Community Engagement, which connects students with local service opportunities, and the Seattle University Youth Initiative, which supports educational programs in underserved communities. Seattle U’s urban campus provides students with access to a wealth of professional and cultural opportunities in the city.

Admissions

Admissions to Seattle University require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The university uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Seattle University include leaders in business, law, healthcare, and public service. The university’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Gonzaga University

Overview

Gonzaga University, located in Spokane, Washington, is a private Roman Catholic university known for its strong liberal arts curriculum, emphasis on ethical leadership, and vibrant campus life. Founded in 1887, Gonzaga offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Gonzaga University was founded by the Society of Jesus in 1887 and named after Saint Aloysius Gonzaga. The university has a rich history of academic excellence and service, rooted in Jesuit values. Over the years, Gonzaga has expanded its academic offerings and campus facilities, becoming a leading institution in the Pacific Northwest.

Academic Offerings

Gonzaga University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across seven colleges and schools, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business Administration, and the School of Law. Popular majors include business administration, engineering, nursing, and education. The university’s core curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and a global perspective.

Student Life

Student life at Gonzaga University is dynamic and engaging, with over 130 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The university hosts various events throughout the year, such as the renowned Gonzaga Basketball games, concerts, and community service projects. Gonzaga competes in NCAA Division I athletics, with its basketball program being particularly notable.

Unique Features

Gonzaga University is distinguished by its strong sense of community and emphasis on ethical leadership. The university offers unique programs such as the Comprehensive Leadership Program and the Center for Community Action and Service Learning, which provide students with opportunities to develop leadership skills and engage in meaningful service. Gonzaga’s picturesque campus and strong Jesuit tradition create a supportive and inspiring environment for students.

Admissions

Admissions to Gonzaga University require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The university uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Gonzaga University include leaders in business, law, healthcare, and public service. The university’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Whitman College

Overview

Whitman College, located in Walla Walla, Washington, is a private liberal arts college known for its rigorous academic programs, beautiful campus, and strong sense of community. Founded in 1859, Whitman offers a range of undergraduate programs in the arts, sciences, and humanities.

History

Whitman College was founded as a seminary in 1859 and later became a four-year college. Named after missionaries Marcus and Narcissa Whitman, the college has a rich history of academic excellence and community engagement. Over the years, Whitman has expanded its academic offerings and modernized its campus facilities.

Academic Offerings

Whitman College offers a variety of undergraduate programs in the arts, sciences, and humanities. Popular majors include biology, psychology, politics, and English. The college’s curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, writing, and interdisciplinary studies. Whitman also offers unique programs such as the Semester in the West and the Outdoor Program, which provide experiential learning opportunities.

Student Life

Student life at Whitman College is active and inclusive, with numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The college hosts various events throughout the year, such as the annual Renaissance Faire, lectures, and community service projects. Whitman competes in NCAA Division III athletics, with strong programs in sports like soccer, swimming, and cross-country.

Unique Features

Whitman College is distinguished by its beautiful campus, strong sense of community, and emphasis on experiential learning. The college offers unique programs such as the Outdoor Program, which provides students with opportunities for outdoor recreation and leadership development, and the Semester in the West, which combines academic study with field research in the American West.

Admissions

Admissions to Whitman College require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The college uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Whitman College include leaders in education, business, the arts, and public service. The college’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Pacific Lutheran University

Overview

Pacific Lutheran University (PLU), located in Tacoma, Washington, is a private liberal arts university known for its strong academic programs, commitment to service, and vibrant campus life. Founded in 1890, PLU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Pacific Lutheran University was founded by Norwegian Lutheran pioneers in 1890 with the mission of providing higher education grounded in Lutheran values. The university has a rich history of academic excellence and community service, maintaining strong ties to its Lutheran heritage.

Academic Offerings

PLU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across four schools: the School of Arts and Communication, the School of Business, the School of Education and Kinesiology, and the School of Nursing. Popular majors include business administration, nursing, education, and biology. PLU’s curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical leadership, and global awareness.

Student Life

Student life at PLU is dynamic and inclusive, with over 70 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The university hosts various events throughout the year, such as concerts, lectures, and community service projects. PLU also competes in NCAA Division III athletics, with strong programs in sports like soccer, volleyball, and track and field.

Unique Features

Pacific Lutheran University is distinguished by its commitment to service and global engagement. The university offers unique programs such as the Wang Center for Global and Community Engaged Education, which supports study abroad and service-learning opportunities, and the Wild Hope Center for Vocation, which helps students explore their purpose and calling.

Admissions

Admissions to PLU require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The university uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Pacific Lutheran University include leaders in education, healthcare, business, and public service. The university’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Whitworth University

Overview

Whitworth University, located in Spokane, Washington, is a private Christian liberal arts university known for its rigorous academic programs, strong sense of community, and commitment to faith and service. Founded in 1890, Whitworth offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Whitworth University was founded by George F. Whitworth in 1890 with the mission of providing higher education grounded in Christian values. The university has a rich history of academic excellence and community service, maintaining strong ties to its Presbyterian heritage.

Academic Offerings

Whitworth University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across three schools: the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, and the School of Education. Popular majors include business administration, education, psychology, and biology. Whitworth’s curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical leadership, and global awareness.

Student Life

Student life at Whitworth University is active and inclusive, with numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The university hosts various events throughout the year, such as concerts, lectures, and community service projects. Whitworth competes in NCAA Division III athletics, with strong programs in sports like soccer, basketball, and track and field.

Unique Features

Whitworth University is distinguished by its commitment to faith and service. The university offers unique programs such as the Honors Program, which provides enhanced academic opportunities for high-achieving students, and the Center for Service-Learning and Community Engagement, which connects students with local service opportunities.

Admissions

Admissions to Whitworth University require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The university uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Whitworth University include leaders in education, healthcare, business, and public service. The university’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Saint Martin’s University

Overview

Saint Martin’s University, located in Lacey, Washington, is a private Benedictine university known for its strong academic programs, commitment to service, and vibrant campus life. Founded in 1895, Saint Martin’s offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Saint Martin’s University was founded by the Benedictine Order in 1895 with the mission of providing higher education grounded in Benedictine values. The university has a rich history of academic excellence and community service, maintaining strong ties to its Benedictine heritage.

Academic Offerings

Saint Martin’s University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across four schools: the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Education and Counseling, and the Hal and Inge Marcus School of Engineering. Popular majors include business administration, engineering, education, and psychology. Saint Martin’s curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical leadership, and community engagement.

Student Life

Student life at Saint Martin’s University is dynamic and inclusive, with numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The university hosts various events throughout the year, such as concerts, lectures, and community service projects. Saint Martin’s competes in NCAA Division II athletics, with strong programs in sports like soccer, basketball, and track and field.

Unique Features

Saint Martin’s University is distinguished by its commitment to service and community engagement. The university offers unique programs such as the Benedictine Scholars Program, which provides enhanced academic opportunities for high-achieving students, and the Office of Campus Ministry, which supports students’ spiritual growth and service opportunities.

Admissions

Admissions to Saint Martin’s University require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The university uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Saint Martin’s University include leaders in education, healthcare, business, and public service. The university’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Walla Walla University

Overview

Walla Walla University, located in College Place, Washington, is a private Seventh-day Adventist university known for its strong academic programs, commitment to service, and vibrant campus life. Founded in 1892, Walla Walla offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Walla Walla University was founded by the Seventh-day Adventist Church in 1892 with the mission of providing higher education grounded in Adventist values. The university has a rich history of academic excellence and community service, maintaining strong ties to its Adventist heritage.

Academic Offerings

Walla Walla University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across five schools: the School of Business, the School of Education and Psychology, the School of Engineering, the School of Nursing, and the School of Theology. Popular majors include business administration, nursing, engineering, and education. Walla Walla’s curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical leadership, and community engagement.

Student Life

Student life at Walla Walla University is active and inclusive, with numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The university hosts various events throughout the year, such as concerts, lectures, and community service projects. Walla Walla competes in NAIA athletics, with strong programs in sports like soccer, basketball, and track and field.

Unique Features

Walla Walla University is distinguished by its commitment to service and community engagement. The university offers unique programs such as the Center for Humanitarian Engagement, which supports students’ involvement in service projects, and the Office of Spiritual Life and Mission, which supports students’ spiritual growth and service opportunities.

Admissions

Admissions to Walla Walla University require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The university uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Walla Walla University include leaders in education, healthcare, business, and public service. The university’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Cornish College of the Arts

Overview

Cornish College of the Arts, located in Seattle, Washington, is a private college known for its strong programs in the visual and performing arts. Founded in 1914, Cornish offers undergraduate degrees in disciplines such as music, theater, dance, design, and fine arts.

History

Cornish College of the Arts was founded by Nellie Cornish in 1914 as the Cornish School of Music. Over the years, the college expanded its academic offerings to include other disciplines in the visual and performing arts. Cornish has a rich history of fostering creativity and innovation in the arts.

Academic Offerings

Cornish College of the Arts offers undergraduate programs in music, theater, dance, design, and fine arts. The college’s curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, creative experimentation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Cornish provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities to work with professional artists.

Student Life

Student life at Cornish College of the Arts is vibrant and creative, with numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, performance groups, and cultural organizations. The college hosts various events throughout the year, such as performances, exhibitions, and guest lectures. Cornish students actively participate in the Seattle arts community, gaining valuable professional experience.

Unique Features

Cornish College of the Arts is distinguished by its focus on the arts and its location in Seattle, a city known for its vibrant arts scene. The college offers unique programs such as the Professional Development Program, which helps students prepare for careers in the arts, and the Artist Incubator Program, which supports students in developing their creative projects.

Admissions

Admissions to Cornish College of the Arts require applicants to submit high school transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a portfolio or audition, depending on the program. The college uses a holistic review process, considering artistic talent, academic achievements, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Cornish College of the Arts include leaders in the visual and performing arts, such as actors, musicians, dancers, designers, and visual artists. The college’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Heritage University

Overview

Heritage University, located in Toppenish, Washington, is a private university known for its strong commitment to diversity, access, and community engagement. Founded in 1981, Heritage offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Heritage University was founded in 1981 by Sister Kathleen Ross and a group of dedicated educators to provide higher education opportunities to underserved communities in the Yakima Valley. The university has a rich history of promoting educational access and community service.

Academic Offerings

Heritage University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across several schools, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Education, and the College of Business. Popular majors include business administration, education, social work, and environmental science. Heritage’s curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, community engagement, and cultural competency.

Student Life

Student life at Heritage University is inclusive and community-focused, with numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The university hosts various events throughout the year, such as cultural celebrations, guest lectures, and community service projects. Heritage students actively engage with the local community through internships, service-learning projects, and community partnerships.

Unique Features

Heritage University is distinguished by its commitment to diversity and community engagement. The university offers unique programs such as the Center for a New Washington, which supports community development initiatives, and the Bilingual Education Program, which prepares students to teach in bilingual and multicultural settings.

Admissions

Admissions to Heritage University require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The university uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Heritage University include leaders in education, healthcare, business, and public service. The university’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.

Northwest University

Overview

Northwest University, located in Kirkland, Washington, is a private Christian university known for its strong academic programs, commitment to faith, and vibrant campus life. Founded in 1934, Northwest offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Northwest University was founded in 1934 by the Northwest Ministry Network of the Assemblies of God with the mission of providing higher education grounded in Christian values. The university has a rich history of academic excellence and community service, maintaining strong ties to its Pentecostal heritage.

Academic Offerings

Northwest University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across several colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, and the College of Education. Popular majors include business administration, psychology, nursing, and biblical studies. Northwest’s curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical leadership, and faith integration.

Student Life

Student life at Northwest University is dynamic and inclusive, with numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The university hosts various events throughout the year, such as concerts, lectures, and community service projects. Northwest competes in NAIA athletics, with strong programs in sports like soccer, basketball, and track and field.

Unique Features

Northwest University is distinguished by its commitment to faith and service. The university offers unique programs such as the Center for Leadership Studies, which provides enhanced academic opportunities for high-achieving students, and the Office of Campus Ministries, which supports students’ spiritual growth and service opportunities.

Admissions

Admissions to Northwest University require applicants to submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement of faith. The university uses a holistic review process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal character.

Alumni

Notable alumni of Northwest University include leaders in education, healthcare, business, and ministry. The university’s alumni network is active and supportive, offering mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities for graduates.