1. University of Washington (UW)
Overview
Location: Seattle, Washington
Founded in 1861, the University of Washington (UW) is one of the oldest public research universities on the West Coast and is globally renowned for its contributions to science, engineering, medicine, and technology. UW’s location in Seattle makes it a hub for innovation and partnerships with tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon. The university is a leader in research, particularly in computer science, medicine, and environmental sciences.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #40 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 48,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 53%
- Average SAT Score: 1220-1460
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Huskies Athletics
- Research and innovation clubs
- Greek life
- The Daily (student newspaper)
- Outdoor adventure and hiking groups
Famous Alumni
- Bill Gates – Co-founder of Microsoft (attended briefly)
- Paul Allen – Co-founder of Microsoft
- Anna Faris – Actress
- Dawn Wells – Actress (Gilligan’s Island)
- Sally Jewell – Former U.S. Secretary of the Interior
Top Employers
- Microsoft
- Amazon
- Boeing
- University of Washington Medical Center
2. Washington State University (WSU)
Overview
Location: Pullman, Washington
Founded in 1890, Washington State University is a public research university and a leading institution in agricultural sciences, veterinary medicine, and engineering. WSU is known for its emphasis on research and innovation in areas such as food production, clean energy, and health sciences. Its strong ties to the state’s agricultural and tech industries provide ample career opportunities for graduates.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #212 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 31,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
- Average SAT Score: 1020-1230
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Cougars Athletics
- Greek life
- Agricultural and environmental clubs
- Student government
- Study abroad programs
Famous Alumni
- Edward R. Murrow – Legendary broadcast journalist
- Paul Wulff – NFL coach
- Gary Larson – Cartoonist (The Far Side)
- Keith Jackson – Sports broadcaster
- Dolph Lundgren – Actor (Rocky IV)
Top Employers
- Microsoft
- Boeing
- Amazon
- Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories
- WSU Extension Programs
3. Whitman College
Overview
Location: Walla Walla, Washington
Founded in 1882, Whitman College is a private liberal arts college known for its rigorous academic programs and strong focus on critical thinking, writing, and research. Whitman has a reputation for excellence in the humanities, social sciences, and environmental studies. The college’s small class sizes and close faculty-student relationships create a personalized learning experience.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #38 National Liberal Arts Colleges
- Number of Students: About 1,500
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate degrees only
- Acceptance Rate: 54%
- Average SAT Score: 1280-1450
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Whitman Blues Athletics
- Outdoor program and hiking clubs
- Debate and Model UN
- Theater and performing arts groups
- Volunteer and service organizations
Famous Alumni
- Adam West – Actor (Batman)
- Pete Rademacher – Olympic boxer
- William O. Douglas – U.S. Supreme Court Justice
- John Markoff – Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist
- Gretchen Kunigk Fraser – Olympic gold medalist in skiing
Top Employers
- Whitman College
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Boeing
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
4. Gonzaga University
Overview
Location: Spokane, Washington
Founded in 1887, Gonzaga University is a private Jesuit university known for its commitment to educating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Gonzaga offers strong programs in business, law, and engineering, and is also well-known for its successful men’s basketball team. The university’s emphasis on service and social justice is central to its mission, preparing students for leadership roles.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #83 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 7,500
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 73%
- Average SAT Score: 1200-1370
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Bulldogs Athletics
- Campus Ministry and service groups
- Student government
- Gonzaga Debate Team
- Performing arts and music ensembles
Famous Alumni
- John Stockton – NBA Hall of Famer
- Bing Crosby – Singer and actor
- Christine Gregoire – Former Governor of Washington
- Tom Foley – Former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives
- Steve Hertz – MLB player
Top Employers
- Gonzaga University
- Microsoft
- Amazon
- Boeing
- Providence Health & Services
5. Seattle University
Overview
Location: Seattle, Washington
Founded in 1891, Seattle University is a private Jesuit university known for its programs in business, law, and nursing. The Albers School of Business and Economics and the School of Law are among the best in the region. Seattle University emphasizes social justice, ethical leadership, and service to others, creating a community committed to making a positive impact on the world.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #124 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 7,200
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Average SAT Score: 1150-1330
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Redhawks Athletics
- Campus Ministry and service programs
- Business and entrepreneurship clubs
- Student government
- Performing arts and music groups
Famous Alumni
- Jim Whittaker – First American to summit Mount Everest
- Elgin Baylor – NBA Hall of Famer
- Timothy Egan – Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist
- Jennifer Dunn – Former U.S. Congresswoman
- Gary Locke – Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce
Top Employers
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Starbucks
- Providence Health & Services
- Seattle University
6. Pacific Lutheran University (PLU)
Overview
Location: Tacoma, Washington
Founded in 1890, Pacific Lutheran University is a private university affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. PLU is known for its strong programs in nursing, business, education, and the arts. The university emphasizes global education, sustainability, and service, offering numerous opportunities for study abroad and community engagement.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #19 Regional Universities West
- Number of Students: About 3,100
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
- Average SAT Score: 1080-1290
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Lutes Athletics
- Choir and music ensembles
- Study abroad programs
- Campus Ministry and service organizations
- Outdoor adventure clubs
Famous Alumni
- Paul Allen – Co-founder of Microsoft
- Bill Radke – Radio host (NPR)
- Sean McKenna – Writer and producer (House of Lies)
- Cory Booker – U.S. Senator (attended briefly)
- Mark Hendrickson – MLB pitcher
Top Employers
- MultiCare Health System
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Boeing
- Tacoma Public Schools
7. Western Washington University (WWU)
Overview
Location: Bellingham, Washington
Founded in 1893, Western Washington University is a public university known for its programs in environmental science, education, and business. WWU’s Huxley College of the Environment is one of the oldest environmental studies programs in the country, and the university has a strong commitment to sustainability. WWU is also recognized for its beautiful campus and close-knit community.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #14 Regional Universities West
- Number of Students: About 16,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
- Average SAT Score: 1080-1280
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Vikings Athletics
- Environmental and sustainability clubs
- Outdoor adventure programs
- Performing arts and theater groups
- Student government
Famous Alumni
- John McCarthy – Founder of modern AI
- Mike Duncan – Podcaster and author (Revolutions)
- Sarah Carter – Actress
- David Guterson – Author (Snow Falling on Cedars)
- David S. Ward – Oscar-winning screenwriter
Top Employers
- Microsoft
- Amazon
- PeaceHealth
- Boeing
- Western Washington University
8. The Evergreen State College
Overview
Location: Olympia, Washington
Founded in 1967, The Evergreen State College is a public liberal arts college known for its unconventional and interdisciplinary approach to education. Instead of traditional majors, students design their own academic paths through a combination of disciplines. Evergreen’s focus on environmental sustainability, social justice, and experiential learning makes it a unique educational institution.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #44 Regional Universities West
- Number of Students: About 2,200
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 98%
- Average SAT Score: Optional (test-optional admissions)
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Geoducks Athletics
- Sustainability and environmental activism
- Theatrical and artistic performance groups
- Student government
- Outdoor adventure and hiking clubs
Famous Alumni
- Matt Groening – Creator of The Simpsons
- Carrie Brownstein – Musician and actress (Portlandia)
- Lynda Barry – Cartoonist and author
- Michael Richards – Actor (Seinfeld)
- Toby Poser – Actress and filmmaker
Top Employers
- Washington State Government
- Microsoft
- Amazon
- Boeing
- Local environmental nonprofits
9. Seattle Pacific University (SPU)
Overview
Location: Seattle, Washington
Founded in 1891, Seattle Pacific University is a private Christian university known for its programs in business, nursing, education, and psychology. SPU combines rigorous academics with a commitment to Christian values and service. The university offers a close-knit community and emphasizes ethical leadership and service to others.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #227 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 3,700
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Average SAT Score: 1060-1260
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Falcons Athletics
- Campus Ministry and service groups
- Student government
- Study abroad programs
- Performing arts and music clubs
Famous Alumni
- Doug McMillon – CEO of Walmart
- Jeffrey Overstreet – Author and film critic
- Leslie Ann Warren – Actress
- Kurt Bodewig – German politician
- Quinton Morris – Violinist and professor
Top Employers
- Amazon
- Starbucks
- Microsoft
- Seattle Children’s Hospital
- Seattle Pacific University
10. Eastern Washington University (EWU)
Overview
Location: Cheney, Washington
Founded in 1882, Eastern Washington University is a public university known for its programs in health sciences, business, and education. EWU offers students a wide range of hands-on learning opportunities through internships, research, and community engagement. The university is also known for its athletics, particularly in football.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #64 Regional Universities West
- Number of Students: About 12,300
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
- Average SAT Score: 950-1160
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Eagles Athletics
- Student government
- Outdoor adventure and hiking clubs
- Greek life
- Service and volunteer organizations
Famous Alumni
- Michael Roos – NFL player
- Ronnie Lee – NBA player
- Colin Cowherd – Sports broadcaster
- Paul Wulff – NFL coach
- Jason Hervey – Actor (The Wonder Years)
Top Employers
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Providence Health & Services
- Avista Utilities
- Boeing