Western Washington University, Bellingham
Washington, United States of America | Estd in 1893 | Government University
CWUR Rank : 1710
About Western Washington University
Western Washington University was established as New Whatcom Normal School in 1893. In 1928, it was renamed Western Washington College of Education, and then in 1977, it became Western Washington University. The mission of WWU is to "provide students with an accessible, affordable, and high-quality education that prepares them for success in a global society." WWU is a public institution of higher education situated in Bellingham, Washington. It is the third-largest university in the province, with over 16,000 students.
In addition to its strong academic reputation, the university offers programmes in a variety of disciplines, such as business, engineering, education, and the arts. WWU offers over 200 undergraduate programmes and over 40 graduate degrees. The university also houses the Huxley College of the Environment, one of the country's premier environmental colleges. 76% of the faculty at Western Washington University possess the highest degree in their respective fields. The university is dedicated to research, and faculty members are involved in a variety of research initiatives. WWU is also home to a number of research institutes and centres, such as the Centre for Sustainable Transportation, the Centre for Environmental Science and Policy, and the Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching.
Western Washington University has a diverse student body, with students from all over the world. Student organisations and activities at the university include societies, fraternities and sororities, sports teams, and intramural sports. Additionally, WWU has a thriving arts community with numerous theatre productions, concerts, and art exhibits. The university provides a variety of financial assistance options, such as grants, scholarships, and work-study programmes. Western Washington University is an excellent option for students searching for an attractive, diverse, and rigorous academic institution. The university can help students reach their maximum potential and opportunities for collaborative research and a diverse student body.
Western Washington University Overview
Highlights | Data |
Established year | 1893 |
Western Washington University Official Website | www.wwu.edu |
Western Washington University Ranking | QS: 1401+ US News: 1303 |
Academic Portfolio | 43+ undergraduate programmes 35+ graduate programmes |
Western Washington University Facilities | Suzzallo Library Fisher Science Center Performing Arts Center Student Recreation Center Woodland Park |
Schools |
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Western Washington University Location
Campus Type | Public university |
Place | Bellingham, Washington, U.S. |
Min and max Temperatures (Average) | 1.6 °C - 22.7 °C |
Distance from Bellingham | 1.7 miles (2.7 km) |
Western Washington University Highlights
Western Washington University Courses
Students at Western Washington University can explore more than 200 Academic Programmes to determine which major is best for them. The graduate programmes at Western include advanced degrees in the arts, business, education, and the sciences.
There are 43+ graduate programmes and 35+ undergraduate programmes available at the university. Some of the graduate programmes are offered in the following disciplines:
Accounting
Biochemistry
Dance
Design
Computer Science
East Asian Studies
Engineering
Geology
History
Journalism, etc
Few major subjects taught in graduate programmes are:
Anthropology
Biology
Environmental Science
Language and Literacy
MBA, and many more.
Accreditations
Western Washington University Fees
| Courses | Duration | International Student | Local Student |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.A.(14 courses) | 4 years | ₹21.41 L/yr | ₹6.02 L/yr |
| BS(12 courses) | 4 years | ₹21.41 L/yr | ₹6.02 L/yr |
| M.S(12 courses) | 2 years | ₹20.35 L - ₹21.39 L/yr | ₹9.48 L - ₹10.51 L/yr |
| M.A.(6 courses) | 2 years | ₹20.35 L - ₹26.73 L/yr | ₹9.48 L - ₹14.47 L/yr |
| M.Ed.(3 courses) | 2 years | ₹20.35 L/yr | ₹9.48 L/yr |
Western Washington University Cost Of Living
Bellingham provides students with a desirable choice for affordable living near Washington's Whatcom County, where rent typically ranges between $1,200 and $1,300 depending on required amenities - significantly less expensive than oceanside cities like Aberdeen or Hoquiam, which are located much further to the northwest. In addition, grocery prices remain consistent with United States averages, primarily due to local taxes and regulations, while sales tax remains constant at no less than 9%.
Below is a comprehensive roster for Washington and out-of-state residents:
Cost of living for Western Washington University:
Expenses | Washington Residents | Out-of-State Student |
Confirmation Fee | $300 | $300 |
Tuition and Fees | $7,995 | $26,562 |
Additional Required Fees | $1,290 | $1,290 |
Housing and Meals | $15,894 | $15,894 |
Books and Supplies | $1,176 | $1,176 |
Transportation | $1,920 | $1,920 |
Personal and Miscellaneous | $2,670 | $2,670 |
Total Cost of Attendance | $31,245 | $49,812 |
Western Washington University Admission and Application
To apply at Western Washington University, applicants are required to fill out an application form for their desired program of study and submit an application fee of 75 USD along with the required documents. There are many fresh year, transferees, and international students who apply to the university each year. The students can follow the below-mentioned steps to apply for admission at WWU.
How to apply?
Various students are mandated to adhere to distinct application procedures at Western Washington University, as described below:
Create an account on the WWU application website.
Complete the application form online.
Submit official transcripts from all secondary institutions and colleges attended.
Kindly submit the TOEFL or IELTS results. (for international candidates).
Write an essay outlining the academic objectives and the reasons to attend WWU.
Submit two recommendation letters.
Pay the required application fee.
Western Washington University Application Fees - In order to facilitate the processing of the application, a mandatory application fee of $70, which is non-refundable, must be paid. During the online application process, candidates will be required to provide their credit or debit card information via a secure link to finalize their application.
Documents required for Western Washington University
The documents required for first years, international, transferees, graduates, and other students are mentioned below:
For first-year students, the documents required are:
Completion of courses that meet the College Academic Distribution Requirements (CADRs).
Unofficial high school transcript or certificate/diploma of high school equivalency (such as the GED) submitted electronically or through mail.
For transfer students:
Official Academic Transcripts from every university attended.
An essay that helps the Admissions Committee understand the academic goals.
For international students
Proof of English language proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, etc.
Certified copies of academic records, including transcripts and school leaving certificates
Statement of Purpose
Writing samples (if required).
A copy of a valid passport
International applicants are also required to submit program-specific test scores (if required).
For post-baccalaureate students
The students are required to submit a Statement Of Purpose (SOP) except those applying for an Outreach and Continuing Education supported program.
official transcripts
Western Washington University Scholarship
Western Washington University offers both merit- and need-based aid to help financially disadvantaged students obtain an education. The Financial Aid Department at WWU is committed to assisting students in planning for a brighter future. More than 60% of Western students receive some form of financial assistance. Using grants, scholarships, student employment, and/or loans, Western will assist them in paying for tuition, books, and educational supplies, as well as housing, food, and transportation, as well as personal expenses.
Western Washington University offers special interest scholarships to students with disabilities, international students, LGBTQ+ students, Veterans, and their Families.
Scholarships for Freshmen and Transfer students.
The following scholarships are available for freshmen and transfer students at Western Washington University:
Merit Scholarships - Scholarships based on merit are typically awarded to students with exceptional qualifications, such as a high GPA, test scores, and extracurricular or community involvement.
Diversity Scholarships - Western Washington University has incorporated the need for a diverse student body, faculty, and staff into its design for excellence. This diverse group of students who demonstrate academic promise, aptitude, and community service activity are awarded scholarships by the university.
WSAC (Washington Student Achievement Council) - Washington State finances a variety of financial aid programmes to assist students and their families with college costs.
High School Scholarships
Student Employment Center - This website is maintained by the Student Employment Centre, which publishes part-time on-campus and off-campus positions. As they prepare for graduation, students can browse these positions and receive assistance from the WWU Career Services Centre, which facilitates students with resumes and interview skills as well as placements in internships or permanent positions.
Western Washington University Undergraduate Student Scholarships
WWU awards more than 600 undergraduate scholarships annually. The following is a list of available scholarships for continuing Undergraduate students. There are three categories of awards: Diversity, non-departmental, and departmental scholarships.
Non-Departmental Scholarships - Scholarships that are not restricted to a specific discipline or department are available through the university.
Diversity Scholarships - Western Washington University offers scholarships to a diverse collection of students who demonstrate academic promise, talent, and involvement in community service.
Departmental Scholarships - The colleges and departments of the university offer scholarships to exceptional students specializing in particular programmes of study.
Departmental Tuition Waivers - Each department provides one or two partial tuition waivers. Tuition waiver recipients must be full-time undergraduates enrolled on Western's main campus (students admitted and enrolled through an off-campus or self-sustaining programme are ineligible).
Grants and Loans provided by Western Washington University
Students who are pursuing their first degree and have financial need may be eligible for grant funds. The university offers loans through the Federal Direct Loan Programme, Private Loans, Private Educational Loans, and Parental Loans. The University of Western Washington participates in all of the following federal and state grant programmes:
College Bound Scholarship
Federal Pell Grant
Federal Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant (IASG)
Federal Children of Fallen Heroes Scholarship
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
Federal TEACH Grant
Institutional Grant and Tuition Waivers
Washington Bridge Grant
Washington College Grant
Western Washington University Eligibility
To be considered for Western Washington University, the candidate must match the following eligibility requirements:
Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited US college or an equivalent degree from a foreign university.
The candidates must have a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA (on a 4.0 scale) in order to be eligible for admission at Western Washington University.
For transfer students and first-year students, a GPA minimum of 2.0 is required.
Foreign must obtain at least the minimum TOEFL (86 iBT) or IELTS (7.0) scores to be eligible for admission.
English should be their native language, or they must have received a degree from an English-speaking country.
Note: Official TOEFL or IELTS scores must be attached when students are applying for admission. Also, test scores older than 1 year will not be considered.
Western Washington University Campus Life
Western Washington University is an excellent option for students in search of a vibrant and active campus life. There are numerous opportunities for engagement, friendship, and fun.
It is an excellent opportunity for students to learn about different cultures because the student body is comprised of individuals from all over the world. The university is surrounded by the Cascade Mountains to the east and the Salish Sea to the west, creating a scenic location. The average annual temperature ranges from 40 ℉ in the winter to 70 ℉ in the summer.
Here are some activities that Western Washington University students can enjoy on campus:
Join a club or organization - Over 400 student organisations exist at WWU, ensuring that there is something for everyone. From academic clubs to athletic teams to fraternities and sororities, there are numerous opportunities for involvement.
Attend a sporting event - Western Washington University serves as home to 17 NCAA Division II athletic teams. The Vikings compete in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC).
Attend a concert or play - WWU has a robust cultural community. Throughout the year, the Performing Arts Centre hosts a wide range of performances, from plays and musicals to concerts and dance recitals.
Visit the Student Recreation Center - The Student Recreation Centre features an ultramodern fitness centre, swimming pool, and other amenities. It's a wonderful place to exercise, relax, and hang out with friends.
Viking Union - It is a central hub for community events, volunteer opportunities, adventure activities, leadership development, creative expression, and finding support for your passions, interests, and identities.
Western Washington University Campus Facilities
Boys Hostel
Girls Hostel
Smart Classrooms
Classrooms
Library
Access to primary source materials, seminars, orientations, and credit-bearing courses on information literacy and special topics are just a few of the resources and services offered by Western Libraries to promote student learning and scholarship. The Libraries provide online access to online seminars, course reserves, e-books, articles and databases, and other video resources 24/7. Additionally, the library facilities provide a variety of study spaces for both collaborative and independent research.
Club
At WWU, there are more than 400 student clubs which ensure that all the students must engage and participate in various activities. Student-led clubs are an excellent method for students with similar interests to connect and develop leadership skills. There are numerous opportunities to get involved, ranging from the Ethnic Student Center's many organisations to the Adaptive Sports Club, Neurodivergent Club, QueerCon, Queer Eco-Justice Club, and Lavender Menaces.
Guest Room/Waiting Room
Western strongly supports nursing employees and students, and recognises the need for a private, secure, and sanitary space to breastfeed or extract milk. In addition, employees are permitted to breastfeed in their own private office or other private locations agreed upon in consultation with the employee's supervisor and the Disability Administrator.
Swimming Pool
Extra Curricular Activities
Western Washington University (WWU) possesses a thriving and vibrant cultural community. The Performing Arts Centre offers a diverse array of performances throughout the year, including plays, musicals, concerts, and dance recitals. Additionally, the institution has a Student Recreation Centre which comprises advanced fitness facilities, a swimming pool, and various other amenities. The students can also take active participation in the athletic teams at Western Washington University.
Physical Challenged Student
The DAC collaborates with students, faculty, and staff to make classroom and co-curricular environments accessible and inclusive for students with disabilities. The accommodations facilitated by the DAC help guarantee the civil rights of disabled students. As a programme of the DAC, the Disability Outreach Centre will provide a space for students to connect and develop a community. They also provide accommodation for the specially-abled students at no extra cost.
Auditorium
Western Washington University International Office Details
Western Washington University welcomes all types of international students worldwide. All the students can apply for admission, be it a first-year university students or transferring from another college or university.
The students should apply as an international student if they require a student visa to study in the United States. At Western Washington University, international students are provided with an affordable and transformative experience. They will have to pay the same tuition rate as out-of-state students and there are a number of scholarships available as well. The students can also be a part of student organisations, and enjoy plays or concerts, and athletics.
Western Washington University Accommodation
On the campus of Western Washington University, there are eight residential communities located in three residential neighborhoods: North Campus, The Ridge, and South Campus. Some residence halls are apartment- or suite-style, while others are hall-style. Single, double, and triple occupancy apartments with amenities such as cycle storage, an elevator, a kitchen, and a common living area are available to students. While Western does not have designated family housing, Birnam Wood offers family accommodations for students with dependents (spouse, domestic partner, or children) based on availability.
North Campus - Edens Hall, Edens North, Higginson Hall, Nash Hall, and Mathes Hall.
The Ridge - Alma Clark Glass, Ridgeway Alpha, Ridgeway Beta, Ridgeway Delta, Ridgeway Gamma, Ridgeway Omega, Ridgeway Kappa, Ridgeway Sigma.
South Campus - Birnam Wood, Buchanan Towers, Buchanan Towers East, Fairhaven Complex.
Housing for people with disabilities:
University Residences adheres to the university's policy on accommodating disabled individuals. University Residences collaborates with the Disability Access Centre (DAC) to offer comparable, convenient, and accessible housing to students with disabilities at no additional cost.
Students requesting University residence accommodations must submit both a Housing application and a DAC request. Requests have to stick to deadlines and priority dates for housing. Applications submitted after the deadline for the autumn quarter, as well as requests for the winter and spring quarters, will be processed as soon as space becomes available but may be placed on a waitlist. The facilities consist of:
Single room options
Wheelchair-accessible room and bath
Room equipped with a visual fire alert
Medical-related dietary consult
Special bathroom needs
Furniture adjustments
Early arrival
Housing with a Service Animal or Emotional Support Animal
Summer Housing - University Residences provides summer lodging for continuing campus residents, WWU Summer Session students, and community college summer programme participants. The minimum stay for academic residents ranges from three to nine weeks, depending on the programme selected. Only confirmed learners are permitted to remain the entire summer.
Off-campus housing - Although the majority of graduate students reside off-campus, Fairhaven Village Inn, The Chrysalis Inn & Spa, and Hotel Leo are examples of off-campus housing for a brief stay with a luxurious budget (over $130). In contrast, Holiday Inn Express, Best Western Plus Bellingham, and Holiday Inn & Suites Bellingham are hotels with rates between $96 and $129. Before making a reservation, students can inquire about their WWU discount if these lodging options are available. They are eligible for discounts of up to 15%.
Western Washington University Gallery
Gallery