Best
Value Colleges in Washington in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Washington builds skills in management, finance, marketing, accounting, economics, and business analytics. Programs often include organizational behavior, business law, operations, and strategic planning, with projects tied to the state's technology, aerospace, healthcare, and trade industries. Graduates commonly pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations managers, or financial associates. Popular college options include the University of Washington, Washington State University, Seattle University, Gonzaga University, and Western Washington University.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Washington offers coursework in research methods, developmental and social psychology, cognition, statistics, and abnormal psychology. Students may explore mental health, behavior, and neuroscience through internships or research. Popular options include the University of Washington, Washington State University, Seattle University, and Western Washington University. A bachelor's degree can prepare graduates for roles such as case manager, human resources specialist, behavioral technician, or research assistant; a graduate degree is generally needed for clinical practice.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Washington combines technical training with access to technology employers in Seattle. Typical coursework includes programming, algorithms, data structures, operating systems, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Graduates pursue software developer, systems analyst, data engineer, cybersecurity analyst, or web developer roles. Popular Washington colleges offering computer science degrees include the University of Washington, Washington State University, Western Washington University, Seattle University, and Gonzaga University. Programs may also emphasize research, teamwork, and practical projects.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Washington prepares students to support individuals, families, and communities. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, multicultural counseling, lifespan development, assessment, group counseling, and supervised practicum or internship experience. Graduates may pursue roles such as mental health counselor, school counselor, substance-use counselor, case manager, or behavioral-health specialist, depending on degree, license, and employer requirements. Washington colleges offering counseling study include Seattle University, University of Washington, Gonzaga University, and Eastern Washington University.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Washington combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses typically include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health nursing. Graduates may become registered nurses, clinic nurses, school nurses, or care coordinators, depending on degree and licensure. Popular options include the University of Washington, Washington State University, Seattle University, Gonzaga University, and Bellevue College, offering varied pathways from associate degrees to bachelor's programs.

Best Colleges in Washington Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 10,887.5, compared with 44,061.5 at schools in the top 10%, making cost an important point of comparison when assessing value.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid overall, versus 76.59% at schools in the top 10%. The average acceptance rate is 76.59%.
• Schools receive an average of 8,252.41 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 13,595.4. The median number of male applicants is 1,894.5, compared with 2,542.0 female applicants.
• The average SAT score is 1,213.58 and the average ACT score is 26.42.
• Average enrollment is 5,128.17 students, including averages of 497.95 men and 657.0 women.
• The average graduation rate is 46.42%, compared with 69.2% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 39.5% for men and 45.0% for women.
• There are 40 institutions offering associate's degrees, 64 offering bachelor's degrees, 28 offering master's degrees, and 12 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 64 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should weigh total cost against financial aid, and compare graduation outcomes alongside admissions selectivity, enrollment, degree offerings, and their own academic preferences. The higher median cost but stronger graduation rate among top-10% schools illustrates why value should be assessed across several factors rather than price alone.

How much does studying at a college in Washington cost?

The reported average total cost of studying in Washington is $19,824.05, a useful starting benchmark as you plan for college. It is not necessarily the price of an entire degree: your overall bill depends on how many years you enroll, your program, and the institution you choose. For tuition and fees, the reported average is $17,519.80, while average books and supplies cost $863.65.

Average room and board is $16,166.18, but these category averages do not reconcile with the reported total, so avoid adding them as if they were one student's bill. Your actual costs will depend on campus housing, meal choices, aid, and course needs. At the University of Washington in Seattle, Washington State University in Pullman, or Western Washington University in Bellingham, compare each school's current cost-of-attendance estimate and financial-aid options before deciding. This step can make a big goal feel more manageable: scholarships, grants, and lower-cost housing may reduce what you pay out of pocket. If you are budgeting from home, include transportation and personal expenses too, and ask each college how its estimate applies to your planned program and enrollment. A careful side-by-side comparison helps you choose a Washington campus that fits both your ambitions and your budget. You can contact campus advisers for personalized estimates before making a commitment.

How long does it take to finish college in Washington?

Most students in Washington should plan on about four years for a bachelor's degree; an associate degree at a community college, such as Seattle Colleges, usually takes two. A master's often requires another one or two years. At the University of Washington or Washington State University, course availability, major requirements, work, and family commitments may affect your timeline.

• Earn accepted AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits, then confirm how they apply toward your degree.
• Summer classes and an early transfer plan from a Washington community college can help you avoid prerequisite delays.

Still, finishing takes persistence: Washington's average graduation rate is 46.42%, while the average for the top 10% of schools is 69.2%. The averages are 45.25% for men and 47.57% for women. These rates show that many students may not finish their degree, so advising, scheduling, and celebrating milestones can help you stay motivated and move toward your goal.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Washington have a median alumni salary of $47,775. At schools ranked among the top 10%, the median is higher, at $60,403 - an encouraging benchmark as you consider your earning potential after college.

Washington offers many paths to a degree, from the University of Washington and Washington State University to Seattle University and Western Washington University. Your own earnings can vary depending on your field, experience, and location, but these figures give you a useful starting point for planning your future in the state.

People also ask

What college in Washington has the lowest tuition?

Washington's community colleges are generally the lowest-tuition option for in-state students. There isn't one reliable, year-round "cheapest college" answer because total costs vary with residency, course load, program, and campus fees. Comparing current tuition and fees for your intended number of credits can help you find the best fit - and keep college more affordable.

What are Tier 1 schools in Washington?

"Tier 1" can mean different things, but it commonly refers to universities with Carnegie R1 status, a research classification. Under that meaning, Washington's R1 universities include the University of Washington in Seattle and Washington State University. Both offer broad academic and research opportunities; check the specific campus and program to see which feels right for you.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Washington Ranking in 2026-2027

Washington State University offers Washington students a large public-university experience in Pullman, with 25,477 enrolled students. Its 60% graduation rate and 87% acceptance rate may appeal to applicants seeking broad access. The reported total study cost is $27,864, while median alumni salary is $55,020. Pullman is a college town in eastern Washington, and WSU is known for research, school spirit, and a wide range of academic programs. Compare expenses and campus setting when deciding whether this Washington option fits.

The University of Washington-Seattle Campus serves Washington students in an urban setting, with 57,283 enrolled students. Its 85% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools, while its 39% acceptance rate makes admission more selective. Total cost is $42,105, and median alumni salary is $53,359. Seattle's major-city location offers access to cultural institutions, employers, and the Puget Sound region. For a Washington resident, weigh city life, selectivity, and overall costs against academic opportunities and the university's large community.

Seattle University is a private university in Seattle, giving Washington students an urban campus and access to the city's professional and cultural life. It enrolls 7,354 students, with a 76% graduation rate and a 77% acceptance rate. Its reported total cost is $55,620, and median alumni salary is $55,528. The smaller enrollment may suit students seeking a more compact community than the state's largest campuses. Consider how private-school costs fit your budget and compare programs and support.

Whitman College in Walla Walla is a small liberal arts college, offering Washington students a close-knit campus setting in the state's southeast. Its 1,468 enrolled students form the smallest student body in this group. The graduation rate is 81%, and acceptance rate is 38%, making it the most selective listed. Total cost is $63,510, the highest here; median alumni salary is $37,245. Compare the intimate environment and price with aid and career plans for your future.

Western Washington University in Bellingham offers Washington students a public-university experience in a coastal city near the Canadian border. It enrolls 14,564 students, with a 65% graduation rate and 93% acceptance rate, the highest acceptance rate among these schools. The total study cost is $27,365, the lowest listed, and median alumni salary is $41,482. Bellingham's outdoor setting, with water and mountain landscapes, appeals to students valuing recreation alongside campus life. Compare aid, housing costs, and program fit before you apply.