Best
Value Colleges in Seattle in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Seattle, Washington, combines management, accounting, finance, marketing, economics, analytics, and organizational behavior with practical projects. Students develop leadership, communication, and decision-making skills while exploring technology, healthcare, and trade sectors. Choices include the University of Washington's Foster School of Business, Seattle University's Albers School of Business and Economics, and Seattle Pacific University's School of Business, Government, and Economics. Graduates become financial analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations managers, or business consultants.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Seattle, Washington, offers exploration of human behavior, mental processes, and research methods. Typical courses include developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, statistics, abnormal psychology, and social psychology. Popular Seattle institutions offering psychology programs include the University of Washington, Seattle University, and Seattle Pacific University. Graduates may pursue roles in social services, behavioral health support, human resources, market research, or education. Clinical and counseling psychologist positions typically require graduate training, licensure, and supervised professional experience.

Computer Science

Studying a computer science program in Seattle, Washington, combines theory and hands-on projects in programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students often collaborate with local technology companies through internships and capstones. Popular Seattle options include the University of Washington, Seattle University, and Seattle Pacific University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as software developer, systems analyst, data scientist, cybersecurity analyst, or web developer, with opportunities across startups, firms, government, and research.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Seattle, WA, combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice with supervised field experience. Students may explore trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and research methods. Seattle University and Seattle Pacific University are popular local choices offering counseling graduate programs. Depending on degree and licensure requirements, graduates commonly work locally as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, career counselors, or community agency clinicians.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Seattle, Washington, offers routes from practical and associate preparation to bachelor's and degrees. Courses typically include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, community health, and clinical practice in hospitals or clinics. Graduates may work as registered nurses, public health nurses, school nurses, emergency department nurses, or care coordinators. Seattle study options include the University of Washington, Seattle University, and Seattle Pacific University, each offering nursing education and clinical learning opportunities.

Best Colleges in Seattle, WA Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 29,340.0, compared with 43,456.5 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of 14,116.5.
• On average, 100.0% of students receive financial aid, compared with 65.25% at top 10% schools, a difference of 34.75 percentage points.
• The average acceptance rate is 65.25%. Schools receive an average of 20,442.0 applicants, while those in the top 10% receive an average of 50,956.6.
• The median number of applicants is 2,074.0 for men and 3,595.5 for women.
• Average test scores are 1,200.0 on the SAT and 26.0 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 8,628.1; the averages for enrolled men and women are 916.0 and 1,232.5, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 54.0%, compared with 78.7% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 55.0% for men and 53.5% for women.
• Four institutions offer associate's degrees, 10 offer bachelor's degrees, eight offer master's degrees, and four offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 10 coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost with financial-aid availability, and weigh those factors alongside acceptance rates, test scores, enrollment, degree options, and graduation rates. The figures show that top 10% schools have higher costs and applicant numbers, but also higher graduation rates; consider which trade-offs best fit your priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Seattle, WA cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Seattle, Washington, is about $26,500.20, while average tuition and fees are $25,316.30. For a prospective student, this is a useful starting point, but costs vary by institution, degree, residency status, and whether you live on campus. Seattle's University of Washington, Seattle University, and Seattle Pacific University are familiar local options; compare each school's current estimate before planning.

• Tuition and fees average $25,316.30.
• Room and board average $17,942.14.
• Books and supplies average $1,234.00.

These figures are reported averages and do not neatly add up to the reported total, so treat them as separate reference points rather than a guaranteed bill. Grants, scholarships, and commuting may reduce what you pay, while campus housing or specialized programs may add expenses. Compare net prices at local colleges to find a path that feels achievable and financially sustainable.

How long does it take to finish college in Seattle, WA?

In Seattle, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes two. At the University of Washington's Seattle campus, Seattle University, or Seattle Central College, your program, course availability, and credit load affect the timeline; part-time study or changing majors can add semesters.

Finish sooner by applying AP/IB or transfer credits, taking summer classes, earning approved exam credit, or selecting an accelerated program. Seattle schools may offer summer and online courses; verify credits count toward your major before enrolling. An adviser can build a manageable plan that saves time.

Reported graduation rates are 54.0% overall and 78.7% at the top 10% of schools; averages are 52.12% for men and 54.62% for women. Ask Seattle colleges what timeframe they use and which advising, tutoring, and financial aid supports completion. A clear plan and support can make finishing your degree on schedule feel achievable.

Salary

After graduating from college in Seattle, WA, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $53,359. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $62,896 - a promising starting point as you build your career in the Seattle area.

Popular local options include the University of Washington, Seattle University, and Seattle Pacific University. Your earnings will depend on factors such as your field of study, experience, and career path, but Seattle's range of employers can give graduates exciting opportunities to put their education to work.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Seattle?

There is no single official count, because lists differ on whether they include branch campuses and specialized institutions. Counting degree-granting universities with a campus in Seattle proper, a practical estimate is about six, including the University of Washington, Seattle University, Seattle Pacific University, City University of Seattle, Antioch University Seattle, and Northeastern University's Seattle campus.

What is the largest university in Seattle?

The University of Washington's Seattle campus is the largest university in the city by enrollment, with more than 50,000 students. Its size brings a lively campus atmosphere, extensive academic choices, and many student organizations. For someone studying locally, it can offer the energy of a large public research university while keeping Seattle's neighborhoods and opportunities close by.

How many universities are there in Seattle?

Using the same campus-based estimate above, Seattle has about six universities. The exact total can change depending on how a source classifies institutions and satellite locations. If you're comparing where to apply, checking each school's campus, programs, and student support is more useful than relying on a single citywide number.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Seattle, WA Ranking in 2026-2027

For a Seattle, WA student seeking a university experience, University of Washington-Seattle Campus is a major public research institution with extensive academic options and a large campus community. It enrolls 57,283 students, reports an 85% graduation rate and a 39% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $42,105, while median alumni salary is $53,359. Its Seattle location offers access to city culture, employers, transit, and internships, alongside opportunities for research, student organizations, and interdisciplinary study across a wide range of fields.

Seattle University is a private Jesuit university in Seattle, WA, known for combining professional preparation with a values-centered education. Its 7,354 enrolled students experience a smaller community than the city's largest campus. The university reports a 76% graduation rate and 77% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $55,620; median alumni salary is $55,528. For students, downtown surroundings can bring internships, cultural events, and career connections within reach, while campus life offers close-knit learning and opportunities to engage with Seattle communities.

Seattle Pacific University is a private Christian university in Seattle, WA, offering a campus-based education with a faith-informed perspective. It enrolls 2,101 students, with a 62% graduation rate and an 83% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $39,492, and median alumni salary is $53,059. Its smaller scale may appeal to students seeking a more personal campus environment. Studying here keeps Seattle neighborhoods, cultural destinations, employers, and outdoor recreation accessible, while academic programs and community activities support involvement beyond the classroom.

Seattle Central College is a public community college in central Seattle, WA, serving students looking for accessible college study in an urban setting. It enrolls 5,396 students and reports a 32% graduation rate; acceptance rate data are unavailable. Total study cost is $5,046, and median alumni salary is $62,011. The college's city-center location can make transit, neighborhood services, cultural venues, and work opportunities convenient. Students may explore associate degrees and career-focused pathways while building foundations for employment or further education.

North Seattle College is a public community college serving Seattle, WA students who want an option for undergraduate study. It enrolls 5,569 students and has a 33% graduation rate; acceptance rate information is unavailable. Total study cost is $5,046, while median alumni salary is $56,900. Located in north Seattle, the college offers a campus setting within the city, with opportunities to pursue transfer preparation or career-oriented learning. For Seattle-based students, it can provide a lower-cost route toward further education.