Best
Value Colleges in Spokane in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Spokane, Washington, combines core business theory with practical skills. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, statistics, and organizational behavior. Students can explore entrepreneurship, analytics, and leadership through projects or internships. Popular Spokane-based options include Gonzaga University and Whitworth University, both offering business programs; Spokane Community College also provides business coursework and transfer pathways. Graduates commonly pursue roles as marketing coordinators, financial analysts, human resources specialists, or managers.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Spokane, Washington, offers a foundation in behavior, mental health, and research. Typical courses include developmental, social, cognitive, abnormal, and biological psychology, plus statistics and research methods. Gonzaga University and Whitworth University offer psychology majors; Spokane Falls Community College provides transfer-focused psychology study. Graduates may pursue roles in human services, case management, behavioral health support, market research, or recruiting. Clinical and counseling psychologist careers typically require graduate education, supervised experience, and state licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Spokane, WA, combines programming, mathematics, and hands-on problem-solving. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build skills through projects and internships with employers. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, database administrators, or IT support professionals. Spokane-area options include Gonzaga University, Whitworth University, and Spokane Community College, whose computer science coursework can support transfer into a bachelor's program.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Spokane, Washington can prepare you to support individuals, families, and communities through emotional and behavioral challenges. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, human development, ethics, multicultural practice, assessment, group counseling, and supervised clinical work. Graduates may pursue roles such as licensed professional counselor, school counselor, behavioral health therapist, or case manager, subject to degree and licensure requirements. Spokane-area options include Gonzaga University, Eastern Washington University's Spokane campus, and Whitworth University.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Spokane, Washington, offers pathways from associate degrees to bachelor's and advanced education. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, health assessment, and clinical nursing practice. Students also complete supervised clinical rotations in hospitals and community settings. Popular options include Gonzaga University, Washington State University's College of Nursing in Spokane, and Spokane Community College. Graduates commonly work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, public health, or home health.

Best Colleges in Spokane, WA Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $15,930, compared with $52,940 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $37,010.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 99.2% of students, higher than the 75.25% average at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 75.25%. Schools receive an average of 3,243.75 applicants, compared with 7,390.4 applicants at top-10% schools. The median number of male applicants is 875, while the median number of female applicants is 1,229.5.
• The average SAT score is 1,235 and the average ACT score is 27.
• Average enrollment is 3,451.67 students. The reported averages are 205.5 enrolled men and 320.67 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 54.4%, compared with 80% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 71% for men and 36% for women, a 35-percentage-point difference.
• Two institutions offer associate's degrees, six offer bachelor's degrees, two offer master's degrees, and one offers a doctor's degree. Six schools are coeducational; the reported number of schools for men and schools for women is zero in each category.
• When choosing a college, weigh the median cost and availability of financial aid alongside the graduation rates, degree offerings, and academic measures. Compare the overall figures with those for top-10% schools, and consider the reported differences in graduation rates and enrollment when deciding which institutions best fit your goals.

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

The average total cost of studying in Spokane, WA, is about $24,931, according to the figures. For a student, that number offers a starting point, but your bill will depend on the school, degree, housing choice, and financial aid. Spokane offers exciting options such as Gonzaga University, Whitworth University, and Spokane Community College, each with distinct costs.

Other reported average expenses give a fuller picture, though these category averages should not be added to the $24,931 total because they may reflect different school samples:

• Tuition and fees: $32,509.33.
• Room and board: $16,127.20.
• Books and supplies: $895.60.

If you live at home or attend community college, you may reduce housing costs; campus-based students can compare residence and meal plans. Grants, scholarships, and work-study may make a Spokane degree more affordable. Ask each school for an individualized estimate and compare aid offers with your commute, books, and housing needs and personal goals.

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

In Spokane, WA, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years full time; an associate degree, about two. A master's adds one to two years. Gonzaga University, Eastern Washington University's Spokane programs, and Spokane Falls Community College (with transfer options) offer pathways. Planning can make this goal feel within reach; timing depends on major and credits.

Average graduation rates are 54.4% overall and 80.0% for the top 10% of schools; averages are 63.8% for men and 45.4% for women. Rates indicate completion, not individual outcomes, so ask Spokane colleges about student support.

To graduate faster:

• Earn AP, IB, dual-enrollment, or approved transfer credits to meet requirements and avoid repeating coursework accepted by your chosen college.
• Take summer courses or study year-round, while checking prerequisites, workload, financial aid, and costs with an advisor.
• Explore accelerated programs, online sections, and credit-by-exam options; careful planning can shorten your path without sacrificing support or quality.

Salary

Graduates in Spokane, WA, have a median alumni salary of $45,275; graduates of top 10% schools have a median of $53,061. Your own earnings can vary by degree, career, and experience, but these figures offer a useful starting point as you consider studying at Spokane-area schools such as Gonzaga University, Washington State University Spokane, Eastern Washington University, or Whitworth University.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Spokane?

A practical count is four universities with a campus in Spokane: Gonzaga University, Whitworth University, Washington State University Spokane, and Eastern Washington University's Spokane campus. Counts can differ depending on whether someone includes nearby Cheney or specialized programs hosted in Spokane, so it's helpful to check what a particular list means by "in Spokane."

What is the largest university in Spokane?

Gonzaga University is generally the largest university based in Spokane by student enrollment. Its campus is in the city, and students can choose from a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Enrollment changes from year to year, but Gonzaga is a strong starting point when comparing Spokane's university options.

How many universities are there in Spokane?

For a student choosing a school within Spokane city, the useful short answer is four, using the count of universities with a Spokane campus. The number is not a count of every college or training institution in the area, and it may increase if you include universities in nearby communities.

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

Gonzaga University gives Spokane, WA, students a private university option with 7,070 enrolled students and an 82% acceptance rate. Its 86% graduation rate and $58,183 median alumni salary are notable outcomes, while total study cost is $54,380. As a Jesuit university, it combines liberal arts and professional learning. For someone staying in Spokane, consider campus life, housing, and commuting alongside tuition and career goals. Its Spokane location can keep internships, community ties, and family support close during a college experience.

Whitworth University is a private liberal arts university in Spokane, giving local students a campus-based alternative. It enrolls 2,315 students, reports a 90% acceptance rate and 71% graduation rate, and lists total study cost of $51,500. Median alumni salary is $45,275, a useful comparison point rather than a guarantee of individual earnings. For Spokane, WA, applicants, weigh its smaller enrollment and educational approach against budget, intended major, and plans to remain nearby after graduation. Assess campus and Spokane neighborhoods firsthand.

Spokane Falls Community College is a public two-year college serving students in Spokane, WA, with 4,319 enrolled. Its 32% graduation rate and unavailable acceptance-rate figure should be interpreted in the context of community-college pathways, where many learners transfer, study part time, or pursue credentials. Total study cost is $5,923, and median alumni salary is $38,262. For local students seeking a lower-cost start, compare program availability, transfer agreements, completion support, and commuting options before choosing a degree route that supports career goals.

Spokane Community College is a public college in Spokane, WA, enrolling 6,813 students. Its 33% graduation rate and unavailable acceptance-rate data are best considered alongside students' varied goals, including technical training, certificates, and transfer study. The listed total study cost is $5,923, while median alumni salary is $45,378. For Spokane residents, the relatively low stated cost may make it worth comparing programs, class schedules, student services, and pathways to local employment or further education before committing to a specific program.

Whitworth University-Adult Degree Programs offers Spokane-area adults a Whitworth-affiliated route to higher education, with 145 students enrolled. The reported acceptance rate is 29%; graduation-rate data are unavailable. Total study cost is $13,560, and median alumni salary is $45,275. As an adult degree option, it may suit learners balancing education with work or family responsibilities. In Spokane, WA, ask about scheduling, transfer-credit evaluation, program formats, and support services, then compare the stated cost with your timeline and future career plans carefully.