Most
Affordable Colleges in Tacoma in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Tacoma offers a foundation in organizations, management, and decision-making. Typical courses include accounting, marketing, economics, finance, human resources, business law, and operations. Graduates commonly pursue roles as management trainees, marketing coordinators, financial analysts, human-resources specialists, or business operations supervisors. Local options include the University of Washington Tacoma's Milgard School of Business, Pacific Lutheran University, and Tacoma Community College, which offers business transfer pathways. Programs may vary in degree level and format.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Tacoma, Washington, offers pathways at the University of Washington Tacoma and University of Puget Sound, with Tacoma Community College providing foundational coursework. Students study developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, alongside statistics and research methods. Programs build skills in understanding behavior, assessment, and communication. Graduates with a bachelor's degree pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, research assistant, or human resources coordinator; further education is needed for licensed practice.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Tacoma, WA, lets students build skills in programming and problem-solving while exploring technology careers. Typical coursework includes programming languages, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, software engineering, and cybersecurity. Popular Tacoma options include the University of Washington Tacoma and the University of Puget Sound, both with computer science programs. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, and application developers across businesses and public agencies.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Tacoma, Washington, combines psychology, human development, counseling theories, ethics, assessment, multicultural practice, and supervised fieldwork. Students may specialize in school, mental health, or marriage and family counseling. Tacoma-area options include the University of Puget Sound, with school counseling study, and Pacific Lutheran University, which offers marriage and family therapy training. Graduates commonly pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, family therapists, case managers, or substance-use counselors after meeting licensure requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Tacoma, Washington, can prepare you for patient care or further study. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and clinical practice. Tacoma Community College offers an associate nursing pathway, University of Washington Tacoma provides RN-to-BSN study, and Bates Technical College offers practical nursing education. Graduates commonly work as registered or practical nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term-care facilities, and community health, or pursue public-health nursing after gaining experience.

Best Colleges in Tacoma, WA Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is $18,000, compared with $54,981.60 at schools in the top 10% - a $36,981.60 difference.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid overall, compared with 74.75% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 74.75%. Schools receive an average of 3,599 applicants, while those in the top 10% receive 5,164.9. The median applicant counts are 1,894.5 men and 2,563 women.
• Average test scores are 1,262 on the SAT and 27 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 2,949.57. The averages reported for enrolled men and women are 188.5 and 237.5, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 51.14%, compared with 68.4% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 56% for men and 61% for women.
• Among the institutions, 2 offer associate's degrees, 7 offer bachelor's degrees, 4 offer master's degrees, and 2 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 7 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid together, and weigh those against graduation outcomes. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs but also higher average graduation rates; prospective students should also consider the available degree levels, admissions context, and reported test scores when deciding which school best fits their goals.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in Tacoma, WA, is $28,907.71. Treat this as an estimate, not a guaranteed price for an entire degree: expenses depend on the college, program, residency status, and how many years you attend. For a Tacoma-area student, comparing the University of Washington Tacoma, Tacoma Community College, and Pacific Lutheran University can help you find a campus and pathway that fit your goals and budget.

The supplied averages list $23,770.71 for tuition and fees, $15,416.60 for room and board, and $1,080 for books and supplies. Because these component figures exceed the stated total, they do not form a consistent itemized budget. Check school cost-of-attendance estimates and ask about grants, scholarships, and transfer options. Living at home, choosing affordable textbooks, and completing general education courses affordably can reduce expenses. With planning, Tacoma offers ways to pursue a degree while keeping your studies financially manageable.

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

In Tacoma, a bachelor's degree generally takes four years of full-time study; an associate degree at Tacoma Community College usually takes two. At the University of Washington Tacoma or Pacific Lutheran University, your timeline depends on your major, course availability, and study load. Work or family commitments and changing majors may add semesters, so an adviser can help you map a realistic, encouraging plan.

You may finish sooner by applying AP/IB or transfer credits, taking summer courses, or choosing an accelerated program. Check that credits meet degree requirements first. Tacoma colleges may offer online or evening classes, helping you balance school with other responsibilities.

Graduation rates provide perspective: the average is 51.14%, rising to 68.4% for the top 10% of schools. Rates average 51.86% for men and 51.14% for women. These rates show persistence matters; advising and tutoring can help you stay on track toward a Tacoma-area degree with confidence.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Tacoma, WA, earn a median alumni salary of about $47,285. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $56,059 - a promising benchmark as you plan your career after earning a degree.

Tacoma students can pursue a range of programs at places such as the University of Washington Tacoma, the University of Puget Sound, Pacific Lutheran University, and Tacoma Community College. Your own earnings may vary depending on your field, experience, and the job you pursue.

• Median alumni salary: about $47,285
• Median alumni salary for graduates of top 10% schools: about $56,059

People also ask

How much does it cost to go to college in Tacoma?

For a Washington resident studying full time at a public college, a rough estimate is about $5,000-$13,000 per academic year for tuition and required fees. Tacoma Community College is generally toward the lower end, while University of Washington Tacoma is closer to the higher end. Housing, food, books, transportation, and program fees add to the total.

What college in Tacoma has the lowest tuition?

Tacoma Community College is often one of the lowest-cost options for a local student pursuing general college coursework, especially compared with a four-year university. The exact cheapest choice can depend on your program, residency, and fees; technical programs may have different costs. Compare current tuition and required fees for your specific course load before deciding.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Tacoma, WA Ranking in 2026-2027

University of Washington-Tacoma Campus enrolls 5,045 students and reports a 63% graduation rate and 83% acceptance rate. Its listed total study cost is $42,105, while median alumni salary is $53,359. As a university campus in Tacoma, it offers a local option for students who want to pursue a bachelor's degree without leaving the area. Compare the cost with your budget and ask about program choices, financial aid, commuting, and housing before deciding whether its academic setting fits your goals.

Tacoma Community College is a community college serving students seeking local higher education and career-focused study in Tacoma, WA. It enrolls 6,199 students, with a 32% graduation rate; acceptance rate data is unavailable. The total cost is $10,911, and median alumni salary is $58,758. For a prospective student, this lower cost may merit comparison with four-year options. Explore transfer pathways, certificates, programs, and student support, and consider how studying close to home in Tacoma fits your education and career plans.

Bates Technical College, in Tacoma, WA, offers practical, career-oriented education. It enrolls 4,083 students, with a 43% graduation rate; acceptance data is unavailable. Total study cost is $10,832, while median alumni salary data is unavailable. For local students, studying nearby may keep education accessible while developing job skills. Ask about credentials, hands-on training, transfer options, and support services, then compare program costs and outcomes to see whether this technical college fits your goals and budget for your Tacoma-area career plans.

Faith International University is a small university option in Tacoma, WA, for students exploring higher education in a faith-oriented setting. It enrolls 464 students and reports a 25% graduation rate; acceptance rate data is unavailable. The total listed study cost is $8,100, and median alumni salary is $42,207. Its small enrollment may appeal to students seeking an intimate campus community. Ask about degree programs, campus support, and total expenses, then compare outcomes and academic fit with your goals and budget.

Northwest College of Art & Design offers an art-and-design-focused option for students in Tacoma, WA, interested in creative study. It enrolls 139 students, reports a 58% graduation rate, and has a 66% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $18,000; median alumni salary is $34,868. Its small enrollment may suit learners who value a focused college environment. Before applying, review available programs, portfolio expectations, financial aid, and career support, and weigh the cost and outcomes against your creative and professional goals.