Best
Colleges in Seattle in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Seattle, Washington, connects business skills with the city's technology, health-care, and startup industries. Typical courses include accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business analytics, and organizational behavior. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, operations manager, or business consultant. Seattle options include the University of Washington's Foster School of Business, Seattle University's Albers School of Business and Economics, and Seattle Pacific University, offering business-related degree pathways.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Seattle, WA, typically combines foundational theory with research and practical skills. Courses often include developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, statistics, research methods, and neuroscience. Popular Seattle options include the University of Washington, Seattle University, and Seattle Pacific University. Graduates may pursue roles such as mental health technician, case manager, behavioral health specialist, research assistant, or human resources coordinator. Clinical counseling and psychologist careers generally require graduate education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Seattle, WA offers access to a thriving technology ecosystem and hands-on learning. Programs typically cover programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, data analysts, systems engineers, or cybersecurity specialists. Popular Seattle colleges offering computer science include the University of Washington, Seattle University, and Seattle Pacific University. Many programs emphasize collaborative projects, problem-solving, and practical experience with tools used by local employers.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Seattle, WA combines theory, supervised practice, and multicultural perspectives. Typical courses include counseling skills, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and diagnosis. Programs may prepare graduates for licensure as professional counselors. Common careers include mental health counselor, school counselor (with appropriate credentials), substance use counselor, and college wellness counselor. Seattle University, Seattle Pacific University, and Antioch University Seattle offer relevant counseling degrees with clinical training and licensure-focused coursework for practice.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Seattle, WA combines learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and adult, pediatric, and mental-health care. Students build skills in patient communication, medication safety, and evidence-based practice. Seattle institutions offering nursing programs include the University of Washington, Seattle University, and Seattle Central College. Graduates may work in hospitals as registered nurses, nurse educators, or care coordinators.

Best Colleges in Seattle, WA Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 29,340.0 overall, compared with 43,456.5 at schools in the top 10%, so those top-ranked schools have a higher median cost.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 65.25% at top 10% schools. The average acceptance rate is 65.25%.
• Schools receive an average of 20,442.0 applicants, while those in the top 10% average 50,956.6. The median number of applicants is 2,074.0 men and 3,595.5 women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,200.0 and 26.0, respectively. Average enrollment is 8,628.1 students, with averages of 916.0 enrolled men and 1,232.5 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 54.0% overall and 78.7% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 55.0% for men and 53.5% for women.
• Among the institutions, 4 offer associate's degrees, 10 offer bachelor's degrees, 8 offer master's degrees, and 4 offer doctor's degrees. There are 10 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost with financial aid availability, and consider how admissions selectivity, enrollment, and graduation outcomes fit your needs. The higher average graduation rate at top 10% schools may be worth weighing alongside their higher median cost and lower reported financial-aid coverage.

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

For a student studying in Seattle, WA, the average total cost is $26,500.20. This gives you a useful planning benchmark as you compare options such as the University of Washington, Seattle University, and Seattle Colleges. Your actual bill will depend on the school, degree, residency status, and whether you live on campus, but knowing the local average can make the next steps feel more manageable and exciting.

Other average cost figures include:

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

These figures do not reconcile as one budget, so use them as separate benchmarks rather than adding them together. Check each school's estimate and ask about aid or payment plans. Compare program-specific tuition at UW and Seattle University, and explore Seattle Colleges. A budget can help you choose a program that fits your goals while enjoying Seattle's campus life and career possibilities.

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

In Seattle, WA, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years full time; an associate degree usually takes two. At the University of Washington Seattle or Seattle University, part-time study, a major change, or prerequisites can extend your timeline. Planning each term helps you stay on track.

Graduation outcomes offer a useful reality check: the average graduation rate is 54.0%, compared with 78.7% among the top 10% of schools. The averages are 52.12% for men and 54.62% for women. These figures show that finishing is achievable, but persistence and support matter.

Ways to finish sooner include:

• Bringing in AP, IB, or eligible transfer credits, after checking how Seattle colleges apply them.
• Taking summer classes or a heavier course load when finances, advising, and workload allow.
• Choosing an accelerated or year-round schedule, and using online or competency-based courses where available.

Ask an adviser to verify credits and build a realistic term-by-term plan.

Salary

After graduating from college in Seattle, WA, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $53,359. Graduates of schools in the top 10% have a median alumni salary of about $62,896. These figures offer a helpful benchmark, though your own earnings will depend on your field, experience, and employer.

Seattle students can pursue degrees at schools such as the University of Washington, Seattle University, and Seattle Pacific University. Whichever campus you choose, building relevant experience through internships, projects, or local professional connections can help you feel more prepared to pursue career opportunities after graduation.

People also ask

How many colleges are in Seattle?

There isn't one official count, since it depends on whether you include community-college campuses and specialized schools. A useful estimate is around a dozen colleges and universities in Seattle. The Seattle Colleges system alone includes North Seattle College, Seattle Central College, and South Seattle College, alongside institutions such as the University of Washington and Seattle University.

What is the main college in Seattle?

The University of Washington's Seattle campus is generally the city's best-known and largest university, so it's often what people mean by Seattle's "main" college. Its lively campus, broad range of subjects, and strong connection to the city make it a popular choice. Seattle also has other well-known options, including Seattle University and Seattle Pacific University.

Where do college students go in Seattle?

Students spend time around their campuses, but popular hangouts include the University District for cafés and food, Capitol Hill for restaurants and nightlife, and Fremont for shops and neighborhood events. Many also meet friends at parks, libraries, music venues, and Pike Place Market. Seattle's mix of nature and city life makes it easy to find a favorite spot.

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

Seattle University offers a private university experience in the heart of Seattle, WA. It enrolls 7,354 students and reports a 76% graduation rate alongside a 77% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $55,620, while median alumni salary is $55,528. Students can study in a major city with cultural venues, transit, and regional employers nearby. The campus setting may appeal to learners seeking an urban private institution and access to Seattle's civic and professional life during their degree years here.

The University of Washington-Seattle Campus is a large public research university in Seattle, WA. Its enrollment of 57,283 makes it the largest school in this group, with an 85% graduation rate and 39% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $42,105, and median alumni salary is $53,359. Students can pursue degrees in a busy campus environment while living near Seattle's employers, neighborhoods, and transit. Its public-university scale offers a distinctly broad setting for Seattle-based students considering academic and career options locally.

Seattle Pacific University is a private university in Seattle, WA, offering students a smaller campus community. It enrolls 2,101 students, with a 62% graduation rate and an 83% acceptance rate. The total cost of studying is $39,492, and median alumni salary is $53,059. For students who want to earn a degree in Seattle, its setting connects campus life with the city's neighborhoods and services. Its comparatively modest enrollment may suit learners seeking a more close-knit university experience in the region.

Cornish College of the Arts is a small arts-focused college in Seattle, WA, with 505 enrolled students. It reports a 56% graduation rate and a 62% acceptance rate. The total cost of studying is $40,038; median alumni salary data is unavailable. Students pursuing an arts degree can study in Seattle's creative urban setting, with cultural institutions and performances nearby. Its compact enrollment may offer an intimate campus atmosphere for those seeking specialized arts education and engagement with local creative life.

Seattle Central College is a public two-year college in Seattle, WA, serving 5,396 students. Its graduation rate is 32%; acceptance-rate data is unavailable. The listed total cost of studying is $5,046, the lowest among these five schools, and median alumni salary is $62,011. Its central-city location can be especially practical for students seeking an accessible route to a degree while living in Seattle. Learners may value its urban campus and proximity to transit, services, and the city's varied local communities.