
516 High St., Bellingham, WA 98225-5996, USA


Courtesy of Western Washington University
Western Washington University was established in 1893 as a teacher training school, reflecting its early commitment to education. Over the years, it evolved from a normal school into a comprehensive university, expanding its academic offerings beyond teacher education to a wide range of disciplines. This growth was marked by a series of name changes and institutional developments that aligned with the increasing scope and diversity of its programs. The university's history is characterized by its adaptability and steady expansion, responding to the changing educational needs of the region and the nation. Throughout its development, Western Washington University has maintained a focus on providing quality education and fostering a strong connection with its community.
Western Washington University offers a diverse range of academic faculties and departments designed to cater to various interests and career goals. Prospective students can explore programs across multiple disciplines, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.
The university is organized into several primary colleges, each housing numerous specialized departments. The College of Business and Economics provides education in fields such as accounting, finance, marketing, and management, preparing students for dynamic roles in the business world. Meanwhile, the College of Science and Engineering offers departments including biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental science, geology, and physics, ideal for students seeking careers in scientific research or technological innovation.
For those interested in arts and humanities, Western Washington University hosts the College of Fine and Performing Arts and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. These colleges present departments in areas like art, music, theatre, English, history, philosophy, psychology, and sociology, encouraging creative and critical thinking development.
The university also emphasizes education and human development through its College of Education and the College of Health and Human Development. These faculties focus on training future educators, health professionals, and human services practitioners, equipping students with practical skills for meaningful community impact.
Overall, the wide-ranging faculties and departments at Western Washington University establish a foundation for academic rigor combined with opportunities for interdisciplinary study and personal growth.
Western Washington University is situated in Bellingham, Washington, at 516 High Street, ZIP code 98225-5996. This location places the university within an accessible area of the city, which is known for its vibrant community and proximity to natural landscapes, offering students a balanced environment for academic life and outdoor activities. Bellingham is served by the Bellingham International Airport, which facilitates convenient travel options for students coming from different regions.
Western Washington University emphasizes a commitment to providing high-quality education that prepares students for meaningful careers and engaged citizenship. Its mission centers on fostering intellectual growth, creativity, and critical thinking through rigorous academic programs. The university strives to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment that encourages diversity and promotes social responsibility.
In its vision, Western Washington University aims to be recognized as a leading institution that cultivates innovation and leadership. It seeks to empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex global challenges. The university also highlights its dedication to community partnership and sustainability as integral components of its long-term educational goals.
Name of the institution
Western Washington UniversityLevel of institution
Four or more yearsControl of institution
PublicSetting type
City: SmallInstitutional Category
Degree - granting, primarily baccalaureate or aboveInstitution size category
10,000 - 19,999School type
UniversityMain student body
CoeducationalCalendar system
QuartersFoundation year
1893
Certificate of less than 1 year
Bachelor's degree
Postbaccalaureate certificate
Master's degree
Post-master's certificate
Doctor's degree - research/scholarship
Doctor's degree - professional practice
Certificate of at least 1 year, but less than 2 years
Associate's degree
Certificate of at least 2 years, but less than 4 years
Doctor's degree - other
Other degreeDegrees
Accounting and Related Services
$46,243Anthropology
$27,803Applied Mathematics
$36,366Area Studies
$23,659Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
$34,529Biology, General
$22,308Business Administration, Management and Operations
$42,166Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
$33,140Chemistry
$34,788Communication and Media Studies
$32,487Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
$26,203Computer and Information Sciences, General
$69,837Design and Applied Arts
$39,818Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
$27,543East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
$27,933Economics
$38,176Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
$68,568English Language and Literature, General
$22,884Finance and Financial Management Services
$41,065Fine and Studio Arts
$24,490Geography and Cartography
$29,880Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
$34,569Health and Physical Education/Fitness
$27,634Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
$26,408History
$24,557Human Services, General
$33,003International Business
$35,386Journalism
$34,510Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
$25,901Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
$24,576Management Information Systems and Services
$52,624Manufacturing Engineering
$66,425Marketing
$40,450Mathematics
$23,832Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
$38,384Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
$28,664Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
$22,773Music
$21,568Natural Resources Conservation and Research
$25,380Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies
$26,359Philosophy
$19,765Physics
$43,871Political Science and Government
$29,100Polymer/Plastics Engineering
$55,793Psychology, General
$27,918Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
$71,492Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
$22,536Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
$27,288Sociology
$26,202Special Education and Teaching
$49,253Sustainability Studies
$29,412Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
$50,090Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
$46,458