
Bellingham, WApublicwwu.edu/
Western Washington University is a public liberal arts university in Bellingham, WA, known for its strong environmental science programs, laid-back Pacific Northwest vibe, and high acceptance rate (93%). With 200+ academic programs, a focus on hands-on learning, and a stunning location between the Salish Sea and the North Cascades, WWU attracts outdoorsy, socially conscious students who want a mid-sized university experience without cutthroat competition.
WWU is one of the least selective public universities in the Pacific Northwest, with a 93.2% Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. ([BigFuture](https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/western-washington-university/admissions), [PrepScholar](https://www.prepscholar.com/sat/s/colleges/Western-Washington-University-sat-scores-GPA)). The middle 50% of admitted students have SAT scores between 1130-1320 and ACT scores between 22-30 ([BigFuture](https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/western-washington-university/admissions), [MeetYourClass](https://www.meetyourclass.com/wwu)). Applications are due January 31, with a $70 fee ([MeetYourClass](https://www.meetyourclass.com/wwu)). About 33% of admitted students enroll ([Parchment](https://www.parchment.com/c/college/college-1693-Western-Washington-University.html)).
WWU offers 200+ academic programs ([WWU Majors](https://www.wwu.edu/majors)), with particularly strong reputations in:
The most popular majors are social sciences, business, and interdisciplinary studies ([US News](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/western-washington-3802/academics)). The university emphasizes hands-on learning and undergraduate research ([Admissions](https://admissions.wwu.edu/academics)).
Campus culture leans outdoorsy and alternative—one Reddit user calls it "a stoner school like Humboldt" with no Greek life ([Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/WWU/comments/18t5wc6/what_is_campus_culture_like_at_wwu/)). Only 30% of students live on campus ([US News](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/western-washington-3802/student-life)), with many opting for Bellingham's rental houses. The 200+ student clubs range from Quidditch to a cappella ([ISSS](https://isss.wwu.edu/campus-life-resources)). The location—between the Salish Sea and North Cascades—means hiking, kayaking, and skiing dominate weekends ([Student Experience](https://www.wwu.edu/student-experience)).
WWU has a 66% six-year graduation rate (top 35% of peers) and 40% four-year rate ([Research.com](https://research.com/best-colleges/western-washington-university/graduation-rate-and-career), [US News](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/western-washington-3802)). Graduates earn a median $36,427 one year out and $45,272 after six years ([Niche](https://www.niche.com/colleges/western-washington-university/after-college/), [US News](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/western-washington-3802)). Notably, 91% of recent grads were employed or in grad school within six months ([WWU News](https://news.wwu.edu/wwu-career-services-center-report-shows-improving-job-market-for-graduates)).
The average net price (after aid) is $19,537 ([US News](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/western-washington-3802/paying)). WWU provides a [Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. Calculator](https://financialaid.wwu.edu/net-price-calculator) that estimates costs minus grants/scholarships. Financial aid packages typically include a mix of grants, loans, and work-study ([BigFuture](https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/western-washington-university/tuition-and-costs)).
WWU combines accessibility (93% Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants.) with academic strengths in environmental science and CS—all in a quintessential Pacific Northwest setting. Unlike larger state schools, it offers small classes (student-faculty ratio isn't published, but the vibe is hands-on) and a tight-knit, outdoorsy community. For students who want research opportunities without cutthroat competition, WWU delivers—especially for those drawn to sustainability-focused fields.