Washington state is home to a number of prestigious private colleges and universities that provide high-quality education across a wide range of disciplines. These institutions are known for their academic excellence, unique learning environments, and commitment to creating leaders in various fields.
1. Gonzaga University
History and Overview
- Founded: 1887
- Location: Spokane, Washington
- Affiliation: Roman Catholic (Jesuit)
- Student Population: Approximately 7,500 students (undergraduate and graduate)
- Motto: “Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam” (For the Greater Glory of God)
Gonzaga University is a comprehensive Roman Catholic, Jesuit institution that emphasizes educating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. It is one of the most respected private universities in Washington, with a strong focus on leadership, service, and social justice.
Academic Excellence
Gonzaga offers over 75 undergraduate majors, along with numerous graduate programs and professional degrees. It is particularly renowned for its programs in:
- Business
- Law
- Engineering
- Nursing
- Education
The Gonzaga School of Law and the School of Business Administration have garnered national recognition for their rigorous curriculum and strong alumni networks.
Campus Life
Gonzaga offers a vibrant campus life grounded in the Jesuit tradition of service and education. Students are encouraged to engage in:
- Community service initiatives
- Leadership programs
- Campus ministry activities
Extracurricular life includes more than 130 student clubs and organizations, as well as intramural sports. Gonzaga’s men’s basketball team, known for its success in the NCAA tournaments, is a major part of campus culture.
Notable Features
- Strong Focus on Social Justice: Gonzaga’s Jesuit mission emphasizes service to others, with students actively involved in community outreach and social justice programs.
- Global Education: Gonzaga offers several study abroad opportunities, with the flagship program located in Florence, Italy.
- Athletics Excellence: Gonzaga’s basketball team is consistently one of the top-ranked in the nation, enhancing school spirit and community involvement.
2. Seattle University
History and Overview
- Founded: 1891
- Location: Seattle, Washington
- Affiliation: Roman Catholic (Jesuit)
- Student Population: Approximately 7,200 students
- Motto: “For the Greater Good”
Seattle University is a Jesuit Catholic university located in the heart of Seattle. It is known for its commitment to academic rigor, service to the community, and educating students to be ethical leaders.
Academic Excellence
Seattle University offers over 65 undergraduate programs, 31 graduate programs, and several professional degrees across schools such as:
- Albers School of Business and Economics
- School of Law
- College of Science and Engineering
- College of Nursing
- College of Education
The Albers School of Business and Economics is particularly renowned, frequently ranked among the top business schools in the Pacific Northwest.
Campus Life
The campus community at Seattle University is diverse and inclusive, with many opportunities for students to grow both academically and socially. Students can engage in:
- Over 100 student organizations
- Service-learning projects
- Faith-based activities
Seattle’s urban location offers students access to professional networks, internships, and cultural experiences in the city.
Notable Features
- Social Justice Mission: Like Gonzaga, Seattle University is deeply rooted in Jesuit values, promoting community service and ethical leadership.
- Sustainability: Seattle University is committed to sustainability, with the campus having achieved recognition for its environmental initiatives.
- Urban Engagement: Located in downtown Seattle, the university offers students many opportunities to engage with businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations.
3. Whitman College
History and Overview
- Founded: 1882
- Location: Walla Walla, Washington
- Affiliation: Independent
- Student Population: Approximately 1,500 students
- Motto: “Per ardua surgo” (I rise through adversity)
Whitman College is a small liberal arts institution known for its rigorous academics, tight-knit community, and beautiful campus. As one of the top liberal arts colleges in the Pacific Northwest, Whitman offers a personalized and intellectually engaging environment.
Academic Excellence
Whitman offers more than 45 majors across disciplines, with strengths in:
- Natural sciences
- Social sciences
- Humanities
The college emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and fosters an environment where students are encouraged to pursue a breadth of academic interests. The Environmental Studies and Politics programs are particularly noteworthy.
Campus Life
Whitman College offers an intimate campus life where students engage in:
- Research projects
- Student government
- Outdoor recreation programs (thanks to its proximity to the Blue Mountains)
Whitman is also known for its strong Greek life, with approximately one-third of students involved in fraternities and sororities.
Notable Features
- Commitment to Undergraduate Research: Whitman encourages students to engage in independent research, often resulting in prestigious academic accolades.
- Outdoor Program: The Whitman Outdoor Program is central to campus life, offering students opportunities for outdoor adventures such as skiing, hiking, and kayaking.
- Close Faculty-Student Interaction: With a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, Whitman emphasizes personalized attention and close mentorship from professors.
4. Pacific Lutheran University (PLU)
History and Overview
- Founded: 1890
- Location: Tacoma, Washington
- Affiliation: Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)
- Student Population: Approximately 3,100 students
- Motto: “Educating for Lives of Service”
Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) is a private university with strong ties to its Lutheran heritage. PLU combines liberal arts education with professional programs, offering students a well-rounded academic experience.
Academic Excellence
PLU offers more than 40 undergraduate majors and several graduate programs. The university is particularly well known for its programs in:
- Nursing
- Business
- Education
- Music
The School of Nursing is one of the best in the state, and PLU’s music programs have earned national recognition.
Campus Life
Campus life at PLU emphasizes community, service, and global engagement. Students participate in:
- Service learning and volunteering opportunities
- International study programs
- Athletics and performing arts
PLU’s study away programs are particularly robust, with more than 50% of students participating in a global education experience during their time at the university.
Notable Features
- Global Education Focus: PLU is nationally recognized for its commitment to global education, offering many opportunities for students to study abroad.
- Lutheran Heritage: While rooted in Lutheran values, PLU welcomes students from all faith backgrounds and emphasizes spiritual growth and ethical leadership.
- Environmental Sustainability: The university is committed to environmental sustainability, with several campus initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint.
5. University of Puget Sound
History and Overview
- Founded: 1888
- Location: Tacoma, Washington
- Affiliation: Independent
- Student Population: Approximately 2,600 students
- Motto: “To the heights”
The University of Puget Sound is a liberal arts college that blends academic rigor with a deep commitment to fostering independent thinking, creativity, and leadership. It offers students a close-knit community with extensive opportunities for intellectual growth.
Academic Excellence
The university offers more than 50 areas of study, with strong programs in:
- Biology
- Psychology
- Environmental Studies
- International Political Economy
The School of Music and the School of Occupational Therapy are particularly well-regarded.
Campus Life
The University of Puget Sound has a vibrant campus culture where students are encouraged to participate in:
- Greek life
- The arts and music performances
- Leadership and volunteer opportunities
Tacoma’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking.
Notable Features
- Emphasis on Interdisciplinary Learning: Puget Sound promotes interdisciplinary studies, encouraging students to make connections between different academic fields.
- Commitment to Diversity: The university values inclusivity, with several programs and centers aimed at supporting underrepresented groups.
- Vibrant Arts Scene: The School of Music and Theater Arts Program are integral to campus life, offering numerous performances and exhibitions throughout the year.
6. Seattle Pacific University (SPU)
History and Overview
- Founded: 1891
- Location: Seattle, Washington
- Affiliation: Free Methodist Church
- Student Population: Approximately 4,000 students
- Motto: “Engaging the Culture, Changing the World”
Seattle Pacific University is a private Christian university that integrates faith with learning. It is known for its academic rigor, commitment to service, and strong emphasis on global and cultural engagement.
Academic Excellence
SPU offers over 70 undergraduate majors and 30 graduate programs, with particular strengths in:
- Business
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Theology
The School of Health Sciences and the School of Business, Government, and Economics are two of the university’s standout academic units.
Campus Life
SPU provides a faith-based campus environment where students are encouraged to engage in:
- Community service
- Spiritual development
- Student leadership
The university offers a variety of student-led organizations, clubs, and faith-based groups, as well as opportunities for students to study abroad or participate in service trips.
Notable Features
- Faith Integration: SPU’s academic programs are infused with Christian values, with an emphasis on applying faith to real-world challenges.
- Global Awareness: The university promotes cultural competence and global awareness, offering students numerous opportunities for international study and cross-cultural learning.
- Health Sciences Leadership: SPU’s nursing program is one of the best in the state, preparing students to become leaders in the healthcare industry.
7. Saint Martin’s University
History and Overview
- Founded: 1895
- Location: Lacey, Washington
- Affiliation: Roman Catholic (Benedictine)
- Student Population: Approximately 1,300 students
- Motto: “Listening, Learning, Serving”
Saint Martin’s University is a Benedictine Catholic university located in Lacey, Washington. It combines a liberal arts education with professional programs, offering a personalized and values-driven educational experience.
Academic Excellence
Saint Martin’s offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in:
- Engineering
- Business
- Education
- Nursing
The university’s Engineering School is especially noteworthy, offering programs that are accredited and recognized for their focus on hands-on learning.
Campus Life
Saint Martin’s offers a supportive, close-knit campus community where students engage in:
- Community service
- Faith-based activities
- Leadership development
The university’s Benedictine tradition emphasizes balance, service to others, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Notable Features
- Benedictine Values: Saint Martin’s emphasizes the values of community, hospitality, and stewardship, which are rooted in the university’s Benedictine heritage.
- Engineering Excellence: The university’s engineering programs are highly regarded, offering students opportunities for internships and research in high-demand fields.
- Small Class Sizes: With a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, Saint Martin’s offers personalized attention and mentorship.