Logo of University of Puget Sound

University of Puget Sound

Tacoma, United States • Founded 1888

Updated Oct 2026 · Source: pugetsound.edu

Overview

English Name: University of Puget Sound
Acronyms: UPS
Founded: 1888
Institution Type: University
Control Type: Private
Entity Type: Non-profit
Motto: To the heights
Colours: Maroon and white
Mascot: Grizz the Logger
Students at University of Puget Sound
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Established in 1888, the University of Puget Sound is a non-profit private liberal arts higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Tacoma (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Washington.

Officially accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, University of Puget Sound (UPS) is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution. University of Puget Sound (UPS) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.

This 135-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 80-89% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.

International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.

UPS also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Where to find University of Puget Sound, plus its phone, email, website, and social media links.

Address: 1500 N. Warner Street
Postal Code: 98416
Phone: +1 (253) 879 3100
Fax: +1 (253) 879 3993
Social Media:

Academic Details

University of Puget Sound's academic profile in numbers is listed below.

Recognition: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Total Students: 1,594
Academic Staff Range: 200-299
Campus Setting: Urban
Memberships & Networks
Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) National Athletic Association (NAA) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Academic Structures

Below is how University of Puget Sound is organised academically — the schools, faculties, and units.

Unit 5 items
  • School of Business and Leadership
  • School of Education
  • School of Music
  • School of Occupational Therapy
  • School of Physical Therapy

Programs Offered

The full set of programmes University of Puget Sound offers is searchable and grouped by level below.

34 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States

Bachelor's Degree 31 programmes

Bachelor's Degree in African American Studies
African Studies · 4 years

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Bachelor's Degree in AI & Human Values
Philosophy & Ethics · 4 years

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Bachelor's Degree in Bioethics
Philosophy & Ethics · 4 years

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Bachelor's Degree in Crime, Law & Justice Studies
Criminal Law & Justice · 4 years

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Bachelor's Degree in Data Analytics
Data Science & Analytics · 4 years

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Showing 10 of 31.

Professional Doctorate 1 programme

How to apply to University of Puget Sound

The application path for University of Puget Sound, in five steps.

  1. 1
    Research programmes at University of Puget Sound

    University of Puget Sound's catalogue includes 34 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.

  2. 2
    Review admissions criteria

    Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for University of Puget Sound's admissions process.

  3. 3
    Gather supporting documents

    Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.

  4. 4
    Lodge your application

    Submit your completed application through University of Puget Sound's official website at www.pugetsound.edu. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.

  5. 5
    Confirm receipt and track progress

    Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (253) 879 3100. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.

Frequently Asked Questions about University of Puget Sound

Quick answers to common questions about University of Puget Sound.

In what year was University of Puget Sound established?

University of Puget Sound was founded in 1888 (approximately 138 years ago).

In which city is University of Puget Sound?

University of Puget Sound is based in Tacoma, United States.

Is University of Puget Sound public or private?

It is a private higher-education institution.

How many students study at University of Puget Sound?

University of Puget Sound has approximately 1,594 students.

What is University of Puget Sound's academic structure?

University of Puget Sound is organised into 5 academic units across its disciplines.

Is University of Puget Sound officially recognised?

University of Puget Sound is accredited by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Where can I learn more about University of Puget Sound?

The institution's website is www.pugetsound.edu.

Top-Ranked Universities in the United States

Looking for the strongest names in the United States? These are the highest-ranked institutions nationally — useful context for benchmarking University of Puget Sound against the country's most established universities. National benchmarks also signal the upper bound of academic prestige in the United States.

Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

University of Puget Sound and the universities below are both members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

Faculties at nearby universities

Below are universities in the same area as University of Puget Sound.

Where Else to Study Philosophy & Ethics

Below: other the United States universities that offer Philosophy & Ethics programmes.

Universities Compared with University of Puget Sound

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