Western Washington University
Bellingham, United States • Founded 1893 • QS 2025 #1401-1503
Updated Oct 2026 · Source: wwu.edu
Overview
Established in 1893, the Western Washington University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Bellingham (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Washington.
Officially accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, Western Washington University (WWU) is a large-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Western Washington University (WWU) 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 131-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 90-99% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
WWU 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, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Below are Western Washington University's address, location, and primary contact channels.
Academic Details
Western Washington University's academic profile in numbers is listed below.
Academic Structures
Western Washington University's academic structure — schools, colleges, and divisions — is listed below.
Unit 8 items
- College of Business and Economics
- College of Fine and Performing Arts
- College of Humanities and Social Sciences
- College of Sciences and Technology
- Fairhaven College
- Graduate School
- Huxley College of the Environment
- Woodring College of Education
Programs Offered
Western Washington University's programme list, with search and degree-level grouping.
159 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 98 programmes
Showing 10 of 98.
Master's Degree 40 programmes
Showing 10 of 40.
Doctorate 1 programme
Professional Doctorate 1 programme
Certificate 12 programmes
Showing 10 of 12.
Postgraduate Certificate 7 programmes
How to apply to Western Washington University
How to apply to Western Washington University — a five-step structure.
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1
Identify the right programme
Use the programme finder to browse Western Washington University's 159 active programmes. Filter by keyword or scan by degree level. Read curriculum details on each programme's dedicated page if available.
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2
Check entry requirements
Programme-level requirements at Western Washington University typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, identity documents, and a personal statement or interview. Confirm specific requirements with the admissions office.
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3
Prepare your application documents
Prepare academic transcripts, ID/passport copies, language proficiency proof, a personal statement, and reference letters. International candidates may need apostilled or notarised translations — start early to avoid deadline pressure.
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4
Submit via the institution
Western Washington University processes applications through www.wwu.edu. Create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents. Note application deadlines, which vary by intake and programme.
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5
Get in touch with admissions
Confirm receipt of your application with the admissions office and keep an eye on your portal for status changes. You can reach the institution by email at [email protected] or by phone at +1 (360) 650 3000. Quick responses to any follow-up requests keep your application moving smoothly through the review process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Western Washington University
Quick answers to common questions about Western Washington University.
How old is Western Washington University?
The institution opened in 1893 (approximately 133 years ago).
Where can I find Western Washington University?
The institution is located in Bellingham, United States.
What is Western Washington University's control type?
It is a public higher-education institution.
How many students does Western Washington University have?
The institution has a student body of 13,544.
Where does Western Washington University stand in university rankings?
Western Washington University holds rank QS 2025 #1401-1503.
What is Western Washington University's academic structure?
Western Washington University is organised into 8 academic units across its disciplines.
Is Western Washington University officially recognised?
Western Washington University is accredited by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
How do I find Western Washington University online?
You can find Western Washington University online at www.wwu.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Some the United States systems publish government rating frameworks (NIRF, QS Stars, regulatory grading) alongside rankings. These add independent signals beyond commercial ranking tables.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
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Faculties at nearby universities
Also in Bellingham: universities located close to Western Washington University.
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