Colleges and universities in Washington facts for kids

University of Washington

Have you ever wondered what happens after high school? Many students choose to go to a college or university. These are places where you can learn more about subjects you love. You can also train for a specific job. Washington State has many great schools to choose from. Some are big universities, and others are smaller community colleges. Let's explore some of the colleges and universities in Washington.

Exploring Colleges in Washington

Colleges and universities offer many different programs. You can study anything from science to art. They help students get ready for their future careers. These schools are often called "institutions of higher education." They are a big part of learning and growing up.

Public Colleges and Universities

Public colleges and universities get money from the state government. This often means they cost less for students who live in Washington. They are open to many students. These schools play a big role in educating people across the state.

Some of the largest public universities in Washington include:

• University of Washington: This is a very well-known university. It has a main campus in Seattle. It also has campuses in Bothell and Tacoma. Students can study almost anything here.
• Washington State University: Often called WSU, this university is famous for its research. Its main campus is in Pullman. It also has campuses in Tri-Cities and Vancouver.
• Eastern Washington University: Located in Cheney, this university offers many different programs.
• Central Washington University: Found in Ellensburg, this school is known for its teaching programs.
• Western Washington University: This university is in Bellingham. It is known for its beautiful location and strong academic programs.

What are Community Colleges?

Community colleges are also public schools. They offer two-year programs. These programs can lead to an associate's degree. You can also take classes to transfer to a four-year university. They are a great way to start your college journey. They often have smaller classes and are closer to home.

Some community colleges in Washington include:

• Bellevue College
• Clark College
• Everett Community College
• Olympic College
• Seattle Community College District (which includes North Seattle, Seattle Central, and South Seattle colleges)
• Tacoma Community College

Private Colleges and Universities

Private colleges and universities do not get money from the state. They are funded by student tuition and donations. This means they often cost more than public schools. However, they can offer unique programs or a specific learning environment.

Here are some well-known private schools in Washington:

• Gonzaga University: This university is in Spokane. It is known for its strong academic programs and sports teams.
• Pacific Lutheran University: Located in Tacoma, this school has a strong focus on liberal arts.
• Seattle Pacific University: This university is in Seattle. It offers many different fields of study.
• Seattle University: Also in Seattle, this university is known for its law and business schools.
• University of Puget Sound: This school is in Tacoma. It is a smaller liberal arts college.
• Whitman College: Located in Walla Walla, this college is known for its strong academics.
• Whitworth University: This university is also in Spokane. It offers a wide range of programs.

These are just some of the many great colleges and universities in Washington. Each one offers different opportunities for learning and growth. Choosing a college is a big decision. It is exciting to think about all the possibilities!