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Washington & Jefferson College

Washington, PA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Juncta Juvant("Together We Thrive")

1781
Founded
Private liberal arts college
Type
60 acres
Campus
1,154
Total Students
1,149
Undergrad
$123M
Endowment
(2020)
$28K
Tuition (In-State)
$28K
Tuition (Out-State)
$26K
Avg Net Price
82%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Graduation Rate
6-year
82%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Washington & Jefferson College

Washington & Jefferson College: Where centuries of history foster a thriving liberal arts community.

Washington & Jefferson College, affectionately known as W&J, stands as a testament to enduring liberal arts education. Founded in 1781, its roots trace back to three frontier clergymen and their log cabin colleges, eventually leading to the merger of two rival institutions, Washington College and Jefferson College, in 1865. This rich, almost 250-year history underpins a dynamic learning environment dedicated to developing well-rounded individuals prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world.

At W&J, students dive into a comprehensive liberal arts curriculum, complemented by innovative programs like Entrepreneurial Studies, the Freshman Forum, and diverse international education opportunities. The college continually invests in its academic strengths, particularly evident in the expansion of its science department and the construction of modern facilities like the Swanson Science Center. This commitment ensures students are equipped with both classical knowledge and cutting-edge skills for the future, empowered by dedicated faculty and a personalized learning approach.

Life at W&J is characterized by a close-knit, supportive community. Nearly all of the college's 1,149 undergraduates live on its picturesque 60-acre campus in Washington, Pennsylvania, fostering strong bonds and a vibrant residential experience. A significant portion of students are also active in Greek life, adding another layer to the collegiate experience. Beyond academics, the college boasts a competitive NCAA Division III athletic program, allowing students to thrive both in and out of the classroom, living up to its motto, "Juncta Juvant" – "Together We Thrive."

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1781, boasting over 240 years of educational heritage.
  • "Juncta Juvant" ("Together We Thrive") is the inspiring college motto.
  • A private liberal arts college with an endowment of $122.9 million (2020).
  • A vibrant community of 1,149 undergraduates (Fall 2022).
  • Nearly all students live on the historic 60-acre campus, with roughly one-third engaged in Greek life.
  • Competes in NCAA Division III athletics.
  • Distinguished by its origin from the 1865 merger of two rival colleges.

Timeline

1780
John McMillan establishes one of the first log cabin colleges in Chartiers.
1781
Thaddeus Dod establishes a log cabin college in Lower Ten Mile.
1787
Washington Academy, a precursor to Washington College, is chartered.
1794
Canonsburg Academy, a precursor to Jefferson College, is chartered.
1802
Jefferson College receives its charter.
1865
Washington College and Jefferson College merge to form Washington & Jefferson College.
1970
Trustees authorize the admission of women as undergraduate students.
1998
The Burnett Center is constructed, named after long-serving president Howard J. Burnett.
2004
Tori Haring-Smith becomes the first woman to serve as president.
2024
Elizabeth MacLeod Walls begins tenure as the 14th president.
🏛️
245 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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