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Washington State University

Pullman, WA

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

1890
Founded
Public land-grant research university
Type
21,583
Total Students
26,062
Undergrad
4,262
Graduate
$800M
Endowment
(2025)
$13K
Tuition (In-State)
$29K
Tuition (Out-State)
$14K
Avg Net Price
85%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Graduation Rate
6-year
80%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

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

About Washington State University

Innovating across Washington as a leading land-grant research university.

Welcome to Washington State University, affectionately known as Wazzu! Nestled within the picturesque rolling hills of the Palouse in rural eastern Washington, WSU is a vibrant public land-grant research university with deep roots and a forward-thinking vision. Beyond its iconic Pullman campus, characterized by open spaces and classic red brick architecture, WSU extends its reach across the state with campuses in Spokane, Tri-Cities, Vancouver, and Everett, alongside a robust Global Campus for online learning.

Founded in 1890 as the Agricultural College, Experiment Station and School of Science, WSU proudly stands as one of the American West's oldest land-grant institutions. Its establishment was a direct result of the Morrill and Hatch Acts, designed to foster agricultural and mechanical arts, empowering the industrial classes. Over the decades, WSU evolved, embracing a broader mission that included general arts and sciences. Visionary leaders like President Enoch Albert Bryan, often regarded as the university's true founder, ensured a curriculum that balanced practical skills with a strong liberal arts foundation, from chemistry and engineering to English literature and music.

Today, Washington State University is recognized among 'R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity,' a testament to its significant contributions to discovery and innovation. With a total student body exceeding 31,000 across all its campuses, WSU is the second largest institution of higher education in Washington state. Students at WSU, the proud Cougars, engage in a dynamic academic and social environment, benefiting from a diverse range of programs and a strong sense of community. The university's crimson and gray colors symbolize a rich history and a bright future, preparing graduates to make a tangible impact in their chosen fields.

Key Highlights

  • Classified as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity" for its extensive research contributions.
  • One of the oldest public land-grant research universities in the American West, founded in 1890.
  • Total student enrollment of over 31,471, making it the second-largest institution of higher education in Washington state.
  • Comprehensive multi-campus system including Pullman, Spokane, Tri-Cities, Vancouver, Everett, and a Global Campus.
  • Endowment of $0.8 billion supporting its extensive academic and research endeavors.
  • Home to the proud Cougars, competing in NCAA Division I, with school colors crimson and gray.

Timeline

1862
Morrill Act signed, enabling creation of land-grant colleges.
1887
Hatch Act provided federal funds for agricultural experiment stations.
1890
Founded as the Agricultural College, Experiment Station and School of Science of the State of Washington.
1892
Opened to 59 students in Pullman, offering agriculture, engineering, and domestic science.
1893
Enoch Albert Bryan appointed as influential President.
1897
First graduating class of seven men and women.
1905
School name officially changed to "State College of Washington."
1959
Name officially changed to Washington State University.
1989
Campuses in Spokane, Tri-Cities, and Vancouver founded.
2012
Internet-based Global Campus launched.
2015
Sixth campus opened at WSU Everett.
🏛️
136 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Washington State University

🏫

School of Music

Established in 1905, emphasizing the importance of music and art in the curriculum.

Leadership

T. Chris Riley-Tillman
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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