Western Washington University
Bellingham, WA
Quick Facts
“"Make Waves"”
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Western Washington University
Make Waves: Experience innovation and nature at the Pacific Northwest's northernmost public university.
Western Washington University (WWU) invites you to discover a vibrant academic community nestled in Bellingham, Washington. As the northernmost university in the contiguous United States, WWU has been a beacon of learning since 1893, evolving from a teaching school to a comprehensive public university dedicated to its motto, "Make Waves." Students thrive in an environment that blends rigorous academics with unparalleled natural beauty, fostering a spirit of innovation and engagement.
WWU's history is marked by a commitment to progressive education. Originally founded as a normal school for teachers, it experienced rapid growth and transformation in the 1960s, pioneering new academic models. This era saw the establishment of the Fairhaven College of Interdisciplinary Studies in 1967, which became a model for non-traditional education, and the nation's first dedicated environmental science college, the College of the Environment, in 1969. These initiatives underscore Western's enduring legacy of forward-thinking programs.
Today, WWU offers a wide array of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across its diverse colleges, including the College of Business and Economics, the College of Fine and Performing Arts, and the Colleges of Humanities & Social Sciences and Science & Engineering. With a student body of nearly 15,000, students benefit from a rich academic landscape and a close-knit community. The university's strong academic offerings, combined with its stunning location and commitment to student success, make it an ideal choice for those looking to make a meaningful impact.
Beyond academics, the student experience at Western Washington University is enriched by its setting in Bellingham, a dynamic small city. Home to the WWU Vikings, who compete in NCAA Division II, school spirit runs deep. Whether you're drawn to cutting-edge research, hands-on environmental studies, or a collaborative learning environment, WWU provides the resources and support for students to explore their passions and truly "Make Waves" in their fields and communities.
Key Highlights
- ✦Northernmost university in the contiguous United States, located in scenic Bellingham, Washington.
- ✦Founded in 1893, Western Washington University is a public institution with a student body of 14,747.
- ✦Home to the nation's first dedicated environmental science college, established in 1969.
- ✦Pioneered interdisciplinary education with the founding of Fairhaven College in 1967, serving as a model for other institutions.
- ✦University motto is "Make Waves," reflecting its commitment to innovation and impact.
- ✦Offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across a wide range of disciplines.
- ✦Athletic teams, known as the Vikings, compete in NCAA Division II.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
6 notable schools within Western Washington University
Fairhaven College of Interdisciplinary Studies
Founded in 1967, offering non-traditional education methods that served as a model for other institutions.
College of the Environment
Established in 1969, it was the nation's first dedicated environmental science college.
College of Fine and Performing Arts
Formed in 1975 from several art departments.
College of Business and Economics
Established in 1976.
College of Humanities & Social Sciences
Founded in 2003 from the division of the College of Arts and Sciences.
College of Science & Engineering
Founded in 2003 from the division of the College of Arts and Sciences.
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