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 in Bellingham: Experience a public university with a pioneering spirit.
Nestled in the picturesque city of Bellingham, Washington, Western Washington University (WWU) is a dynamic public institution that invites students to "Make Waves" through its innovative programs and vibrant community. As the northernmost university in the contiguous United States, WWU offers a unique learning environment, combining the charm of a small city campus with a broad range of academic pursuits. Students here are not just learners; they're active participants in a tradition of forward-thinking education, preparing for impactful careers and lives.
WWU's rich history began in 1886 as the Northwest Normal School, a teachers' school, evolving through several name changes before becoming Western Washington University in 1977. The 1960s marked a period of explosive growth and academic innovation, with enrollment soaring and the establishment of groundbreaking institutions like the Fairhaven College of Interdisciplinary Studies, known for its non-traditional education methods. This pioneering spirit continued with the founding of the College of the Environment in 1969, the nation's first dedicated environmental science college, setting a precedent for interdisciplinary and relevant studies.
Today, WWU continues its commitment to academic excellence across its diverse colleges, including the College of Humanities & Social Sciences, College of Science & Engineering, College of Fine and Performing Arts, and the College of Business and Economics. With a robust student body of nearly 15,000, the university fosters a lively student experience, supported by a 215-acre main campus and additional academic locations. Its athletic teams, the Vikings, proudly compete in NCAA Division II, embodying the spirit of competition and community that defines Western Washington University.
Key Highlights
- ✦"Make Waves" is the official motto, reflecting a spirit of innovation and impact.
- ✦A public university with a student population of approximately 14,747.
- ✦Home to the nation's first dedicated environmental science college, established in 1969.
- ✦Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
- ✦Its athletic teams, the Vikings, compete in NCAA Division II.
- ✦Experienced rapid growth in the 1960s, expanding from 3,000 to over 10,000 students.
- ✦Operates its main campus on 215 acres in Bellingham, Washington, plus additional academic locations.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
6 notable schools within Western Washington University
Fairhaven College of Interdisciplinary Studies
Founded in 1967, known for its non-traditional education methods.
College of the Environment
Founded in 1969, 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
Formed in 2003 from the division of the College of Arts and Sciences.
College of Science & Engineering
Formed in 2003 from the division of the College of Arts and Sciences.
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