T H E PAT H F O R W A R D B E G I N S W I T H O N E S T E P.
TRANSFER GUIDE
EXPERIENCE WESTERN Choose any program at Western and you’ll find excellence in academic offerings, faculty, student experience, and student outcomes. A welcoming campus community, accessible professors, a strong sense of belonging, and an unbelievable location distinguish us from universities across the country. Students describe Western as the perfect size: not too big, and not too small. With a focus on undergraduates, an average class size of 28, and seven distinct colleges, you will have the opportunity to learn and conduct research alongside some of the finest faculty in the nation on a scale that promotes interaction, engagement, and conversation.
student-to-faculty ratio
number of students
undergraduate students
academic programs
18:1 15,060
96% 160+
classes taught by faculty, not graduate assistants
faculty who hold the highest degrees in their fields
99% 89%
The top public, master’sgranting university in the Pacific Northwest for 18 straight years — U.S. News & World Report
Sculpture on Cover: Stadium Piece, 1979-80 © Bruce Nauman
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COL L EGE OF H U MA N I TI ES AND SOCIA L SCIEN CES Anthropology, BA *+ Anthropology/Biology, BA Anthropology/Social Studies, BA Archaeology, BA Behavioral Neuroscience, BS Biocultural Anthropology, BA Canadian-American Studies, BA + Chinese Language and Culture, BA *+ Communication Sciences and Disorders, BA + Communication Studies, BA *+ Community Health, BS East Asian Studies, BA + English *+ Creative Writing, BA + Literature, BA French, BA *+ German, BA *+ History History, BA *+ History/Social Studies, BA Humanities *+ History of Culture, BA Religion and Culture, BA + Journalism News/Editorial, BA + Public Relations, BA + Visual Journalism, BA Kinesiology Health and Fitness Specialist, BS * Movement Studies, BS Pre-Health Care Professions, BS Pre-Physical Therapy, BS Sport Psychology, BS+
Linguistics, BA + Multidisciplinary Studies, BA Philosophy, BA + Physical Education & Health P-12, BAE Political Science, BA + Political Science/Social Studies, BA * Psychology, BS *+ Recreation, BA Sociology, BA, BS *+ Sociology/Social Studies, BA + Spanish, BA *+ Student/Faculty Designed, BA, BS
COLLEG E O F S CI E N C E A N D ENGIN E E R I N G Biology, BA, BS *+ Biology/Anthropology, BS Biology/Mathematics, BS Biology – Secondary Teaching, BS Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, BS Marine Biology, BS Molecular and Cell Biology, BS Chemistry, BA, BS *+ Biochemistry, BS Computer Science, BS + Computer and Information Systems Security, BS Engineering & Design Electrical Engineering – Electronics, BS Electrical Engineering – Energy, BS Industrial Design, BS Industrial Technology – Vehicle Design, BS + Manufacturing Engineering, BS + Plastics and Composites Engineering, BS Geology, BA, BS *+ Geophysics, BS Mathematics, BA, BS *+ Applied Mathematics, BS Mathematics/Computer Science, BS Physics and Astronomy *+ Physics, BS + Science Education, BAE *
C OL L E GE OF B U SIN ESS A N D E C ON O MICS
FA IRH AV EN COL L EGE O F IN TERDISCIPL IN A RY STUDI ES
Accounting, BA + Business Administration + Business and Sustainability, BA + Finance, BA International Business, BA + Management, BA Management Information Systems, BA Marketing, BA Operations Management, BA Economics, BA + Economics/Accounting, BA Economics/Environmental Studies, BA Economics/Mathematics, BA Economics/Political Science, BA Economics/Social Studies, BA Financial Economics, BA Politics/Philosophy/ Economics, BA Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management, BS +
With an emphasis on interactive learning and social justice, Fairhaven College is Western’s small liberal arts college. Working closely with faculty advisors, Fairhaven students design an interdisciplinary program of study tailored to their interests and goals. Experiential learning, self-direction, strong advising, and student-faculty collaboration are hallmarks of a Fairhaven education.
WOOD RIN G COL L EGE OF E D U C ATION Early Childhood Education, BAE * Elementary Education Professional Program * Exceptionality & Disability, BAE Human Services, BA Language, Literacy and Cultural Studies, BAE Nursing (RN to BSN), BSN Secondary Education Professional Program Special Education, BAE *
C OL L E GE OF FIN E A N D P E R F O R MIN G A RTS Art * Art History, BA + Art Studio, BA, BFA * Dance, BA *+ Design, BA, BFA + Music, BA, BMus *+ Music Composition, BMus Music Education, P-12, BMus Music History and Literature, BMus Music Performance, BMus Theatre, BA *+
HU X L E Y COL L EGE OF TH E E N V IR O N MEN T Environmental Science, BS + Freshwater Ecology, BS Marine Ecology, BS Terrestrial Ecology, BS Toxicology, BS Environmental Studies, BA *+ Environmental Education, BA Environmental Policy, BA + Geography, BA *+ Geography/Social Studies, BA Urban Planning and Sustainable Development, BA + Student/Faculty Designed, BA, BS
Fairhaven Interdisciplinary Concentration, BA, BAE Law, Diversity and Justice Concentration, BA +
OTH ER IN TERDISCIPL INARY STU DIES American Cultural Studies, BA + Energy Policy and Management, BA + International Studies Leadership Studies
PRE- PROFESSION A L PATHWAY S Pre-Chiropractic Pre-Dentistry Pre-Law Pre-Medicine Pre-Nursing Pre-Nutrition Pre-Occupational Therapy Pre-Optometry Pre-Pharmacy Pre-Physical Therapy Pre-Physician Assistant Pre-Veterinary
OTH ER A CA DEMIC OPTI O NS Distinguished Scholar Programs Freshman Interest Groups (FIGs) Honors Program International Programs and Exchange Study Abroad
+ minor offered (additional minors in a range of disciplines are also available) * related teaching endorsement offered (BA) Bachelor of Arts degree (BS) Bachelor of Science degree (BAE) Bachelor of Arts, Education degree (BMus) Bachelor of Music degree (BFA) Bachelor of Fine Arts (BSN) Bachelor of Science in Nursing This list of academic programs is subject to change.
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C O LLE G E OF HU M A N IT IES A N D SOCIA L SCIE NC ES
With a broad set of options, distinctive programs, student-centered classes, and a collaborative approach to teaching and learning, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences is ideal for students looking to explore issues of life, culture and society. Students learn to be innovative critical thinkers and ethical problem solvers as they pursue a variety of careers and graduate studies, including social media, law, publishing, health promotion, counseling, government, social work, public relations, management, marketing, and more.
Adolpho Dominquez, University Place, WA Communication Sciences and Disorders In his studies, Adolpho examined real case files and created hypothetical treatment goals for clients. When he graduated in 2015, Adolpho headed to Guatemala as a Peace Corps volunteer, where he will develop health education curriculum for a school district. He will also put his Communication Sciences and Disorders education to work in the schools — Adolpho is taking audiometric testing equipment with him to conduct hearing screenings.
“The faculty drive the students to be intuitive advocates for clients and life-long learners, and because of them I love what I’m studying.”
>> Conduct and present groundbreaking research in human behavior and communication
chss.wwu.edu <<
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With seven on-campus newspapers, magazines and journals to write for, expect to get real experience writing, reporting and editing for award-winning publications
Six CHSS graduates won 2013-2014 Fulbright Fellowships that took them to Brazil, Germany, Austria, Mexico and Romania
C O LLE G E O F SCIE N CE A N D E NG I N E E R IN G With state of the art lab equipment, exciting fieldwork, and meaningful research projects, studying science, mathematics or engineering at Western can be a powerful, transformative experience. Our unique focus on undergraduates is especially effective as we prepare students for research-intensive fields. Professors participate directly in the classroom and laboratory instruction of Western students. Active learning and close working relationships with faculty mentors will give you a serious advantage in applying to and preparing for graduate school, and as you enter the workforce.
Marshall Powell, Federal Way, WA Computer Science Marshall gets to put his computer science skills to work, add to his resume, and is getting paid to do it as the web developer for Western’s New Student Services/Family Outreach office. Away from the screen, Marshall is an avid musician. In fact one big draw for him to Western was a favorite band of his, Death Cab for Cutie, whose members met on campus.
“Programming is an outlet for creativity, believe it or not. Once you get the basics down, the possibilities are endless as far as what you can accomplish with just yourself, a laptop, and some direction.”
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Explore natural marine habitat, sophisticated labs, and a fleet of research vessels at our 78-acre off-campus coastal research facility
With accelerated degree programs in Computer Science and Mathematics you can gain a master’s degree with an additional year of study
Curriculums for Electrical, Manufacturing, and Plastics and Composites engineering programs are designed with input from industrial advisory committees to prepare students for professional positions
>> cse.wwu.edu
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COLLE GE OF BU SINES S AND E CON OMICS Prepare to run your own business, become a player in global economic markets, or discover how marketing strategies can influence more than just sales. The College of Business and Economics is committed to teaching environmentally sensitive and ethically strong business practices. Working in teams on actual business problems, students learn the importance of collaboration, creative problem solving, and community. Students get to know their professors as teachers, career advisors, mentors and friends, developing lifelong advocates in the business world. A Western business degree can open countless doors for the future.
Hannah Ricker, Vancouver, WA Business Administration — Marketing Focus Hannah received Google Analytics, Hubspot Inbound Marketing, and Hootsuite certifications, helped a local clothing boutique develop a website, and maintained a digital marketing blog — all before graduating from Western. She also had a job lined up before graduating — as a student, Hannah was connected with an industry professional who became a mentor and ultimately hired her as a marketing assistant.
“It amazes me how much the faculty care about providing the best education for their students, and the students form an inclusive environment where people are free to express themselves and find their purpose.”
>> With an additional year of study, you can earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA)
cbe.wwu.edu <<
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Western has 13 active student clubs and associations that represent businessrelated interests
Western students were finalists at the 2015 Collegiate Regional DECA conference and participated in the national championship
Participate in local and international internships — Western students get put to work by Boeing, Costco, Microsoft, REI, Starbucks, Solomon Smith Barney and many others, and it’s not uncommon for these internships to turn into job offers
W OOD R I NG C O LLE GE O F E D U C ATI O N Woodring is widely recognized as a premier teacher education preparation college in the Northwest. Woodring offers undergraduate programs in teaching, human services, and nursing. Faculty have a valuable mix of field and academic experience, providing students with a strong theoretical background and practical professional strategies. Students get extensive field experiences in school classrooms, community agencies, and healthrelated organizations, working with exemplary professionals. The teaching programs are the longestrunning degree and professional offerings at Western, the Human Services program is the only one of its kind in the state, and the Registered Nurse-to-Bachelor of Science of Nursing program provides a critical degree option in the field.
Tina Nguyen, Bellingham, WA Early Childhood Education Tina spent last spring as a part-time student teacher in a class of 25 kindergarteners and will begin a full-time internship in the fall. Working as a student teacher, Tina got to bring her own style of teaching into the classroom and work directly with students alongside an experienced teacher-mentor. When she graduates from Woodring, Tina will have a Bachelor of Arts in Education degree, a P-3 Teaching Certificate, and hands-on teaching experience.
“Taking what I’ve learned through Woodring and through this internship, I know I will be prepared for my full-time student teaching internship and any future teaching endeavors that come my way!”
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Western grads are known for teaching excellence, and are rated highly by school administrators
Western’s innovative Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education program is on the leading-edge of science teacher education
Outreach programs provide opportunities for Western students to mentor and encourage students from traditionally underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue higher education — programs include Compass2Campus, one of the largest youth-mentoring initiatives in the country
Pursue a minor in Education and Social Justice or Bilingual Education, or a certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
>> wce.wwu.edu
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C OLLE G E OF FIN E AND P E RFORM IN G ART S
Dancers, musicians, artists, designers and actors, prepare to thrive. Western offers students of the arts a uniquely focused and dynamically expressive environment in which to discover and exhibit their skills and talents. Learn from the best and challenge yourself at national competitions and regional exhibitions. Faculty and instructors are active and accomplished performers, artists, actors, historians, composers, designers and directors themselves, with vast knowledge of the current arts world.
Brynn Hofer, Spokane, WA Dance Brynn has danced in more than 20 productions at Western, including Cabaret and the BFA Capstone Performance, the latter of which she also served as a choreographer. She also wrote and received a grant that fully funded research in biomechanics examining how dancers learn new movement styles. Outside of the classroom, she has spent the last three years teaching dance at a Bellingham studio. When she graduated in 2015, Brynn had loads of real dance experience, and had a job lined up with a professional dance company in Portland, Oregon.
“The Dance faculty give so much of themselves to the dancers. They have such an innate ability to help their students that is quite inspiring — I hope to be that way with my students one day.”
>> Western has three oncampus art galleries which feature works by world-famous contemporary artists including Noguchi, Calder, Judd, and Sera
cfpa.wwu.edu <<
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There are nearly 300 annual performances and exhibits of student work at Western each year
Guest artists, teachers, and speakers are drawn from nearby world-class cities of Seattle and Vancouver, B.C.
Bellingham, Washington has one of the highest per capita concentrations of working artists anywhere in the country
HUX LE Y C O L L E GE O F T HE E NV I R O N M E N T In 1969, Huxley became one of the first environmental colleges in the nation. More than 45 years later, Huxley continues to enjoy a reputation as a premier institution for the education of future environmental professionals capable of addressing real-world problems. Huxley’s distinctive interdisciplinary curriculum grants degrees in Environmental Studies and Environmental Science, and offers combined majors in environmental education, business and sustainability, and environmental economics. Graduates are respected leaders in a wide variety of fields in both the public and private sectors, including conservation, environmental education, law, wildlife biology, renewable energy innovation, and urban planning.
Roby Ventres-Pake, Portland, OR Environmental Science As part of an independent study, Roby took a 2,000-kilometer bicycle ride through Central America studying neotropical flora along the way. He worked closely with his professor to create an independent study proposal, built a bicycle in El Salvador, and then collected, researched, and profiled dozens of plants while riding to Panama.
“I love that Environmental Science is so tangible. It means I
get to be outside, explore, and get dirty while doing good work.”
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Internships and learning experiences that take place outside the classroom are an essential part of the Huxley curriculum
Western’s setting between the mountains and the bay offers unique opportunities for research and fieldwork
Help design the future at Western’s Institute for Energy Studies, an innovative new organization designed to meet the needs of a rapidly-expanding green energy economy
The Planet, an awardwinning environmental magazine, is the only undergraduate environmental journalism magazine in the nation
>> huxley.wwu.edu
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FA IRH AV E N COLLE GE O F I N T E R DISCIP LIN A RY STU D IES Fairhaven was one of the earliest interdisciplinary colleges in the nation, and truly is a unique place: a 425-student college offering seminar classes of 15 to 20 students, access to all the resources of a mid-sized public university, and a broad focus on social justice and community. Students take an uncommon level of responsibility for their education while working closely with faculty mentors. They can design their own degree or pursue any major offered by Western. The self-designed major, or interdisciplinary concentration, allows students to develop a program of study that meets their specific academic goals using classes and expertise from a number of departments across campus.
Barite Dawud, Seattle, WA Minority Health in the U.S. Barite is studying health disparities among historically underserved populations in the United States and wants to use her education to help minority populations understand the various healthcare options available to them. Through her studies, she has presented on topics that include the academic, physical and emotional effect of racism on college students. Outside of the classroom, Barite is on the board of the African Caribbean Club and works for the Office of Admissions, where she manages group visits on campus.
“Fairhaven has allowed me to independently build a major that incorporates the subjects I’m most interested in.”
>> Fairhaven alumni are leaders in a range of fields, including social entrepreneurship, law, social justice education, and sustainability
wwu.edu/fairhaven <<
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The student-run Outback Farm offers hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture, ethnobotany and environmental studies
Two Fairhaven students annually receive a $15,000 Adventure Learning Grant that allows them to travel abroad for 10 months
Examples of recent student-designed concentrations include: Medicine and Social Justice; Law, Diversity, and Justice: Sustainable Food Ecosystems; International Conflict and Social Justice: Methods in Peacemaking; and Youth Advocacy: Social Activism through Expressive Arts
O PEN ING D O O RS WITH EX T E N D E D E DU CATION Extended Education provides learning opportunities for students of all ages through a unique collaboration with Western’s colleges, departments and the community, linking university resources with educational needs. • Complete your educational goals through evening or distance education options • Accelerate your career with degree and certificate programs • Gain a hands-on application of knowledge through professional development courses • Explore new or current interests with a variety of lifelong learning opportunities
DISCOVER HOW CLOSE WE ARE...
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Western is conveniently located in eight locations
BELLINGHAM Western offers flexible bachelor’s and master’s degree options allowing for balance between personal and educational pursuits
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Anacortes Everett
Port Angeles Poulsbo
Summer is an open quarter — formal admission into Western is not required — and with 500+ courses offered on campus, online and abroad, it’s a great opportunity to get ahead
Seattle
Bremerton
Tacoma
WesternOnline delivers quality online courses and programs for students in Washington state and across the globe
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wwu.edu/ee 5
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DISCOVER BELLINGHAM Live and learn in a setting nationally recognized for its breathtaking natural beauty and endless outdoor possibilities. With a vibrant downtown, thriving arts and music scenes, and an easy drive to Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., Bellingham is a place students love to call home. Vancouver, BC
BELLINGHAM Seattle Tacoma Olympia
Portland, OR Pop. of Bellingham: 82,000
Mount Baker receives 641 inches of annual snowfall, the most of any ski area in the world
Outside and National Geographic Adventure magazines ranked Bellingham among the top communities in the country for outdoor lovers 11
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Eugene, OR
Spokane
Downtown Bellingham (0.8 miles) Boulevard Park (1.1 miles) Bellingham Marina (2.7 miles) Galbraith Mountain (3.4 miles) Lake Whatcom (3.8 miles)
COME SEE FOR YOURSELF!
>> admissions.wwu.edu/visit Larrabee State Park (7.8 miles) San Juan Ferry Terminal (40 miles) Missoula, MT
Mount Baker Ski Area (52 miles)
Vancouver, British Columbia (55 miles)
Deception Pass State Park (55 miles)
Downtown Seattle, WA (90 miles) Olympic National Forest (202 miles)
WESTERN WESTERN WASHINGTON WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY | |
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GET INVOLVED Be prepared for more than an exceptional classroom experience. Here, students learn by doing. Become a leader for social change or sustainability, volunteer, embrace your culture, join a club, or head outdoors or downtown to balance your school work with some hardearned fun.
Alex Bain, Lynnwood, WA Recreation Alex’s involvement in clubs and her major allow her to help others. Her major in Community Recreation opened doors to working with local youth and senior citizens. As a member of the Black Student Union — part of the Ethnic Student Center — Alex was able to help students making the transition from high school to college.
“Participating in clubs at Western is how I found my footing for everything I do and am involved in now. I found friendship, mentors, a job, and my community.”
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Western was ranked as one of the top 10 colleges with the best perks by Huffington Post Teen, thanks to its student-operated Outdoor Center
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FIND YOUR VOICE Try new things, make new friends, and grow as a leader. Western’s studentcreated clubs and organizations cover just about every interest, including student government, academics, campus radio, a’cappella, Appreciate Beyoncé and Quidditch. Can’t find your club? Start your own with help from the Associated Students! >>
as.wwu.edu
student-run clubs and organizations
renewable energy purchases thanks to studentled initiative
hours students spent doing community service and volunteer work last year
acres of forest and trails adjacent to campus for you to explore
200+ 100%
82,701 180
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GET OUT THERE Western is buzzing with activity every day, and is a great place to live and play. Hear live music in our campus coffeehouse, join the crowd at a Viking basketball game, enjoy exhibits and performances of student work, get inspired by insightful speakers, or hang out with friends on the lawn.
Stay active by heading to
Western’s rec center
to scale the rock climbing wall or hit the track, visit the Outdoor Center for equipment rentals and excursions, take a walk in the woods between classes, or head to Western’s Lakewood property for student-only boat rentals Whether you’re an aspiring NCAA Division II athlete, want to try out a club or intramural sport, or prefer cheering from the bleachers, there are plenty of ways to show your Viking pride — NCAA Division II sports include basketball, cheerleading, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, track & field, women’s rowing, and women’s volleyball 15
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LEARN WITHOUT LIMITS Take your learning to a new level. Apply the theories you’ve gained in the classroom to the real world — from studying abroad and immersing yourself in another language, to internships that build on your education, to cutting-edge research. At Western you’ll have a chance to get your feet wet and your hands dirty while adding to your portfolio and resume.
GO AROUND THE GLOBE Get ready to see the world while learning another language and earning credit toward your degree. Quarter, semester, summer and yearlong study abroad programs are offered in over 90 countries around the globe. Western is part of Generation Study Abroad, a 5-year initiative to double the number of U.S. students studying abroad by the end of the decade.
DO GROUNDBREAKING RESEARCH Our professors are extensively engaged in innovative research, but they primarily choose Western for the opportunity to teach you, the undergraduate. That means you get to work directly with professors on cutting-edge projects. Current research includes: neurobiology of drug and food addiction, identifying causes of Sea Star Wasting Syndrome, and development of the first completely transparent solar window. WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
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GET NOTICED Western has earned a reputation for educating creative, dynamic professionals who go on to make an impact in their businesses and the world. Employers actively recruit Western graduates because our alumni are unusually innovative, flexible, and forward thinking. With all of the hands-on learning you can engage in at Western, you will have the kind of experience that makes a strong first, and lasting, impression.
Jesse Moore, Lynnwood, WA ‘05, Political Science White House Associate Director of Public Engagement Eight years ago, Jesse used up some vacation time from his job in Western’s Office of Admissions to work for Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign for president. That work led him all the way to the White House, where he has worked as a speechwriter and currently leads outreach efforts for the My Brother’s Keeper initiative and serves as President Obama’s chief liaison to leaders in the entertainment industry and faith communities.
>> “Both within the classroom and in the student government and Ethnic Student Center, I learned to formulate plans and mobilize people to solve complex problems.
These are all skills that come into play every single day at work.” 17
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Stephanie Cheng, Palm Desert, CA Journalism — Public Relations Concentration As an intern in Western’s Office of University Communications, Stephanie has learned first-hand how to use social media as a marketing tool. She helped develop @ourwestern, a university-sponsored, studentrun Instagram account where students share their everyday experiences.
>> “I think the experience I’m gaining from my internship is invaluable and will definitely help me when I start to seek work in public relations. I have learned how larger companies and organizations run social media and just knowing the infrastructure helps a lot.”
59% percent of Western students surveyed reported that they graduated from Western with internship experience, and 47% of those internships were paid
Western students have interned for companies that include Microsoft, Boeing, Merrill Lynch, REI, Swedish Hospital and the Seattle Mariners — our free, online job and internship database includes accounts of more than 3,500 employers and 700+ career and internship opportunities
Western students with internship experience report an average starting salary $3,000 higher than those who graduate without it, and are more likely to be employed in their fields of study
NOTABLE ALUMNI T.J. Martin – 2012 Academy Award-winning director Bill Dietrich – Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Rick Anderson – CEO of Moss Adams, one of the nation’s largest accounting firms Karen Freeman – Retired VP of finance, Commercial Aviation Services, The Boeing Company Julie Larson-Green – Chief Experience Officer of Microsoft’s “My Life & Work” team Ben Gibbard, Chris Walla, Nicholas Harmer – Death Cab For Cutie band members Rob Angel – Creator of the game Pictionary Joyce Taylor – KING 5 News anchor Richard Barlow – Former CIA officer and nuclear weapons expert WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
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PAYING FOR COLLEGE In an increasingly competitive job market, earning a college degree is one of the smartest decisions you will make. At thousands less than private colleges and large research universities, you will find that Western is a great value and very competitive in terms of quality and cost.
2015-2016 ESTIMATED COST OF ATTENDANCE WASHINGTON RESIDENT TUITION
WASHINGTON RESIDENT TOTAL
$7,143
$23,236 HOUSING AND MEALS** FEES*
$1,467
$10,342
BOOKS AND SUPPLIES**
$1,116
PERSONAL EXPENSES**
$1,863
GETTING AROUND**
$1,305
NON-RESIDENT TUITION
NON-RESIDENT TOTAL
$19,495
$35,588 Costs represent annual expenses for full-time students (10-18 credits) * Fees include technology, health services, student recreation center, public transportation, etc. ** Not fixed costs; varies depending on student. Housing and meals expenses can be reduced with room type.
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One of the 100 best values in the nation among public colleges for combining educational excellence with economic value — Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine
Western is one of the best “Bang for the Buck” schools in the nation, helping students attain marketable degrees at affordable prices — Washington Monthly magazine
SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AID We’re dedicated to helping students save money, and we have a long tradition of making college affordable for families who cannot afford full tuition and expenses. We help eligible students pay for college through a variety of financial aid options: • Dedicated scholarships for transfer students, including Phi Theta Kappa members and other high-achieving students • More than $138 million in scholarships and financial aid, including more than $4 million in scholarships to new students annually • Need-based work-study (FAFSA dependent) and other onand off-campus employment opportunities
>> finaid.wwu.edu
WORKING ON CAMPUS If you’re thinking about getting a job while attending Western, consider working on campus. All students are invited to apply for campus jobs, where they are recognized as students first and employees second. Not only will you work in a convenient location, but you will have outstanding opportunities for professional development and community building. Need help finding work? Our Student Employment Center is a free resource and can provide you with job listings and volunteer opportunities.
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APPLYING TO WESTERN
To facilitate a smooth transition to Western, keep the following tips in mind.
You can further strengthen your application by ensuring your essay helps the Admissions Committee understand:
PREPARE FOR YOUR ACADEMIC MAJOR
• Your academic plan and experiences you’ve had that relate to your educational or career goals
Whenever possible, complete prerequisite courses before you transfer. Research the courses required for your academic area, talk with your transfer advisor, and utilize Western’s online resources for transfer students. Gaining related work or volunteer experience helps, too!
• Your potential contributions to the Western community such as unique perspective, cultural pride, special talent, leadership experience, etc.
DON’T WAIT TO TAKE MATH AND ENGLISH Strive to complete college-level mathematics and English Composition before submitting your application for admission to Western. Doing so strengthens your application by alleviating any concerns the Admissions Committee may have about your ability in these basic areas.
PLAN AHEAD With careful planning, you can often use the same course for multiple purposes. A course that meets a general education requirement at your current college, for example, might also serve as a necessary prerequisite for your intended major at Western.
Western Washington University (WWU), in compliance with applicable laws and in furtherance of its commitment to fostering an environment that welcomes and embraces diversity, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status or genetic information in its programs or activities, including employment, admissions, and educational programs. See WWU’s Policy on Providing Equal Opportunity and Nondiscrimination. Inquiries may be directed to the Vice Provost for Equal Opportunity & Employment Diversity, Title IX Coordinator, Equal Opportunity Office, Western Washington University, Old Main 345, MS 9021, 516 High Street, Bellingham, WA 98225; 360.650.3307 (voice) or 711 (Washington Relay); eoo@wwu.edu. WWU is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request an accommodation, please contact disAbility Resources for Students, Old Main 120, 360.650.3083 (voice) or 360.650.7175 (VP), drs@wwu.edu. One week advance notice appreciated. To request this document in an alternate format, please contact the Associate Director of Admissions, Office of Admissions, 360.650.3440, admit@wwu.edu.
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WRITE A HELPFUL ESSAY
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• Any circumstances that have helped or hindered your academic achievement and your strategies for succeeding at Western
APPLICATION DEADLINES Transfer/Post-baccalaureate Fall Quarter
March 1
Winter Quarter
October 1
Spring Quarter
January 15
Summer Quarter
March 1
Freshman/Running Start Fall Quarter
January 31
Winter Quarter
October 1
Spring Quarter
January 15
The following academic departments require additional information prior to admission to Western: Art, Design, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Fairhaven College of Interdisciplinary Studies, Human Services, Industrial Design, Music, Secondary Education, Special Education and Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL).
TRANSFER PLANNING RESOURCES
TRANSFERRING CREDIT YOU HAVE QUESTIONS. WE HAVE ANSWERS. Let’s face it, you’ve worked hard to earn college credits, so naturally you will want to know how previous courses will transfer toward your bachelor’s degree. While credit acceptance is governed by Western’s credit policies, the majority of students are pleased to learn that most, if not all, of their previous coursework transfers easily to Western. While Western provides transfer credit reports to all students who have earned college credit before they register for their first quarter, why wait for the good news? You can review the following online tools at any time to determine how many credits Western will accept in transfer, and, most importantly, how those credits will apply toward your degree requirements at Western. Western’s Transfer Course Equivalency Guide provides a detailed list of courses from community colleges and most public baccalaureate institutions in Washington state that Western accepts in transfer. If you have earned transfer credit from a college or university outside Washington state, reviewing the Transfer Course Equivalency Guide and Western’s Catalog for similar courses should give you a good idea of how your credits will transfer. We provide a comprehensive list of credits awarded for Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and Cambridge International exams on our website as well. While Western generally grants credit for baccalaureate-oriented courses completed at institutions of higher education accredited by the Regional Associations of Schools and Colleges, there are some restrictions. A summary of our transfer of credit policies is available at admissions.wwu.edu/transfer. If you have further questions after taking advantage of the resources listed above, please don’t hesitate to contact us at transfer.credit@wwu.edu or (360) 650-3440.
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APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION
admissions.wwu.edu/apply TRANSFER COURSE EQUIVALENCY GUIDE
admissions.wwu.edu/transfer/cc MAJOR GUIDES
wwu.edu/majors
TRANSFER RESOURCE CENTER
wwu.edu/vtc
TRANSFER STUDENT FAQS
admissions.wwu.edu/transfer/faqs UNIVERSITY CATALOG
catalog.wwu.edu WESTERN WESTERN WASHINGTON WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY | |
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Scan this code with your smart phone or tablet to embark on Westernâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Interactive Walking Tour!
WE WANT TO MEET YOU!
Office of Admissions Old Main 200, MS 9009 516 High Street, Bellingham, WA 98225
CAMPUS TOURS
OTHER OPPORTUNITIES
Take a 90-minute walking tour of campus led by a current student. Visit academic buildings, see inside a residence hall, and learn all about the exciting opportunities Western has to offer. Tours are offered twice every weekday and most Saturdays, with the exception of holidays and some additional dates.
A large open-house style event for prospective students occurs in the fall. Check our website for the most up-to-date information regarding special visit opportunities.
TRANSFER DISCOVERY DAYS
JOIN OUR MAILING LIST
A more comprehensive experience than our campus tour, our Transfer Discovery Days program includes an abbreviated tour, an admissions presentation where students and parents can ask questions of an admissions counselor, and a residence hall showcase. Students can also attend an open house to meet with various academic departments and explore student resources, tour the rec center, and more!
Receive admission tips and special invitations: admissions.wwu.edu/connect
OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS (360) 650-3440 admit@wwu.edu admissions.wwu.edu
MEET OUR COUNSELORS Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here to help and answer any questions you might have: admissions.wwu.edu/team
>> admissions.wwu.edu/visit