WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY ACTIVE MINDS CHANGING LIVES
2013-2014
Western at a glance student community total enrollment:
14,833
94% undergraduates 21% students of color 2,800 freshman average time to degree: 4.3 years
everything within reach
academics and beyond 160+ academic programs 200+ student clubs and organizations 21:1 student-to-faculty ratio 90% of western’s faculty hold the highest degree in their field 30 average class size $120 million in scholarships and financial aid awarded annually
0.8 miles to downtown bellingham 52 miles to mount baker ski area 55 miles to vancouver, bc 89 miles to seattle, wa 180 acres of forest and 6 miles of trails adjacent to campus
distinctly Western A STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE
GREEN THINKING
For 15 years in a row, Western has ranked #1 among public, master’s-granting universities in the Pacific Northwest (US News & World Report).
We’ve been dedicated to protecting the environment and building a green economy long since before it was the cool thing to do. With our commitment to purchase 100% renewable energy and reduce campus waste, student initiatives that have led to the installation of rooftop solar panels and water bottle refilling stations, and academic programs such as a major in Business and Sustainability and a minor in Energy Policy, environmental consciousness is woven into Western’s culture.
Choose any program at Western and you’ll find excellence in academic offerings, faculty, student experience, and student outcomes. A welcoming campus community, a strong sense of belonging, and an unbelievable location distinguish us from universities across the country.
NOT TOO BIG, NOT TOO SMALL With 15,000 students, more than 160 academic programs, and over 200 student clubs, Western combines the student focus and faculty access of a smaller college with the academic choice, campus resources, diversity, and leadership opportunities of a large university. We’re small enough that you won’t feel like just a number, and large enough for you to thrive.
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WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY VIEWBOOK
giovanni milan, human services
| Seattle, WA
“Attending Western has helped me make connections with incredible people, and establish a support system of friends and faculty that are there for me and believe in me. Knowing I am part of a community that both challenges me and lends me support is how I know I made the right choice in coming to Western.”
kimball gainor, communications & spanish
| Bellingham, WA
“Since I’m from Bellingham I never planned to go to Western, yet every time I visited campus or spoke with an admissions counselor, the fit was undeniable. I’ve been encouraged to dream big and work hard. Professors have become mentors, classmates have become friends, AS Clubs have become family, and I have felt the support of an entire university showing me that I am capable of turning my potential into reality.”
megan mcclintock, dance, french & russian
| Hilo, HI
“I chose Western because it offered really strong academics in the areas I was interested in and a beautiful new location to explore. I love the inclusive nature of the dance program and the personal attention I’ve been shown by faculty to further develop my strengths.”
greg phelps, management information systems
| Pullman, WA
“Western’s location sparked my initial interest. I grew up in the middle of dry wheat fields, so I was awestruck with how beautiful Bellingham was. I loved the proximity to Seattle and Vancouver. When I realized how affordable tuition was, I was sold! I felt welcomed into the community through clubs and campus events, and I loved how easy it was to get to know my professors on a first name basis. I couldn’t have picked a better place to call home!”
zak balonick, mathematics & economics
| Sunland, CA
“I chose Western because it gave me the chance to be completely independent and challenge myself both personally and academically, and being 1,200 miles from home kind of forces that on you. Western is such a great place: the school is not so big that you’re just a face in the crowd, but not so small that you feel limited. I have had numerous opportunities to further myself both educationally and professionally.”
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Vancouver, B.C.
BELLINGHAM
an incredible location
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Most students get around town using Bellingham’s convenient public transportation. A Viking Xpress Bus Pass is free to students taking six or more credit hours.
Get directions and maps of campus at
wwu.edu/campusmaps
With a population of 80,000, two downtown areas, a large mall, outstanding restaurants, and an active arts community, Bellingham is much more than just a college town.
Bellingham will keep you moving. Enjoy a morning on Mount Baker, an afternoon at the Farmer’s Market, and an evening on the bay at Boulevard Park watching the sunset.
Bellingham is perfect for those who want to be close, but not too close, to big city life. Western is far enough away from Seattle to allow you to focus on your studies, but you can still be in Seattle or Vancouver, BC in less than an hour and a half.
Western students call Bellingham an escape, an adventure, a breath of fresh air, and a great place to call home.
Whether you’re looking to hit the shops downtown or venture outside,
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Looking for more reasons to love Bellingham? Check out
262 mi
Money Magazine ranked Bellingham as one of the best places in the country to live.
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academic programs YOU HAVE INTERESTS, WE HAVE OPTIONS
WESTERN’S HONORS PROGRAM
With more than 160 academic programs offered in seven distinct colleges, we involve undergraduates in research, scholarship, and creative endeavors across a wide range of disciplines. You will have opportunities to work directly with professors as research assistants, student employees, and in other positions traditionally held by graduate students at other universities.
An inspiring intellectual community, Western’s Honors Program brings high-achieving students and outstanding faculty together in a small and highly interactive learning community. With an average class size of 20 students, the Honors Program offers an intimate college experience along with all the resources of a comprehensive public university. Students engage with diverse curriculum that includes general university requirements as well as special Honors seminars.
While our faculty are extensively engaged in innovative research, they primarily choose Western for the opportunity to teach you, the undergraduate. Over 98% of our classes are taught by faculty, not graduate assistants, and 90% of them hold the highest degrees in their field. With a student-faculty ratio of 21:1, it’s easy to build closeknit relationships with your professors, and our class sizes are small enough to foster one-on-one student-faculty interactions. In fact, over 60% of our classes have 30 or fewer students and over 77% of our classes have 40 or fewer.
wwu.edu/majors
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Admission to Honors is selective, and based on a review of academic achievement, standardized test scores, a letter of recommendation, and a writing sample. Honors students have the ability to foster an even stronger sense of community by electing to live in the Honors Cluster in the Edens Community.
wwu.edu/honors
COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES AMERICAN CULTURAL STUDIES † ANTHROPOLOGY †* ARCHEOLOGY CONCENTRATION BIOCULTURAL CONCENTRATION ANTHROPOLOGY/BIOLOGY ANTHROPOLOGY/SOCIAL STUDIES CANADIAN-AMERICAN STUDIES † COMMUNICATION SCIENCES AND DISORDERS † COMMUNICATION STUDIES †* EAST ASIAN STUDIES † ENGLISH †* CREATIVE WRITING EMPHASIS † LITERATURE EMPHASIS GENERAL STUDIES HISTORY †* HISTORY/SOCIAL STUDIES JOURNALISM † PUBLIC RELATIONS VISUAL JOURNALISM LIBERAL STUDIES HUMANITIES † HISTORY OF CULTURE CONCENTRATION RELIGION AND CULTURE CONCENTRATION LINGUISTICS † MODERN & CLASSICAL LANGUAGES FRENCH †* GERMAN †* JAPANESE †* SPANISH †* PHILOSOPHY † PHYSICAL EDUCATION, HEALTH AND RECREATION COMMUNITY HEALTH KINESIOLOGY HEALTH AND FITNESS SPECIALIST SPECIALIZATION MOVEMENT STUDIES SPECIALIZATION PRE-HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONS SPECIALIZATION PRE-PHYSICAL THERAPY SPECIALIZATION SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY SPECIALIZATION PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH * RECREATION POLITICAL SCIENCE † POLITICAL SCIENCE/SOCIAL STUDIES PSYCHOLOGY †* BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE SOCIOLOGY †* SOCIOLOGY/SOCIAL STUDIES STUDENT-FACULTY DESIGNED MAJOR
COLLEGE OF SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY †* ECOLOGY, EVOLUTION AND ORGANISMAL BIOLOGY EMPHASIS GENERAL BIOLOGY EMPHASIS MARINE BIOLOGY EMPHASIS MOLECULAR AND CELL BIOLOGY EMPHASIS BIOLOGY/ANTHROPOLOGY BIOLOGY/MATHEMATICS CHEMISTRY †* BIOCHEMISTRY COMPUTER SCIENCE † COMPUTER AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS SECURITY ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRIAL DESIGN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (VEHICLE DESIGN SPECIALIZATION) † MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY † MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY (CAD AND MANUFACTURING OPTION) PLASTICS ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY
GEOLOGY †* EARTH SCIENCE * ENVIRONMENTAL & ENGINEERING CONCENTRATION GEOLOGY GEOPHYSICS CONCENTRATION MATHEMATICS †* APPLIED MATHEMATICS MATHEMATICS/COMPUTER SCIENCE PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY †*
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS ACCOUNTING † DECISION SCIENCES BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT MANUFACTURING & SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT † ECONOMICS † ECONOMICS/ACCOUNTING ECONOMICS/ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES ECONOMICS/MATHEMATICS ECONOMICS/POLITICAL SCIENCE ECONOMICS/SOCIAL STUDIES FINANCIAL ECONOMICS POLITICS/PHILOSOPHY/ECONOMICS FINANCE AND MARKETING FINANCE CONCENTRATION MARKETING CONCENTRATION MANAGEMENT BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION GENERAL CONCENTRATION † INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS CONCENTRATION MANAGEMENT CONCENTRATION BUSINESS AND SUSTAINABILITY
WOODRING COLLEGE OF EDUCATION ELEMENTARY EDUCATION EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (P-3) LANGUAGE, LITERACY, AND CULTURAL STUDIES HUMAN SERVICES NURSING (RN TO BSN) SECONDARY EDUCATION SPECIAL EDUCATION EARLY CHILDHOOD SPECIAL EDUCATION (P-3) TEACHING ENGLISH TO SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGES (TESOL)
COLLEGE OF FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS ART STUDIO *# ART HISTORY † DANCE †*# DESIGN # MUSIC †* COMPOSITION CONCENTRATION HISTORY AND LITERATURE CONCENTRATION PERFORMANCE CONCENTRATION THEATRE †*
HUXLEY COLLEGE OF THE ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE † FRESHWATER ECOLOGY EMPHASIS MARINE ECOLOGY EMPHASIS TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY EMPHASIS TOXICOLOGY EMPHASIS
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES †* ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION † ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY † GEOGRAPHY †* GEOGRAPHY/SOCIAL STUDIES URBAN PLANNING & SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT STUDENT-FACULTY DESIGNED MAJOR
FAIRHAVEN COLLEGE OF INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES THE FAIRHAVEN INTERDISCIPLINARY CONCENTRATION IS AN INDIVIDUALLY DESIGNED MAJOR. INNOVATION, SELFDIRECTION, STRONG ADVISING AND STUDENTFACULTY COLLABORATION CHARACTERIZE A FAIRHAVEN EDUCATION.
PRE-PROFESSIONAL PATHWAYS PRE-CHIROPRACTIC PRE-DENTISTRY PRE-ENGINEERING PRE-LAW PRE-MEDICINE PRE-NURSING PRE-NUTRITION PRE-OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PRE-OPTOMETRY PRE-PHARMACY PRE-PHYSICAL THERAPY PRE-PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PRE-VETERINARY
MINORS AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES AMERICAN INDIAN STUDIES ARABIC AND ISLAMIC STUDIES ASIAN AMERICAN STUDIES AUDIO TECHNOLOGY, MUSIC AND SOCIETY BILINGUAL EDUCATION * CHINESE CLASSICAL STUDIES COMPUTER SYSTEMS DISASTER RISK REDUCTION DIVERSITY IN HIGHER EDUCATION EDUCATION AND SOCIAL JUSTICE EMBEDDED SYSTEMS ENERGY POLICY ENGLISH ENGLISH LINGUISTICS FILM STUDIES FOREIGN CULTURES GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS GREEK INTERNATIONAL STUDIES INTERNET RESOURCE CREATION AND MANAGEMENT LAW, DIVERSITY AND JUSTICE LATIN LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES MATERIALS SCIENCE PUBLIC HISTORY QUEER STUDIES RAZA LATINA STUDIES RUSSIAN RUSSIAN AND EURASIAN STUDIES SPORT PSYCHOLOGY STUDY OF RELIGION SUSTAINABLE DESIGN USER EXPERIENCE DESIGN WOMEN’S LITERATURE WOMEN STUDIES WRITING STUDIES † MINOR OFFERED * RELATED TEACHING ENDORSEMENT AVAILABLE # BFA AVAILABLE Note: This list of academic programs is subject to change with advanced notice.
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COLLEGE OF
HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES With a broad set of options, student-centered classes, and an active approach to teaching and learning, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences is ideal for those looking to explore issues of life, culture, and society. The College places strong emphasis on student-faculty collaboration, offering laboratory experiences, community-based faculty-directed service learning, and student involvement in faculty research programs. The College of Humanities and Social Science trains lawyers, psychologists, and historians to be critical thinkers and ethical problem solvers. We ground future journalists, politicians, and sociologists with teachings of the past and inspire them to take us in new directions.
HIGHLIGHTS Enhance your learning with a trip across the world! Immerse yourself in a native speaking country via accredited study abroad partnerships. Gain practical experience and give back to the community through volunteerism, internships, and practicums. Humanities and Social Science students contribute between 150,000 – 175,000 hours of community service per year. Graduates have had tremendous success in winning Fulbright Fellowships. Of the nine Western students and alumni who received this prestigious award for 2013, an astounding seven were graduates of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Western’s student publications and their writers and editors consistently win the top awards in regional Society of Professional Journalists contests. With six on-campus newspapers, magazines and journals to write for, expect to get real experience writing, reporting and editing in the field.
wwu.edu/chss
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Stadium Piece, 1979-80 © Bruce Nauman
COLLEGE OF
SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY With state of the art lab equipment, exciting fieldwork, and meaningful research projects, studying science, mathematics or technology at Western can be a powerful, life-changing experience. Our unique focus on undergraduate students is especially effective as we prepare students for research-intensive fields. Faculty participate directly in the classroom and laboratory instruction of Western students, emphasizing independent student scholarship as they develop creative and innovative thinkers. Active learning and close working relationships with faculty will give you a serious advantage in applying to and preparing for graduate school, and as you enter the workforce.
HIGHLIGHTS Western was ranked in the top 2% of the nation, and 13th among 560 similar mastersgranting institutions in the number of students who go on to earn research doctorates (The Survey of Earned Doctorates). In our Vehicle Research Institute, students and faculty design and build vehicles with cutting-edge technology. The Vehicle Research Institute team was a finalist in the 2010 Automotive X-Prize Competition and Automobile Magazine describes Western as “very possibly the best school in the country for total car design.” Shannon Point Marine Center (SPMC), Western’s 78-acre off-campus coastal research facility, offers access to natural marine habitat, sophisticated labs, a fleet of research vessels, and a 12,600-square-foot Marine Education Center. Accelerated degree programs in Computer Science and Mathematics allow students to gain a master’s degree with an additional year of study.
wwu.edu/cst
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COLLEGE OF
BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS 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. We take great pride in building connections between faculty and students. 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.
HIGHLIGHTS Participate in local and international internships: Western students get put to work by Boeing, Costco, Microsoft, REI, Starbucks, Solomon Smith Barney and many others. It’s not uncommon for these internships to turn into solid job offers after graduation. Eight students were named national finalists at the 2013 Collegiate DECA International Conference, and two of them were crowned national champions. With an additional year of study, students can earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Western’s MBA program is ranked in the top 100 programs worldwide by the Aspen Institute.
The College of Business and Economics is accredited by the AACSB International, The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, guaranteeing students the highest standards in business education.
cbe.wwu.edu
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WOODRING COLLEGE OF
EDUCATION
Woodring is widely recognized as the premier teaching school in the Northwest. Woodring faculty have a valuable mix of classroom and scholarly experience, providing students with both a strong theoretical background and practical teaching strategies. Starting their first term, Woodring students gain real classroom field experience. Students interact with kids and teens in local schools, through tutoring and mentoring programs or as a student-teacher in one of nearly twenty different countries. All teacher education students complete a student teaching internship. Human Services majors gain hands-on experience in both practicum and internships as well.
HIGHLIGHTS Western ranks #4 in the nation for Board Certified Teachers. National Board Certification is considered the “gold standard” for teaching excellence. Pursue a minor in Education and Social Justice, attain additional endorsements in Early Childhood Education, English as a Second Language, Literacy, or Special Education, or earn a degree in Human Services, the only program of its kind in the state. Compass 2 Campus provides opportunities for college student mentors to encourage students from traditionally underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue higher education. Western’s innovative Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education program is on the leading-edge of science education research and practice.
wce.wwu.edu “I decided I was going to attend Western for its prestigious teaching program. I also chose to go here because of the beautiful scenery, passionate professors, and Western’s passion for embracing diversity. Western is without a doubt a university that focuses on the students and their education.” – Elizabeth Lynn Early Childhood Education major WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY VIEWBOOK
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COLLEGE OF
FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS Dancers, musicians, artists, designers and actors‌ prepare to thrive! The arts bring our campus to life, and have a huge influence on the culture of the Bellingham community. For anyone seeking the spotlight or a life of creativity, Bellingham will feel like home. Most faculty members in Fine and Performing Arts are also active and accomplished performers, artists, actors, historians, composers, designers and directors themselves, with vast knowledge of the current arts world. Learn from the best and challenge yourself at national competitions and regional exhibitions. With three on-campus art galleries, nearly 300 annual performance events, and a richly talented student body, Western is a creative haven for artistic thinkers.
HIGHLIGHTS Bellingham is featured in the book The 100 Best Small Art Towns in the U.S. Theatre and Dance faculty and students provided design work for the 2012 Super Bowl halftime show. Western’s comedy improv team, the Dead Parrots Society, has participated in improv festivals in Chicago, New York City, Vancouver, B.C. and Seattle and placed first in the 2011 National College Improv Tournament. More than 25 large and small music ensembles, along with frequent concerts and student recitals, are an integral part of the campus experience for everyone at Western. The College puts on nearly 300 performances, special presentations and gallery events each year, many of which are free to the public.
wwu.edu/cfpa
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Photo by Robert Divers Herrick
HUXLEY COLLEGE OF
THE ENVIRONMENT In 1968, Huxley College of the Environment became one of the first environmental studies colleges in the nation. Forty years later, Huxley College remains respected around the world for producing interdisciplinary problem solvers who are capable of addressing real-world environmental problems. Offering a variety of academic options within Environmental Science and Environmental Studies as well as combined majors in education and economics, Huxley College provides the technical skills to be successful in the field along with a broad understanding of social and political forces that affect the environment. For careers in science, law, politics and business, Huxley College may be the perfect fit.
HIGHLIGHTS Western’s natural setting offers unique opportunities for scientific research and exploration in the field. The Planet, an award-winning student-produced environmental magazine, is the only undergraduate environmental journalism magazine in the nation. Faculty-led study abroad programs allow students to travel with a professor over the summer to countries such as Italy, Tanzania, Greece, and Costa Rica.
The Sierra Club calls Huxley College “groundbreaking”
wwu.edu/huxley
“I have always loved being outdoors and studying cultures and maps, so the geography department and Huxley were a perfect fit. I was also very interested in Canada and Canadian studies, and Western has one of the best (if not the best) Centers for Canadian Studies in the nation.” – Ian Faulds Geography major WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY VIEWBOOK
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FAIRHAVEN COLLEGE OF
INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES Fairhaven is a truly unique place: a 425-student interdisciplinary liberal arts college offering seminar classes of 15 to 20 students, access to all the classes and resources of a mid-sized public university, and a broad focus on social justice and community. Fairhaven students take an uncommon level of responsibility for their education and make connections across a multitude of academic disciplines. Fairhaven students can design their own degree, or pursue any major offered by Western. The selfdesigned 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.
HIGHLIGHTS Recent student-designed concentrations include: Medicine and Social Justice, Film and the Art of Collaboration, International Conflict and Social Justice: Methods in Peacemaking, and Expressive Arts as Therapy for Social Change. Fairhaven offers three interdisciplinary minors that are open to all Western students: Education and Social Justice; Audio Recording, Music and Society; and Law, Diversity and Justice. One of four colleges featured in the book Fixing College Education: A New Curriculum for the Twenty-first Century. The Associated Students Outback Farm is a 5-acre student-run experiential learning space that 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 ten months. In addition to the Western application, admission to Fairhaven requires a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and a personal interview upon request of the Admissions Coordinator. For more information: fairhaven.admissions@wwu.edu.
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Western is committed to cultivating global citizens who understand and appreciate cultural differences and have the competencies to contribute to and succeed in a global society. The Center for International Studies serves as an umbrella for international education at Western. It seeks to foster international and global perspectives for all Western students through courses, international experiences on campus, and study abroad.
broaden your horizons
With a wide variety of language majors and minors, as well as academic programs like Arabic and Islamic Studies, East Asian Studies, Latin American Studies, Russian and Eurasian Studies, an International Business major and a minor in International Studies, it’s easy to enrich your undergraduate experience, even if you don’t study abroad.
HIGHLIGHTS Quarter, semester and year-long study abroad programs are offered in dozens of countries including Australia, Chile, Ecuador, England, France, Italy, Mexico, Nepal, Spain, and Vietnam. Western faculty also lead short-term study abroad courses. Earn college credit while you investigate eco-tourism in the Amazon rain forest, participate in service-learning projects in Rwanda, study language and culture in China, or apply sustainable design practices in Greece. The weekly World Issues Forums sponsored by Fairhaven College of Interdisciplinary Studies provide thought-provoking educational opportunities that support an informed and engaged global citizenry. The International Buddy Program matches Western student volunteers with international students, providing opportunities to meet and make global friendships while learning new cultures and traditions.
international.wwu.edu
“The summer before my last year at Western, I spent six weeks in rural Kenya through the Center for Service-Learning, and I haven’t stopped talking about it since. My time there truly changed me, and gave me a chance to see how important it is to learn outside of the classroom. It also really helped me to solidify where I wanted to take myself after I graduated, and gave me direction for career possibilities.” – Monika Anderson Sociology/American Cultural Studies major
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Stadium Piece, 1979-80 Š Bruce Nauman
Bay View Station, 1987 Š George Trakas
life beyond the classroom The most successful students are those who realize that learning also takes place outside of class. Run for student office, embrace your culture and community, or head to the mountains, the water, or the gym to balance your hard work in the classroom with some active fun. The Associated Students (AS) at Western houses over 200 clubs and programs that are managed by elected student leaders and staffed by students. Work as a volunteer, apply for a campus job coordinating concerts, raise awareness of a cause you care about, or gain valuable experience managing budgets and staff. Student leaders organize Black History Month celebrations, coordinate the annual Low Rider Show, reach out as peer health educators, and sponsor voter registration drives. Get involved in leadership at Western and watch as your unique real-world experiences lead to rapid success in the professional world.
A SAMPLE OF STUDENT CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS A’capella Club Black Student Union Campus Christian Fellowship Dead Parrots Society (improv) Debate Team Film Club Hillel Jewish Student Organization Humans vs. Zombies International Business Club KUGS radio Latino Student Union Mountain Bike Club Muslim Student Association Pre-Med Club Queers & Allies for Activism Snowboard & Ski Club South Asian Student Association Students for Renewable Energy Students for Social Change Swing Kids Women in Science
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diversity, culture and community Ours is a truly supportive community, rich with diverse opinions and life experiences from around the state, nation, and globe. Our community celebrates cultural and ethnic diversity and supports a multitude of perspectives to help you develop personal pride, appreciation of heritage, and respect for cultural, social, political and religious differences. Western’s Ethnic Student Center (ESC), serves as a home away from home for many students. Advisors and student staff work hard to foster identity, community and leadership amongst the ESC’s thousands of members and loyal alums. Close collaboration between clubs like the Black Student Union, Latino Student Union, Filipino American Student Association, and the African Caribbean Club make Western’s ESC unique. ESC members study together, organize campus-wide events, plan road trips, debate current events, and challenge each other to succeed.
ACADEMIC PROGRAMS WITH A CULTURAL FOCUS African American Studies American Cultural Studies American Indian Studies Arabic and Islamic Studies Asian American Studies Bilingual Education Biocultural Anthropolgy Canadian-American Studies Diversity in Higher Education East Asian Studies Foreign Cultures International Business International Studies Languages (Chinese, French, German, Greek, Japanese, Latin, Russian, Spanish) Law, Diversity and Justice Latin American Studies Raza Latina Studies Russian and Eurasian Studies Queer Studies Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Women Studies
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athletics & recreation With NCAA Division II athletics, club sports, intramurals, a state-of-the-art recreation center, and endless outdoor opportunities at your doorstep, don’t expect to sit still for long. Staying active will keep you energized for life inside and outside of class.
HIGHLIGHTS Western captured a record breaking eight conference championships in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC). Titles were earned in women’s soccer, volleyball, men’s and women’s basketball, men’s indoor and outdoor track & field and men’s and women’s golf. In 2012-2013, Western’s men’s and women’s basketball teams advanced to the final four in the NCAA II tournament, women’s rowing finished third at nationals, and both men’s and women’s golf squads reached the national semifinals. The Vikings also reached the Far West Regional in women’s soccer and the regional semifinals in volleyball.
Club Sports »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »»
Baseball Climbing Cycling Equestrian Fencing Ice Hockey Judo Men’s Crew Men’s Lacrosse Men’s Rugby Men’s Ultimate Sailing Swimming Tennis Water Skiing Women’s Lacrosse Women’s Rugby Women’s Ultimate Women’s Volleyball Women’s Water Polo »» Wrestling
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Intramurals »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »»
Basketball Badminton Dodge Ball Flag Football Floor Hockey Golf Kick Ball Ping Pong Racquetball Indoor Soccer Softball Tennis Ultimate Volleyball Wallyball
WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY VIEWBOOK
NCAA Division II »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »» »»
Basketball Cheerleading Cross Country Golf Soccer Softball Track & Field Women’s Rowing Women’s Volleyball
In 2012-2013 the Vikings placed 12th nationally in the Learfield Sports Directors’ Cup all-sports standings among 312 Division II schools. Western student-athletes are actively involved in the community, raising $10,300 in an American Cancer Society Relay for Life fundraiser and another $45,000 for additional causes during the last three years. They also enjoy a graduation rate 14 percent higher than the NCAA Division II national average. The Wade King Student Recreation Center features an indoor track, a 30foot rock climbing wall, a swimming pool, a three court gym, a 32-person whirlpool, cardio equipment, and an extensive weight training facility.
wwuvikings.com
campus housing WHY LIVE ON CAMPUS? Living on campus is a choice at Western, but more than 90% of our freshman do. Research shows students who live on campus are more satisfied with their education, earn higher grades, and graduate in higher numbers than students who live off campus. Campus residents enjoy the convenience of nearby dining, onsite laundry facilities, study lounges, TV lounges and game rooms. The residential experience is designed to help you learn about yourself, how to live and work with others, and how to develop your own perspectives.
WHERE WILL I LIVE? Western offers a diverse range of living options designed to meet your unique needs. Sixteen residence halls and one apartment complex make up nine residential communities. Halls come with traditional corridor-style rooms or suite-style configurations. Most rooms are doubles, but single and triple rooms are available, as well.
WHO WILL I LIVE WITH? We offer ways for you to pair up with someone you know or search for a roommate. If you do not request your own roommate, you will be assigned a compatible match based upon a well-designed roommate survey.
housing.wwu.edu
life on campus 92% of freshman choose to live on campus their first year bike storage for all residence halls alcohol-free and quiet floors are available international and honors clusters are available WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY VIEWBOOK
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working on campus WHY WORK ON CAMPUS? If you’re interested in having a job while you are a student at Western, you should consider working on campus. Not only will you work in a location that is convenient to classrooms and residence halls, but we treat our student employees as students first and employees second. We can accommodate class schedules, heavy study loads, and term paper deadlines. Working on campus also provides you with outstanding opportunities for professional development and community building. You’ll make new friends, and work with faculty and staff who can help boost your resume with the experience employers seek from college graduates. Student employees tell us they gain enhanced confidence and improved interpersonal and time management skills from their jobs - all while earning a paycheck!
A SAMPLE OF ON-CAMPUS JOBS DJ for KUGS-FM (Western’s radio station) Lead campus tours for the Office of Admissions Design websites for the Associated Students Publicity Center Provide office support for your academic department Sell tickets to WWU events at the Box Office Serve food at catered events and in the dining halls Assist patrons at the library information desk
Need help finding work? Our Student Employment Center is a free resource and can provide you with job listings and volunteer opportunities. Work Study jobs are offered to students who have applied and been accepted for a work study award as part of their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Non-Work Study jobs are available to all students. Volunteer and service-learning opportunities, though unpaid, allow students to participate with organizations that serve their community. With all of the types of jobs available you’re sure to find something that will fit your personality and your finances.
finaid.wwu.edu/studentjobs
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paying for college NON RESIDENT
WASHINGTON RESIDENT
In an increasingly competitive job market, earning a college degree is one of the smartest decisions you can 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 cost.
TUITION $ 18,392
TUITION $ 7,503
FEES*
But, cost is only part of the equation. In addition to improving your future earning potential, the education, experiences, and connections you receive at Western will provide a foundation for future success in all aspects of your life.
1,359
$
BOOKS & SUPPLIES**
1,080
$
SCHOLARSHIPS & FINANCIAL AID Western has a long tradition of making college affordable for all students whose families cannot afford the full costs. Western helps eligible students pay for college through a variety of financial aid options, including:
ON-CAMPUS HOUSING/MEALS**
9,656
$
PERSONAL EXPENSES**
»» Over $120 million in scholarships and financial aid, including more than $3 million in scholarships to new students annually.
1,806
$
»» Scholarships that recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, special talents and multicultural achievement. »» A variety of scholarships for students who live in states other than Washington, including Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) states and others. »» Need-based financial aid and low interest loans to students whose FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) demonstrates they could not otherwise afford to attend.
TRANSPORTATION**
1,266
$
WASHINGTON RESIDENT
TOTAL 22,670
$
Cost of attendance
»» Need-based work-study (FAFSA dependent) and other on- and offcampus employment opportunities. »» More than 60% of students at Western are awarded financial aid!
* fees include technology, health services, student recreation center, public transportation, etc. NON RESIDENT
TOTAL 33,559
** not fixed costs; varies depending on student. Housing and meals expenses can be reduced with room type.
$
finaid.wwu.edu
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Western alumni Graduating from Western isn’t just about earning a degree; it’s about empowering you to use your knowledge and skills to better the communities and causes you care about most. We are proud to educate exceptional citizens as well as outstanding professionals – intellectually curious individuals who experience personal and professional success and also have the desire to give back to others. Given our emphasis on leadership development, social responsibility and top-notch academic preparation across a wide range of disciplines, it’s not surprising that Western’s alumni volunteer, mentor and support a variety of initiatives throughout the state and the nation to improve the lives of others.
HIGHLIGHTS With more than 110,000 graduates living and working all around the globe, the Alumni Association hosts events throughout the year and all over the world. Confirming Western’s culture of academic excellence, Western students and alumni were the recipients of nine prestigious Fulbright Scholarships in 2013. Back2Bellingham alumni and family weekend is the biggest Western gathering of the year, with more than 7,000 WWU alumni and families returning to campus each spring for reunions, open houses, and other activities. The Ask! program is an online network created by the Western Alumni Association to connect Western students with alumni for professional mentoring and career networking. The Alumni Association continues to give back to the Western community through fundraising and scholarships to support current students.
alumni.wwu.edu Western ranks number one on the Peace Corps 2013 Top Colleges rankings among medium-sized schools, with 73 undergraduate alumni currently serving across the globe. 24
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WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY VIEWBOOK
life after Western 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 they say our alumni are unusually innovative, flexible, and forwardthinking.
STANDING OUT FROM THE CROWD
TJ Martin, Western alumnus (‘05) won an Oscar in 2011 for his Documentary Undefeated
DEVELOPING CREATIVE SOLUTIONS TO REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS In the College of Sciences and Technology Corporate Alliance Program (CAP), Computer Science students work on a software development project under the direct technical supervision of a corporate partner. For example, one student team is working with Bellingham-based Emergency Reporting to develop mobile applications that allow firefighters and other firstresponders to use their smart phones and tablets to get information quickly. Apart from learning and exercising software engineering skills, students gain experience in teamwork, professional conduct, project management, communication with a diversity of colleagues, and consideration of the commercial, legal, social and ethical impacts of their work.
Western assists students in finding internships, an increasingly popular way to gain experience and build your resume. According to our graduates, this experience really pays off. After interning at companies like Microsoft, Boeing, Merrill Lynch, REI, Swedish Hospital and the Seattle Mariners, graduates are more likely to be employed within their field of study, more likely to have a job within three months of graduation, and have a higher starting salary than those without internship experience. Whether it’s studying chemistry at Boston University, taxation at Columbia University, law at Georgetown University, or medicine at Johns Hopkins University, Western graduates continue their education in a broad range of graduate and professional programs. Recent graduates have gained admission to graduate programs at Brown University, California Polytechnic State University, Duke University, Harvard University, MIT, New York University, Stanford University, University of Washington, University of British Columbia, University of Pittsburgh, and University of California, Santa Cruz, among others.
“With its undistracted focus on educating well-rounded liberal arts graduates who are prepared for the work world, WWU is something of a human resource manager’s playground.” - Washington CEO Magazine
WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY VIEWBOOK
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Western admissions Recommended High School Course Requirements
4
units of English, college prep composition and/or literature
3
units of math, including geometry and two units of algebra beyond pre-algebra*
3
units of social science, such as history, civics, psychology, economics, etc.
2
units of science, with one year of algebrabased chemistry or physics; one year must include a lab
2
sequential units of a single world language, Native American language or American Sign Language
1
semester or trimester of fine and performing arts
* During the senior year of high school, students must earn a credit in a math-based quantitative course. Completion of higher-level math prior to the senior year exempts students from the senior year quantitative course requirement (e.g., pre-calculus, math analysis or calculus).
Most admitted students go above and beyond these minimum course requirements. A full load of standard academic courses, Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), Running Start or diverse other College-in-the-High-School, and Honors courses provide experiences an excellent foundation for a successful college experience. Choose to challenge yourself by taking classes that push activities you to think in new ways, explore tough topics and support you in becoming a well-rounded student.
essay course rigor
grade trends
gpa community involvement test scores
Your academic performance is obviously important in the admissions process, but we realize there are countless additional factors that indicate your true potential. Each piece of the puzzle represents qualities we consider when making admissions decisions, with the most important piece being what YOU will bring to Western Washington University. Your essay and activities list can speak volumes to the Admissions Committee, so seize the opportunity to tell us your story.
you!
making the grade: admitted freshman stats 3.29-3.8 middle 50% of high school GPAs 23-28 middle 50% ACT scores 1530-1830 middle 50% SAT scores
2002 average SAT for students admitted to honors program
3.88 average GPA for students admitted to honors program
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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application timeline admissions.wwu.edu/apply
In the fall and early winter students should:
• Take the SAT or ACT • Request to have high school transcripts sent • Visit campus, in person or online
EARLY SEPT
• Contact our helpful admissions counselors with questions
Fall applications go live online.
Notification of admissions decisions and scholarships.
NOV 1- APRIL
JAN 31
[Don’t worry if you don’t hear from us right away; most of our students receive their admission decision and/or scholarship letter after the application deadline.]
Fall Quarter Deadline Last day to submit your application to Western before it’s marked late!
FEB 15
Priority Scholarship Deadline On-time applicants get full consideration for Western’s merit scholarships. Recipients of merit scholarship are notified by mid April.
Financial Aid Priority Deadline File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the February 15 priority date to be considered for federal and state financial aid. The fastest and most accurate way to file your FAFSA is online at fafsa.ed.gov — you can complete your FAFSA starting January 1.
National College Decision Day
MID MARCH
Financial aid award notification begins if you submitted the FAFSA by the priority deadline.
EARLY APRIL
MAY 1
Western Preview, our Saturday Open House for all admitted students who haven’t already visited campus and those who like us so much they want to visit again.
SEPTEMBER
Last day to accept your offer of admission and priority application date for on-campus housing.
AUGUST
Summerstart, Western’s new student orientation, advising, and registration program for incoming freshmen.
Welcome to Western! CLASSES BEGIN!
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visit Western
Office of Admissions Old Main 200, MS 9009 516 High Street, Bellingham, WA 98225
we want to meet you!
admissions.wwu.edu/visit
Discovery Days
Campus Tours
Other Opportunities
A more comprehensive experience than a campus tour, our Discovery Days program includes an admissions presentation and panel where students and parents can ask questions of admissions counselors, a faculty member, and current students. The day also includes a residence hall showcase. After the program, you are free to visit departments at your leisure.
Join our Student Admissions Representatives on a 90-minute walking tour of campus, offered twice every weekday and most Saturdays. You will be able to visit academic buildings, see inside a residence hall, and learn all about the exciting opportunities Western has to offer.
Large open-house style events for prospective students occur in October and April. Check our website for the most up-to-date information regarding special visit opportunities.
Office of Admissions
Join our Mailing List
Meet our Counselors
Phone (360) 650-3440 Email admit@wwu.edu
Want to receive insider tips and exclusive info? Sign up at:
We’re here to help and answer any questions you might have:
admissions.wwu.edu
admissions.wwu.edu/connect
admissions.wwu.edu/team
View campus photos at admissions.wwu.edu/slideshow Connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/westernwashingtonuniversity Follow us on Twitter @wwuadmit
Scan this code with your smart phone or tablet to embark on Western’s Interactive Walking Tour!