Rankings / By State

Best Bachelor's Programs in Washington

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 20 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$64,815

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

63%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$23,276

Avg. Net Price

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Finding the right bachelor's program in Washington can feel overwhelming, especially when weighing options across various campuses. The schools featured here not only provide a solid education but also show strong outcomes when it comes to post-graduation earnings and student mobility. On average, graduates from these programs earn about $64,815 annually, a figure that highlights the potential return on investment in this state.

What sets these institutions apart from others is their commitment to student success, as reflected in graduation rates, net price, and student debt. For instance, the University of Washington-Seattle Campus boasts an impressive graduation rate of 84% and a manageable debt load of $14,615, making it a compelling choice for students. The list below helps you see how each program fares on these critical metrics, allowing for a more informed decision.

Take the University of Washington-Bothell Campus and Washington State University as examples. While both schools provide a solid education, Bothell has a graduation rate of 67% and a lower net price of $12,319 compared to WSU's 61% graduation rate and $14,971 net price. These differences can significantly affect a student's experience and financial future, making it essential to consider what matters most in your college search.

Key Findings

University of Washington-Seattle Campus graduates earn $78,466 annually.

The average graduation rate for these programs is 63%.

Pacific Lutheran University has a net price of $19,589, one of the highest in the list.

Washington State University graduates carry an average debt of $19,500.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 20

Avg. earnings at 10yr $64,815

Avg. graduation rate 63%

Avg. net price $23,276

Avg. median debt $20,320

How We Ranked

Bachelor's programs in Washington ranked by outcomes and mobility

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Pacific Lutheran University

Tacoma, WA

Graduation70%

Earnings$66,990

Net Price$19,589

View full profile →

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Seattle, WA

Graduation84%

Earnings$78,466

Net Price$14,091

View full profile →

Western Washington University

Bellingham, WA

Graduation65%

Earnings$62,569

Net Price$21,193

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Pacific Lutheran University

Tacoma, WA · 2,401 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Tacoma, Washington, Pacific Lutheran University has a student body of 2,401, creating an intimate learning environment. With a 70% graduation rate, the university emphasizes student success and community, reflected in its supportive campus culture. The diverse programs and a commitment to service prepare graduates for meaningful careers, with median earnings at 10 years hitting $66,990.

78% accepted 70% graduate $66,990 earnings

Pacific's full profile

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Seattle, WA · 31,942 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 84%, the University of Washington-Seattle Campus demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. The vibrant campus in Seattle is home to nearly 32,000 students, creating a dynamic environment full of resources and opportunities for engagement in various fields of study.

39% accepted 84% graduate $78,466 earnings

University's full profile

Western Washington University

Bellingham, WA · 13,544 students · Public

Bellingham's Western Washington University serves a vibrant community of 13,544 students. While it has a graduation rate of 65%, the university is known for its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, with a 93% acceptance rate. Graduates earn a median of $62,569 after 10 years, showcasing the school's strong connection to local and regional job markets.

93% accepted 65% graduate $62,569 earnings

Western's full profile

Washington State University

Pullman, WA · 21,099 students · Public

Washington State University in Pullman is home to over 21,000 students and prides itself on a strong sense of community and school spirit. The graduation rate of 61% indicates room for growth, yet many students thrive here, particularly those who appreciate a traditional college experience with a wide range of programs and activities to get involved in.

87% accepted 61% graduate $68,905 earnings

Washington's full profile

Whitman College

Walla Walla, WA · 1,531 students · Private nonprofit

Whitman College, nestled in Walla Walla, Washington, has a tight-knit community of 1,531 students. The college prides itself on an 81% graduation rate and strong academic rigor, fostering a rich environment for intellectual growth and exploration. Graduates enjoy impressive earnings, with a median of $67,589 at the 10-year mark, reflecting the value of a Whitman education in the job market.

38% accepted 81% graduate $67,589 earnings

Whitman's full profile

Seattle University

Seattle, WA · 4,062 students · Private nonprofit

Seattle University is located in a vibrant urban setting, providing students access to a rich array of cultural and career opportunities. With 74% of students graduating, the university fosters an environment that encourages academic success and personal growth, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a well-rounded education in a metropolitan area.

77% accepted 74% graduate $75,272 earnings

Seattle's full profile

Gonzaga University

Spokane, WA · 5,198 students · Private nonprofit

In Spokane, Gonzaga University stands out with a strong graduation rate of 87% and a lively campus of 5,198 students. This supportive community fosters academic success and personal growth, with graduates seeing median earnings of $78,892 after 10 years. The environment encourages students to engage deeply, both in their studies and in the surrounding community.

82% accepted 87% graduate $78,892 earnings

Gonzaga's full profile

Central Washington University

Ellensburg, WA · 7,833 students · Public

Central Washington University sits in the heart of Ellensburg, where outdoor adventures and a tight-knit community offer students a unique college experience. With a 52% graduation rate, the university provides resources to help students navigate their academic journeys, making it a solid choice for individuals who thrive in a welcoming, supportive environment.

91% accepted 52% graduate $61,580 earnings

Central's full profile

Eastern Washington University

Cheney, WA · 6,222 students · Public

Eastern Washington University, located in Cheney, offers a smaller campus atmosphere with a strong sense of community. The graduation rate is lower at 45%, but the university is dedicated to helping students succeed, making it a good fit for those who appreciate personalized support in their educational journey.

91% accepted 45% graduate $57,897 earnings

Eastern's full profile

#10

Seattle Pacific University

Seattle, WA · 1,762 students · Private nonprofit

Seattle Pacific University has a close-knit community with a student body of around 1,762. With a focus on holistic education, the university emphasizes personal development alongside academic achievement, reflected in its 62% graduation rate.

83% accepted 62% graduate $64,506 earnings

Seattle's full profile

#11

Whitworth University

Spokane, WA · 1,858 students · Private nonprofit

Whitworth University, situated in Spokane, combines a strong academic reputation with a commitment to a liberal arts education. With a graduation rate of 70%, students can expect to receive quality education in a nurturing environment, fostering both personal and professional development as they prepare for their futures.

90% accepted 70% graduate $58,561 earnings

Whitworth's full profile

#12

University of Puget Sound

Tacoma, WA · 1,594 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, WA, combines rigorous academics with an inclusive community of approximately 1,594 students. With a 68% graduation rate, it's clear that the university is committed to helping students succeed in their educational journeys.

72% accepted 68% graduate $69,594 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Northwest University

Kirkland, WA · 645 students · Private nonprofit

Northwest University, located in Kirkland, WA, offers a vibrant learning community with around 645 students. Its graduation rate of 67% showcases its dedication to student success and personal growth in a supportive environment.

83% accepted 67% graduate $54,914 earnings

Northwest's full profile

#14

Walla Walla University

College Place, WA · 1,252 students · Private nonprofit

Walla Walla University, nestled in College Place, WA, fosters a supportive learning atmosphere with around 1,252 students. It features a strong commitment to community service and engagement, reflected in its solid 62% graduation rate.

62% graduate $61,885 earnings

University of Washington-Tacoma Campus

Tacoma, WA · 4,185 students · Public

The University of Washington-Tacoma Campus offers a smaller, more intimate learning environment with around 4,200 students, making it ideal for those who thrive with personalized attention. With a graduation rate of 63%, this campus provides unique programs that cater to a diverse student body, including a significant number of Pell Grant recipients at 40%.

83% accepted 63% graduate $78,466 earnings

University's full profile

#16

The Evergreen State College

Olympia, WA · 2,160 students · Public

The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington, prides itself on experiential learning and interdisciplinary studies. With an acceptance rate of 96%, it attracts a wide range of students interested in a non-traditional approach to higher education, making it an intriguing choice for those who value creativity and self-directed learning.

96% accepted 43% graduate $45,320 earnings

Saint Martin's University

Lacey, WA · 1,158 students · Private nonprofit

Saint Martin's University, situated in Lacey, Washington, emphasizes a strong liberal arts education with a supportive campus culture. Its acceptance rate of 90% indicates a welcoming environment for students seeking to further their education without excessive barriers.

90% accepted 55% graduate $62,092 earnings

Heritage University

Toppenish, WA · 812 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Toppenish, Washington, Heritage University has a commitment to serving diverse communities, with 67% of its students receiving Pell Grants. This focus reflects in its mission to empower students through education, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a supportive environment for their academic journey.

46% graduate $49,416 earnings

Heritage's full profile

#19

University of Washington-Bothell Campus

Bothell, WA · 5,457 students · Public

At the University of Washington-Bothell Campus, nearly 5,500 students benefit from a supportive learning community that emphasizes student engagement and hands-on experience. The graduation rate of 67% reflects a commitment to student achievement, while the campus's location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and access to the greater Seattle area’s opportunities.

91% accepted 67% graduate $78,466 earnings

University's full profile

#20

Northwest University-Center for Online and Extended Education

Kirkland, WA · 405 students · Private nonprofit

Northwest University's Center for Online and Extended Education in Kirkland offers a tailored approach to education for adult learners and non-traditional students. With 405 students, the smaller community allows for personalized attention and a focus on balancing education with life responsibilities.

40% graduate $54,914 earnings

Northwest's full profile

When we look closer at the data, one school stands out for its strong outcomes: the University of Washington-Seattle Campus. With an impressive graduation rate of 84% and average earnings of $78,466, it clearly outperforms Washington State University, which has a 61% graduation rate and average earnings of $68,905. This disparity highlights the importance of selecting a program that not only helps students complete their degrees but also prepares them for lucrative careers.

As you sift through this list of programs, consider how each school aligns with your personal priorities. Are smaller class sizes or a specific major more important to you? Think about location and campus culture too. Balancing factors like net price and potential student debt against what you hope to achieve with your degree will guide you toward a choice that fits your needs.

Ultimately, the path from college to a stable life is shaped by the decisions we make now. Choosing a program where graduation leads to solid earnings can significantly impact your family's future. For example, opting for a school with higher graduation rates could mean entering the workforce sooner, with less debt and better job prospects.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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