University of Washington-Tacoma Campus

The ROI score of 49 suggests a moderate return on investment. While in-state tuition is affordable and median earnings are decent, the graduation rate and out-of-state tuition present challenges to the overall value proposition.

The graduation rate at the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus is 62.8%.

UW-Tacoma generally offers higher affordability, especially for in-state students, but may have a less competitive academic profile and potentially lower post-graduation outcomes compared to the Seattle campus. Data suggests a moderate ROI.

The median debt for graduates from the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus is $14,615.

With an admission rate of 82.5%, UW-Tacoma is not highly selective, indicating broader access to admission.

The University of Washington-Tacoma Campus (UW Tacoma) has a relatively high admission rate of 82.5%, indicating that it is generally accessible to a broad range of qualified applicants. This suggests that while academic preparedness is important, UW Tacoma aims to provide opportunities to a significant portion of its applicant pool. Admission standards can vary slightly depending on the specific program or school within UW Tacoma, with some highly specialized or popular programs potentially having more competitive entry requirements. Prospective students should focus on maintaining strong academic performance in high school or previous college coursework, demonstrating a commitment to their chosen field of study, and submitting a well-crafted application. Meeting the general admission requirements for the University of Washington system is a baseline, but researching the specific prerequisites for your intended major at UW Tacoma is crucial for a successful application. The higher acceptance rate compared to many selective universities means that a focused and prepared applicant has a good chance of admission.

Yes, the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus generally represents a strong value for the money, particularly for Washington State residents. The in-state tuition is $13,168, and the median 10-year earnings for graduates are $78,466. This creates a favorable cost-to-earnings ratio. Furthermore, the median student debt upon graduation is $14,615, which is considerably lower than the national average. This suggests that graduates can likely repay their loans relatively quickly, potentially within 1-2 years, by allocating a portion of their median salary. The ROI score of 49 further supports its value. While out-of-state tuition is significantly higher ($43,404), the median earnings still indicate a positive long-term financial return, though the initial investment is greater. Compared to the cost of living and job market opportunities in the Puget Sound region, UW Tacoma provides an accessible pathway to a respected degree and a successful career.

UW Tacoma offers several strong programs that align well with the regional job market and lead to promising career outcomes. The School of Engineering & Technology is highly regarded, with programs like Computer Science and Systems Engineering preparing graduates for high-demand roles in the tech industry, which is booming in the Seattle-Tacoma area. The School of Nursing & Health Studies is another excellent choice, capitalizing on the significant healthcare sector in the region, with graduates finding employment at major hospitals like MultiCare and CHI Franciscan. Business programs within the Milgard School of Business are also popular, equipping students with skills for roles in finance, marketing, and management at companies such as Amazon and Boeing. For those interested in public service and community impact, programs in the School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, such as Urban Studies or Environmental Science, can lead to fulfilling careers in government, non-profits, and regional planning. The key is to choose a major that aligns with your interests and leverages the strong industry connections UW Tacoma has cultivated in the Puget Sound.

Student life at UW Tacoma is distinct due to its urban campus setting and commuter-heavy student body, though it offers a growing range of activities and a strong sense of community. As an urban-serving institution, UW Tacoma is integrated into the city of Tacoma, providing students with easy access to downtown amenities, cultural attractions, and public transportation. While it may not have the traditional sprawling campus feel or extensive on-campus housing of some universities, it fosters a vibrant academic and professional environment. Students can engage in various clubs and organizations, participate in intramural sports, and attend campus events, lectures, and workshops. The University Y Student Center provides a hub for student activities, dining, and social interaction. The focus is often on academic achievement and career preparation, with many students balancing studies with work and family responsibilities. The smaller size compared to UW Seattle allows for more intimate class settings and closer relationships with faculty.

UW Tacoma offers a range of financial aid options to help students manage the cost of their education. This includes federal and state grants, scholarships, and student loans. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial aid. For instance, data often shows that over 70-80% of undergraduate students receive financial assistance. This aid can come from federal programs like Pell Grants, state-specific grants like the Washington College Grant, and numerous institutional scholarships offered by UW Tacoma and the broader UW system. Merit-based scholarships are available for high-achieving students, while need-based aid is crucial for many. The university's Financial Aid Office is the primary resource for students seeking information on application processes, deadlines, and available aid packages. It's recommended that all prospective students complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine their eligibility for federal and state aid, and actively explore the scholarships listed on the UW Tacoma website to supplement their funding.

Graduates from the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus can expect competitive salaries, particularly in high-demand fields. The overall median earnings 10 years after graduation are reported at $78,466. This figure is a strong indicator of the career success UW Tacoma graduates achieve. Specific salary expectations vary significantly by major. For example, graduates from the School of Engineering & Technology, particularly in Computer Science and Systems Engineering, often command starting salaries well above the median, frequently ranging from $70,000 to $90,000 or more annually, especially when entering the tech hubs around Seattle. Similarly, graduates from the School of Nursing & Health Studies are in high demand and can expect starting salaries in the $60,000 to $80,000 range, with significant earning potential as they gain experience. Business graduates from the Milgard School of Business can anticipate starting salaries in the $50,000 to $70,000 range, depending on their specialization and employer. These figures are influenced by the strong regional economy and the university's connections with major employers in the Puget Sound area.

UW Tacoma primarily operates as an urban-serving institution, and as such, it does not offer traditional on-campus dormitory housing in the way a large residential university might. The majority of students live off-campus in apartments or houses in Tacoma or surrounding communities. However, UW Tacoma does provide some limited on-campus living options through its partnership with the University Y Student Center, which offers apartment-style housing for students. This housing is integrated into the downtown Tacoma environment, providing convenient access to campus facilities and city amenities. It's designed for students seeking an independent living experience close to their studies. For students seeking a more traditional college housing experience, they might consider looking at housing options near other institutions in the area or exploring the broader rental market in Tacoma. The focus at UW Tacoma is less on a contained residential campus and more on integrating students into the vibrant urban fabric of Tacoma.

While UW Tacoma may not have the same extensive research infrastructure as its Seattle counterpart, it is a good school for students seeking undergraduate research opportunities, particularly those focused on applied and community-based projects. The university emphasizes faculty-mentored research, allowing undergraduate students to engage directly with professors on meaningful projects. Many programs, especially within the School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, encourage students to undertake research as part of their capstone projects or through independent study. Faculty research often addresses local and regional issues, providing students with hands-on experience in areas like urban development, environmental science, health disparities, and social justice. Students interested in research can connect with faculty whose work aligns with their interests and inquire about opportunities to assist in labs or research groups. While large-scale, R1-level research might be more concentrated at UW Seattle, UW Tacoma provides valuable, accessible research experiences for undergraduates.

UW Tacoma compares favorably to other regional public universities in Washington and the Pacific Northwest, particularly regarding its urban focus and accessibility. Compared to UW Seattle, UW Tacoma offers smaller class sizes, a more intimate learning environment, and significantly lower in-state tuition. However, UW Seattle generally boasts a broader range of programs, a larger research output, and greater national name recognition. Compared to Washington State University (WSU), UW Tacoma provides a more urban-centric experience, whereas WSU offers a more traditional, residential college-town atmosphere in Pullman. Western Washington University (WWU) in Bellingham offers a strong liberal arts focus and a beautiful campus setting, but UW Tacoma's proximity to the major economic hubs of Seattle and Bellevue provides more direct access to internships and jobs in tech and healthcare. UW Tacoma's key differentiator is its strategic location in the South Sound, its applied learning approach, and its commitment to serving the diverse needs of the Tacoma community, all at a competitive price point for in-state students.

Employers in the Puget Sound region generally hold a positive view of degrees from the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus. As part of the respected University of Washington system, UW Tacoma graduates benefit from the overall brand recognition and academic rigor associated with the UW name. Local employers, particularly those in Tacoma and the surrounding areas, are familiar with UW Tacoma's mission and its focus on preparing students for regional workforce needs. Companies like MultiCare Health System, CHI Franciscan, and local tech firms actively recruit UW Tacoma graduates, recognizing their practical skills and readiness for the job market. The university's emphasis on internships, community engagement, and applied learning means that graduates often possess relevant experience that employers value. While UW Seattle might have broader national recognition, for employers within Washington State, a UW Tacoma degree signifies a well-educated and capable candidate, especially in fields like nursing, business, and technology where the campus has strong program offerings and industry connections.