The Evergreen State College
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#170
Acceptance rate
96.4%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$31,905
In-state $9,264
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
2,276
Student-faculty ratio 17:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
31.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 41.1%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The Evergreen State College, located in Olympia, Washington, is renowned for its unique educational approach and vibrant campus culture. Established in 1967, the college emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and flexible curriculum, allowing students to design their own educational paths and engage deeply with subjects that interest them. This innovative approach encourages creativity and critical thinking, making Evergreen a distinctive place for higher education. The college's guiding principle is to promote a holistic understanding of academic subjects, and its motto, "Think Outside the Box," reflects this ethos.
The campus itself is situated on a picturesque 1,000-acre site, surrounded by lush forests and wetlands, providing a serene environment conducive to learning and personal growth. Students at Evergreen benefit from small class sizes and a close-knit community, fostering strong relationships between faculty and students. The college boasts a diverse array of programs, including environmental studies, arts, and social sciences, aligning with Washington's commitment to sustainability and social justice. In recent years, Evergreen has gained attention for its focus on social equity and environmental stewardship, preparing students to be responsible global citizens. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, students often engage in internships, research projects, and community service, equipping them with practical skills and enhancing their employability after graduation.
Analysis of Key Trends at The Evergreen State College
The Evergreen State College has shown significant changes in several critical areas over the past decade, particularly in tuition rates, student enrollment, and graduation rates.
Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has increased from $8,574 in 2014 to $8,999 in 2024, reflecting a steady rise. In contrast, out-of-state undergraduate tuition surged from $20,661 to $30,980 during the same period, which is a staggering increase of over 50%. This sharp rise in costs may be a contributing factor to the declining enrollment numbers, as the total number of undergraduate students fell from 4,193 in 2013 to just 1,851 in 2023. This trend raises questions about accessibility and affordability, particularly for out-of-state students who face significantly higher tuition fees.
Moreover, the graduation rates have also presented a concerning downward trend. The percentage of students graduating on time (within four years) decreased from approximately 39% in 2015 to only about 35% in 2023. Similarly, the graduation rate within 150% of the expected timeframe has dropped from around 54% to approximately 45% over the same period. These declining graduation rates may indicate underlying issues related to student support and retention, which are crucial for fostering successful educational outcomes.
Additionally, the gender ratio among undergraduates has gradually shifted, with male students decreasing from about 46% in 2013 to approximately 38% by 2023. This shift could suggest changing demographics in student enrollment and raises the need to explore the factors driving these changes, including societal trends and institutional outreach efforts.
In summary, while The Evergreen State College continues to strive for educational excellence, the rising costs, declining enrollment, and decreasing graduation rates highlight significant challenges that need to be addressed to ensure the institution's sustainability and the success of its students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Seattle, about 50 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), about 40 mi
- Also known as
- Evergreen, TESC
- Academic calendar
- Quarter
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- John Carmichael (President)
- Phone
- 3608676170
- City
- Olympia, Washington
- Address
- 2700 Evergreen Pkwy NW, Olympia, WA 98505-0001
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 97.3%, women 98.1%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at The Evergreen State College
The admission data for The Evergreen State College over the years presents a fascinating narrative regarding the institution's selectivity and enrollment dynamics. In the earlier years, particularly from 2009 to 2015, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants were notably high, often exceeding 90%. This indicates that the college maintained an accessible admission policy, allowing a diverse group of students to enroll.
However, a significant shift occurred in 2023, where the acceptance rate plummeted to approximately 68.6% for males and 77.4% for females. This drastic reduction in acceptance rates suggests a tightening of admissions criteria or possibly a significant increase in the number of applicants, which is a trend seen across many institutions in recent years. The rise in competition may be attributed to the growing recognition of the college's academic offerings or changing demographic trends in higher education.
Moreover, the number of students who were denied admission peaked in 2023, with 416 applicants receiving rejection letters, compared to only 26 denials in 2013. This sharp increase in denial rates raises questions about the college's capacity and strategic direction moving forward.
The fluctuations in enrollment numbers also highlight the institution's ability to adapt to changing circumstances. While the enrollment figures varied, the overall trend suggests a commitment to maintaining a robust educational environment.
In conclusion, The Evergreen State College's admission data reflects broader trends in higher education, including increased competitiveness and evolving standards. It will be essential for the college to navigate these changes carefully to sustain its mission of inclusivity while meeting the demands of a changing student population.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 7% submitted SAT, 5% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at The Evergreen State College
The admission test score data from The Evergreen State College reveals significant trends over the years, particularly concerning SAT and ACT performance among applicants. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has shown a decline from 82% in 2007 to only 13% by 2022 and 2023. This drop may reflect broader changes in college admissions practices, including the growing trend of test-optional policies that many institutions have adopted in recent years, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Looking at the scores, the range for SAT reading, for instance, has fluctuated but generally indicates a decrease in the 25th and 75th percentile scores over the years. In 2007, the reading scores ranged between 520 and 650, while in 2023, they dropped to between 510 and 640. Similarly, the math scores have shown a decline, indicating a potential shift in the academic preparedness of incoming students or the changing dynamics of the applicant pool.
The ACT data, though less comprehensive, also suggests a similar trend. The number of students submitting ACT scores has decreased, aligning with the observed decline in SAT participation. This trend may necessitate a reevaluation of how the college assesses applicants and their academic readiness.
In conclusion, these trends highlight the shifting landscape of college admissions and the potential implications for academic standards and diversity in student profiles. As institutions grapple with these changes, ongoing assessments of test scores and their relevance in the admissions process will be crucial for maintaining institutional integrity and academic excellence.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
1,296 applicants in 2025, 96.4% admitted
1,249 admitted 47 not admitted Yield 25.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Public Administration · Master's38 (3% international)
- Teacher Education, Multiple Levels · Master's34 (0% international)
- Environmental Studies · Master's23 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at The Evergreen State College
The graduation data from The Evergreen State College in 2023 reveals some intriguing trends, particularly in the realm of degree completion across various disciplines. Notably, the Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies program stands out with 363 bachelor's degree graduates, indicating a robust interest in this field. This could reflect the broader educational trend towards interdisciplinary studies, which are gaining prominence in today’s job market. As students seek diverse skill sets, programs that emphasize liberal arts may provide a competitive edge.
Conversely, it is striking to observe that several programs, including Public Administration and Teacher Education, reported zero graduates at the bachelor's level. This raises questions about the attractiveness and viability of these fields in the current educational landscape. The lack of graduates may suggest a need for these programs to re-evaluate their curriculum, marketing strategies, or support for prospective students.
Additionally, while the master's and doctorate programs in other fields had some graduates, the absence of international students completing these advanced degrees is noteworthy. This could be indicative of broader immigration policies or global events influencing international student mobility. With the increasing emphasis on global education, schools may need to enhance their support systems for international students to bolster enrollment in these higher-level programs.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of adaptability in academic programs, as well as the necessity of appealing to both domestic and international students in an ever-evolving educational environment.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $31,116 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | $37,923 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | $84,616 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | $65,340 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
Students
2,490 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60 · Freshman retention 69.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,454
- First-year undergraduates 307
- Graduate students 214
- Transfers and others 515
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,276)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at The Evergreen State College for 2023
The student demographics at The Evergreen State College for 2023 reveal a diverse body of students across various classifications. The data indicates that undergraduate freshmen comprise a total of 271 students, with a female representation of 63.5%, significantly higher than that of male students at 36.5%. This trend of higher female enrollment continues among undergraduates, with sophomores and transfer students also showing a majority of female students, indicating a consistent pattern across these categories.
Graduate students, numbering 254, display a similar trend with female students representing 63.4% of the population. The overall gender distribution in these categories suggests not only a strong inclination towards female enrollment but also highlights the shifting dynamics in higher education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
Furthermore, the data reveals an array of ethnic backgrounds among students. The majority of students in each category are identified as white, followed by other ethnic groups. This demographic detail is essential in understanding the racial and cultural makeup of the college, which plays a significant role in shaping the educational environment and student experience.
The presence of international students also contributes to this diversity, emphasizing the college's commitment to inclusivity and global perspectives in education. As we continue to witness changes in student enrollment patterns across the nation, The Evergreen State College exemplifies the growing representation of women and the importance of fostering a multicultural academic community. This aligns with broader national trends towards inclusivity in higher education, which are increasingly relevant in today's society.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at The Evergreen State College
The age distribution among students at The Evergreen State College reveals significant insights into the demographic composition of the student body. The largest group is comprised of students aged 18-21, which is typical for undergraduate institutions. Notably, students aged 18-19 account for approximately 34% of total students, while those aged 20-21 represent about 30%. This trend suggests that the college attracts a younger demographic, which aligns with the general pattern seen in higher education institutions across the United States.
Interestingly, the data indicates a gradual decline in student numbers as age increases. For instance, the combined number of students aged 25-29 represents about 18% of the student population. This decrease could be attributed to various factors, including career commitments and family responsibilities that might deter older individuals from pursuing further education.
Moreover, the representation of female students is noteworthy, particularly in the undergraduate category where they outnumber their male counterparts significantly in younger age groups. For example, in the 18-19 age range, females constitute approximately 66% of total students, highlighting a trend towards gender balance in higher education, though it varies across different age brackets.
The college also accommodates a smaller percentage of non-traditional students, evidenced by the presence of individuals aged 30 and above. This demographic, while less represented, contributes to the diversity of perspectives within the academic environment.
Overall, The Evergreen State College's age demographics reflect broader trends in higher education, with a predominance of younger students, a notable female presence, and an emerging demographic of older learners seeking education later in life. These insights can inform policies and programs aimed at enhancing student engagement and support across various age groups.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
5 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016
1 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at The Evergreen State College
The data from The Evergreen State College reveals significant fluctuations in the enrollment of international students over the years. From 2004 to 2022, the percentage of international undergraduate students has varied, peaking at 0.69% in 2017, while the numbers for graduate students have consistently remained low, with a maximum of only 1.44% in 2004. This trend reflects broader challenges facing U.S. higher education institutions, particularly in attracting international students amid changing immigration policies and global competition.
The decline in overall student enrollment, particularly after 2019, suggests a troubling trend that many colleges and universities are experiencing, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. For instance, the total number of undergraduate students dropped from 4,103 in 2004 to just 1,849 in 2022. This decline in total enrollment has naturally impacted the number of international students, as evidenced by the decrease in the absolute numbers from 26 in 2010 to just 6 in 2022.
The data also raises questions about the university's recruitment strategies and support systems for international students. With the increasing importance of global perspectives in education, it is crucial for institutions like The Evergreen State College to develop proactive strategies to enhance their appeal to a diverse student population. This may include improving integration programs and fostering a welcoming environment for international students, which could ultimately contribute to reversing the downward trend in enrollment. As colleges navigate these challenges, the need for innovative approaches to attract and retain international students has never been more critical.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$46,494
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $31,905
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $9,264
- Room and board
- $14,589
- Graduate tuition
- $29,406
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 40% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 54%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$105M
Expenses$99.1M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Cascade Collegiate Conference
Cascade Collegiate Conference: basketball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 38 | 31 |
| Soccer | 32 | 31 |
| Wrestling | 31 | 23 |
| Basketball | 25 | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 30 | 25 |
| Basketball | 24 | 15 |
| Wrestling | 21 | 14 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 6 | 16 |
| Cross Country | 15 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 26 | 23 |
| Basketball | 25 | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 4 | 13 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Puget SoundTacoma · 26.8 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
Seattle UniversitySeattle · 48.1 mi
U.S. News #179
-
Seattle Pacific UniversitySeattle · 49.2 mi
U.S. News #262
-
University of Washington-Seattle CampusSeattle · 51.0 mi
U.S. News #49
-
Pacific UniversityForest Grove · 107.4 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Portland State UniversityPortland · 108.8 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Reed CollegePortland · 111.3 mi
Liberal Arts #60
-
Lewis & Clark CollegePortland · 113.1 mi
Liberal Arts #97
-
George Fox UniversityNewberg · 122.3 mi
U.S. News #262
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding The Evergreen State College:
-
University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Ranked 40th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is well-known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
University of Puget Sound - This liberal arts college, ranked 89th, is recognized for its small class sizes and personalized education, fostering deep connections between students and faculty.
-
Seattle University - An important player in the region, this comprehensive university ranks 163rd and is noted for its commitment to social justice and community engagement.
-
Reed College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, ranked 67th, Reed is distinguished by its rigorous academics and a unique, student-led curriculum.
-
Gonzaga University - With a ranking of 93rd, this comprehensive university is famed for its strong programs in law and business, and its commitment to service and leadership.
These institutions provide a diverse array of educational opportunities and contribute significantly to the academic landscape of the region.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at The Evergreen State College
The crime data at The Evergreen State College from 2013 to 2023 reveals a notable decline in criminal incidents over the years, particularly in the categories of drug-related arrests, alcohol arrests, and firearm-related incidents. The average crime rate per 1,000 students has steadily decreased from 21.16 in 2013 to 18.24 in 2023, indicating a positive trend in campus safety.
A closer look at the data suggests that the highest recorded rate was in 2015 at 23.23, likely reflecting broader societal issues regarding substance abuse and violence prevalent during that period. However, the consistent decrease in reported incidents, especially from 2018 onwards, may signal effective interventions by campus security and local law enforcement, or perhaps an increasing awareness and preventative measures adopted by the college community.
Interestingly, the data for 2023 shows a slight uptick in the average crime rate to 18.24 from 14.38 in 2021, which may warrant further investigation. Such fluctuations might be influenced by various factors, including changes in campus policies, student population dynamics, or even external societal influences, such as the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, while the downward trend in crime rates is encouraging, continuous efforts are essential to maintain and improve campus safety. Engaging students, enhancing security measures, and fostering a supportive community will be crucial in addressing any potential concerns that may arise in the future. For a deeper understanding of how these crime rates are calculated, more information can be found at this link: crime rate calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 25Notable alumni of The Evergreen State College include Matt Groening (Creator of The Simpsons and Futurama), Michael Richards (Actor best known as Kramer on Seinfeld) and Macklemore (Rapper from Seattle).
-
Matt Groening 1954–
Creator of The Simpsons and Futurama
-
Michael Richards 1949–
Actor best known as Kramer on Seinfeld
-
Macklemore 1983–
Rapper from Seattle
-
Rachel Corrie 1979–2003
Anti-war and human rights activist
-
Kathleen Hanna 1968–
Bikini Kill singer and riot grrrl pioneer
-
Tay Zonday 1982–
YouTube personality and bass singer
-
Carrie Brownstein 1974–
Musician and actress, Sleater-Kinney member
-
Byron Howard 1968–
Disney animation director of Tangled, Zootopia and Encanto
-
Paul Stamets 1955–
Mycologist and entrepreneur
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.