Walla Walla University
Tuition per year
$34,227
$45,060 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,313
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
30.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 62.4%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Walla Walla University, located in the picturesque Walla Walla Valley of Washington State, is a private Christian institution that offers a unique blend of academic excellence and a nurturing spiritual environment. Established in 1892, the university is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church and emphasizes the integration of faith and learning. The university’s mission is to pursue a holistic educational experience that equips students to serve their communities and the world. The campus is known for its beautiful scenery, featuring lush green spaces and modern facilities, creating an inviting and inspiring atmosphere for learning.
One of the university's defining characteristics is its commitment to a well-rounded education that extends beyond academics. Walla Walla University offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including health sciences, business, education, and the arts. The faculty-to-student ratio is favorable, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship. Additionally, the university promotes a vibrant campus life with numerous extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and community service, fostering a strong sense of belonging among students. Graduates of Walla Walla University are well-prepared for their careers, with many finding successful placements in various industries, thanks to the university’s strong emphasis on practical skills and community engagement. Overall, Walla Walla University stands out as an institution that not only prioritizes academic achievement but also nurtures spiritual growth and personal development.
Tuition Trends and Student Dynamics at Walla Walla University
The tuition fees at Walla Walla University, a private institution, have shown a consistent upward trend over the years. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition has increased from $25,377 to $33,027, marking a rise of approximately 30%. Such increases in tuition can significantly impact student enrollment and affordability, especially in the context of rising student loan debt across the country. As tuition rises, prospective students may seek more affordable alternatives, potentially affecting the university's enrollment figures.
In conjunction with rising tuition, the student population has exhibited a downward trend. The number of undergraduate students fell from 1,710 in 2013 to just 1,300 in 2023, revealing a decline of about 24%. This drop in enrollment is alarming and may correlate with the increasing financial burden placed on students. Furthermore, the retention rate has held relatively steady, hovering around 77% to 86% over the years, implying that while students may remain enrolled once they start, fewer are choosing to begin their studies at the institution.
Additionally, graduation rates have shown a mixed pattern. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates improved from approximately 23.6% in 2013 to 30.7% in 2023. This increase indicates that the university has potentially become more effective in supporting students to graduate on time. However, the overall declining enrollment juxtaposed with improving graduation rates raises questions about the long-term viability of the institution if fewer students are enrolling in the first place.
In summary, while Walla Walla University is making strides in improving graduation rates, the concurrent rise in tuition and decrease in student enrollment presents significant challenges. The institution must address these issues to ensure sustainable growth and accessibility for future students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a small city
- Nearest major city
- Spokane, about 120 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Spokane International Airport (GEG), about 120 mi
- Also known as
- Walla Walla College
- Academic calendar
- Quarter
- Religious affiliation
- Seventh Day Adventist
- President
- Alex Bryan (President)
- Phone
- 5095272615
- City
- College Place, Washington
- Address
- 204 S College Ave, College Place, WA 99324-1198
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
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 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
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Social Work · Master's57 (2% international)
- Social Work · Doctoral6 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's2 (0% international)
- Reading Teacher Education · Master's2 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's1 (0% international)
- Biology/Biological Sciences, General · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Walla Walla University
The graduation data from Walla Walla University reveals some intriguing insights into its academic offerings and the demographics of its graduates. Notably, the field of Registered Nursing stands out with 61 graduates, indicating a strong focus on healthcare, a sector that continues to grow in demand. This trend is aligned with the increasing need for healthcare professionals across the globe, particularly in light of the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Business Administration also shows a significant presence with 42 graduates, including 4 international students. This reflects a robust interest in business education, likely fueled by an ever-evolving global economy. The inclusion of international students in this program demonstrates the university's appeal to a diverse student body, which is crucial for fostering a global perspective in business practices.
Interestingly, the engineering disciplines, represented by Mechanical, Civil, and Electrical Engineering, have a modest number of graduates, with each field yielding between 6 to 19 graduates. This may suggest a competitive landscape in engineering education, where students are increasingly drawn to specialized fields like Computer Science, which has produced 13 graduates.
Moreover, the data shows a notable lack of graduate programs in fields such as Psychology and Education, with few graduates reported at the master's level. This could indicate either a strategic focus on undergraduate education or a potential area for growth in graduate offerings.
In summary, Walla Walla University's graduation data paints a picture of a well-rounded institution with strong emphasis on healthcare and business, alongside a growing interest in technology and specialized fields, while highlighting opportunities to enhance its graduate programs in other disciplines.
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 | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $57,378 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $48,285 | ||||
| Accounting. | - | ||||
| Finance, General. | - | ||||
| Management Science. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | - | ||||
| Dental Services and Allied Professions, Other. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $98,058 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering, General. | - | ||||
| Computer Engineering, General. | - | ||||
| Mechanical Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||||
| Forensic Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | - | ||||
| Reading Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial and Product Design. | $42,982 | ||||
| Graphic Design. | $42,982 | ||||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | ||||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - | ||||
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - | ||||
| Public Relations/Image Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - | ||||
| Pastoral Studies/Counseling. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airline/Commercial/Professional Pilot and Flight Crew. | - | ||||
| Aviation/Airway Management and Operations. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technology/Technician, General. | - | ||||
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $68,264 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Creative Writing. | - | ||||
| General Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
1,426 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 51:49 · Freshman retention 84.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 872
- First-year undergraduates 326
- Graduate students 113
- Transfers and others 115
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,313)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Walla Walla University in 2023
The student body at Walla Walla University in 2023 showcases a diverse mix of undergraduate and graduate students. Among the first-year undergraduate students, there are 296 individuals, with a notable male representation of 57.8% and females at 42.2%. This male-dominant trend contrasts sharply with the undergraduate seniors, where the gender ratio is nearly balanced, with males at 49.6% and females at 50.4%. This shift may reflect changing societal norms and increased inclusivity within higher education.
Transfer students present a different dynamic, with 61 individuals enrolled, where females constitute a higher percentage at 57.4% compared to 42.6% for males. This suggests that women are increasingly seeking opportunities to transfer and continue their education at Walla Walla University.
In the graduate category, the gender disparity is even more pronounced, with only 21.2% male representation and a staggering 78.8% female representation. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating a growing enrollment of women in graduate programs across the U.S., driven by initiatives aimed at empowering women in higher education.
The breakdown of student demographics by ethnicity reveals a rich tapestry of cultural backgrounds, with a substantial number of white students present, alongside significant representation from other ethnic groups. As universities continue to prioritize diversity and inclusion, these statistics are essential in understanding the evolving landscape of student demographics, reflecting broader societal changes and the ongoing efforts to create equitable educational opportunities for all.
Demographic Insights at Walla Walla University
The 2023 student age composition data from Walla Walla University reveals interesting trends in the demographics of its student body. Notably, the largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, comprising 250 males and 209 females, which highlights the university's appeal to traditional college-age students. This age group represents approximately 36.3% of the total male population and 31.7% of the female population, suggesting that Walla Walla University effectively attracts recent high school graduates.
As we look at older age brackets, there is a noticeable decline in enrollment. For instance, only 14 males and 16 females are in the 25-29 age range, which is about 2.1% of the total male and 4.7% of the total female student body. This trend may reflect the broader national patterns of younger individuals pursuing higher education while older demographics may be engaged in the workforce or other life commitments.
Interestingly, the presence of graduate students is minimal, particularly in the younger categories, with a slight increase in the 22-24 age range. However, the data shows a more balanced gender distribution among graduate students aged 30-34, indicating that older students are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
Overall, Walla Walla University's data showcases a predominance of younger undergraduates, with a gradual tapering off in numbers as age increases, reflecting a common trend in higher education institutions across the country. The university's focus on attracting traditional students seems to be successful, but there may be opportunities to enhance offerings for non-traditional and older students, potentially expanding their academic reach and diversity.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
140 in 2025 · 0.7% in 2016
5 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Walla Walla University
The data on international student enrollment at Walla Walla University reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in the undergraduate sector. From 2005 to 2023, the proportion of international undergraduate students has steadily increased, culminating in a peak of 7.33% in 2020. This growth reflects a broader trend in U.S. higher education, where many institutions have been actively seeking to diversify their student body by attracting international talent.
Notably, the number of international graduate students has remained relatively low in comparison, with a maximum representation of just 11.26% in 2014. This disparity points to a potentially underutilized resource for the university, as a diverse graduate population can enrich academic discourse and foster innovative research collaborations.
The fluctuations in total enrollment numbers should also be considered within the context of global events. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic likely contributed to the decline in overall student numbers in 2021 and 2022, as many institutions faced challenges in international recruitment and student mobility. The data shows a slight recovery in 2023, but the overall figures remain concerning—indicating that Walla Walla University may need to enhance its outreach strategies to attract both undergraduate and graduate international students.
Ultimately, fostering a more inclusive and diverse student environment should be a priority for Walla Walla University, as this not only enriches the academic experience but also prepares all students for a globalized workforce.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$45,060
- Undergraduate tuition
- $34,227
- Room and board
- $10,833
- Graduate tuition
- $28,446
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 30% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 58%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$56.1M
Expenses$50.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private 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 II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 33 | 21 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 17 |
| Basketball | 17 | 12 |
| Golf | 12 | 10 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 11 |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 16 | 16 |
| Soccer | 28 | - |
| Cross Country | 7 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 8 | 6 |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 15 | 9 |
| Soccer | 23 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Golf | 9 | 4 |
| Cross Country | 6 | 3 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Whitman CollegeWalla Walla · 3.2 mi
Liberal Arts #78
-
Washington State UniversityPullman · 75.3 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of IdahoMoscow · 80.6 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Gonzaga UniversitySpokane · 121.2 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Boise State UniversityBoise · 200.0 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Reed CollegePortland · 208.1 mi
Liberal Arts #60
-
Portland State UniversityPortland · 210.3 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Lewis & Clark CollegePortland · 210.4 mi
Liberal Arts #97
-
University of Puget SoundTacoma · 211.3 mi
Liberal Arts #100
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Walla Walla University, along with their rankings and types:
-
Whitman College - Ranked 46th in the 2024 US News rankings, Whitman College is a liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and a vibrant campus community.
-
Washington State University - With a ranking of 178, Washington State University is a comprehensive university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, known for its research initiatives and diverse student body.
-
University of Idaho - Ranked 185th, the University of Idaho is a comprehensive university that provides a variety of academic programs and is recognized for its contributions to research and community service.
-
Gonzaga University - Gonzaga University holds the 93rd position in the rankings. This comprehensive university is renowned for its strong programs in law, business, and education, along with a commitment to social justice.
-
Reed College - At 67th in the rankings, Reed College is a private liberal arts college noted for its rigorous academics and a strong focus on independent study and critical thinking.
-
Lewis & Clark College - This liberal arts college is ranked 93rd and is known for its beautiful campus and commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
-
University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Ranked 40th, this comprehensive university is one of the oldest universities on the West Coast and is known for its strong research programs and diverse academic offerings.
These institutions offer a range of educational opportunities and are highly regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private 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
Crime Trends at Walla Walla University: A Decade of Data
The crime statistics at Walla Walla University over the past decade present a mixed picture of campus safety. The data reveals fluctuations in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students, indicating that while some years have seen a significant increase in certain types of crime, others show a marked decline. For instance, the year 2017 recorded the highest crime rate at 6.86 incidents per 1,000 students, while 2020 saw a decrease to 2.51. This drop may correlate with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many students to vacate campus facilities and engage in remote learning.
When analyzing specific offenses, gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents have been noteworthy areas of concern. The university recorded a substantial number of arrests related to drugs in several years, suggesting that substance abuse remains a critical issue among the student population. It is also important to highlight that the rates of violent crimes, such as domestic violence and assault, have been relatively low, which is a positive sign for campus safety.
Overall, while there are periodic spikes in crime rates, the data indicates a general trend toward improved safety, particularly in recent years. It is essential for the university to continue implementing preventive measures and support systems to maintain and enhance campus security. As the landscape of college life evolves, staying vigilant and responsive to emerging issues will be crucial in safeguarding the wellbeing of all students. For more information on how crime rates are calculated, visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Walla Walla University include Pamela C. Rasmussen (Ornithologist and expert on Asian birds), Jeri Ellsworth (Entrepreneur and self-taught chip designer) and Charles Scriven (Theologian, former president of Kettering College).
-
Pamela C. Rasmussen 1959–
Ornithologist and expert on Asian birds
-
Jeri Ellsworth 1974–
Entrepreneur and self-taught chip designer
-
Charles Scriven 1945–
Theologian, former president of Kettering College
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.