University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
Acceptance rate
82.5%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$43,404
In-state $13,168
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
4,207
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
43.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 54.2%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Washington-Tacoma (UW Tacoma) is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to providing high-quality education and fostering community engagement. Established in 1990, UW Tacoma is a part of the University of Washington system and is located in the vibrant city of Tacoma, Washington. The campus is situated in a historic area, featuring a blend of modern facilities and classic architecture, which creates a unique and inspiring learning environment. With a focus on applied learning, UW Tacoma offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing interdisciplinary studies and real-world applications. This approach equips students with practical skills and experiences that enhance their employability and readiness for the workforce.
The university prides itself on its strong community ties and active campus culture. UW Tacoma encourages students to engage in various extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and athletic programs, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration among its diverse student body. The campus also emphasizes the importance of social responsibility, reflected in its commitment to community service and outreach initiatives. With a dedicated faculty who are experts in their fields, students receive personalized attention and mentorship, which contributes to their academic success. UW Tacoma's commitment to innovation and excellence, combined with its supportive environment, makes it an attractive choice for students seeking a comprehensive and enriching educational experience.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
The University of Washington-Tacoma Campus has exhibited notable trends in tuition, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. Tuition for in-state undergraduate students increased from approximately $11,902 in 2014 to $12,458 in 2023, representing a steady rise of about 4.7%. This trend mirrors a broader national pattern where college costs have consistently outpaced inflation, making higher education increasingly challenging for many families.
On the enrollment front, the number of undergraduate students grew from 3,626 in 2014 to 4,083 in 2023, indicating a positive trend in attracting more learners. However, this increase in student population has not been matched by a proportional increase in graduation rates. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates peaked at 49.5% in 2019 but showed fluctuations thereafter, dropping to around 44.9% in 2023. This inconsistency raises concerns about retention and support for students as they navigate their academic paths.
Additionally, the retention rate, which reflects the percentage of students who continue their studies after their first year, has remained relatively stable, hovering around 75% to 80%. This stability is encouraging, yet it underscores the importance of ongoing support systems to ensure students not only enroll but also successfully complete their degrees.
Finally, the gender ratio among undergraduates has shifted slightly, with the percentage of male students increasing to about 51.7% by 2023, reflecting a growing balance in gender representation. This shift is significant as it mirrors broader societal changes in educational participation.
In summary, while the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus shows promising growth in student enrollment and slight improvements in gender balance, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating graduation rates suggest that there are critical areas that require attention to enhance student success and institutional sustainability.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Seattle, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), about 15 mi
- Also known as
- UWT, UW-T, UW-Tacoma
- Academic calendar
- Quarter
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Sheila Edwards Lange (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 2536924400
- City
- Tacoma, Washington
- Address
- 1900 Commerce St, Tacoma, WA 98402-3100
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 84.9%, women 89.2%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
The admissions data from the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus reveals interesting trends over the years, particularly concerning acceptance rates and enrollment figures. From 2009 to 2023, the acceptance rates for male applicants fluctuated but generally showed a downward trend, indicating a more competitive admissions landscape. For instance, the male acceptance rate dropped from approximately 83% in 2009 to around 87.5% in 2023, suggesting that the university is increasingly selective in its admissions process.
Similarly, the acceptance rate for female applicants mirrored this pattern, starting at about 81.4% in 2009 and rising to around 89.0% in 2023. This improvement may point to the university's efforts to promote gender diversity and inclusivity, aligning with broader trends in higher education where institutions are actively working to balance gender representation.
The enrollment numbers peaked in 2018 with 588 students, reflecting the university's growing appeal. However, the number of applicants being denied admission also increased significantly, particularly in recent years, which could indicate a rising interest in the university. The number of deferred admissions also remained substantial, suggesting that while applicants are keen, some may need more time to make decisions or fulfill requirements.
Overall, these trends may reflect not only the university's commitment to maintaining high academic standards but also the evolving landscape of higher education, where more students compete for limited spots in esteemed institutions. The data suggests that prospective students should be prepared for a competitive application process moving forward.
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
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Business School2 programs—
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
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Data Trends at the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
The admission data from the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus over the years reveals interesting trends regarding standardized test scores and submission rates. Specifically, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has remained relatively high, consistently around 81% to 94% throughout the years, indicating a strong inclination among students to present their standardized test performance as part of their application.
Looking at the SAT reading and math scores, there has been a gradual increase in the range of scores from 2008 to 2023. For instance, the 25th percentile score for SAT reading started at 420 in 2008 and has risen to 480 by 2023. Similarly, the 75th percentile scores have shown a positive trend, suggesting that students applying to the university are achieving higher scores over time. This could reflect a combination of factors, including improved educational resources, better preparation, or a more competitive applicant pool.
Moreover, the number of students submitting SAT scores peaked in 2019 with 603 submissions, while 2021 to 2023 saw a slight decline in both the number of submissions and the percentage of applicants submitting scores. This decline may correlate with the growing trend of colleges adopting test-optional policies, a movement accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, the data suggests that while standardized testing remains a significant component of the admissions process at the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus, the landscape is shifting, and the university may need to adapt its admission strategies in response to changing applicant behaviors and societal trends.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
4,068 applicants in 2025, 82.5% admitted
3,357 admitted 711 not admitted Yield 21.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other · Master's62 (42% international)
- Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance · Master's55 (13% international)
- Information Technology · Master's50 (36% international)
- Social Work · Master's47 (0% international)
- Computer and Information Sciences, General · Master's40 (65% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's19 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Statistics from University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
The graduation statistics from the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus reveal significant trends in academic fields for the year 2023. Notably, psychology stands out with the highest number of graduates at 176, showcasing its popularity among students. This aligns with national trends where psychology remains one of the most pursued degrees, reflecting a growing interest in mental health and well-being.
In contrast, the number of graduates in the fields of business and management is notable, with several programs collectively producing over 200 graduates at the bachelor's and master's levels. This suggests a robust interest in business education, likely fueled by the demand for skills in management and quantitative methods in today's job market. Interestingly, the presence of international students in these programs indicates a global appeal, which is supported by the increasing enrollment of international students in U.S. higher education.
On the engineering front, the graduation figures are modest, with electrical and computer engineering producing a respectable number of graduates, but still less than other fields like psychology and business. This may reflect a broader trend in STEM fields where the number of graduates does not meet the growing demand for tech talent in the workforce.
Moreover, the data highlights a lack of diversity in certain fields, with limited representation in areas such as education and social sciences. This raises questions about accessibility and interest in these disciplines, especially for international students.
Overall, the graduation statistics from the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus not only reflect individual program popularity but also mirror larger educational and workforce trends, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and alignment with market demands in higher education.
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 | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $77,881-$124,247 | |||
| Information Technology. | $77,881-$124,247 | |||
| Computer Science. | $121,837 | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | $105,999 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $54,797-$171,110 | |||
| Accounting. | $70,384 | |||
| Finance, General. | $76,160 | |||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | $121,357 | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $61,306 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $42,125 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services Administration. | $46,462 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $91,541-$129,755 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering, General. | $75,992 | |||
| Computer Engineering, General. | $147,670 | |||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $84,874 | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $79,240 | |||
| Electrical and Computer Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | $42,473 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $42,900-$69,712 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Economics. | $69,514 | |||
| Urban Studies/Affairs. | $44,690 | |||
| Social Sciences, Other. | $41,033 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $43,090-$75,832 | |||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $66,366 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $75,574 | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $75,574 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Police Science. | $48,386 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $47,679 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | $39,767 | |||
| Environmental Science. | $39,767 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $30,753 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Studies. | $48,780 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Writing, General. | $35,700 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | $39,363 | |||
| International/Globalization Studies. | $42,133 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $46,456 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics and Statistics. | $55,838 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| City/Urban, Community, and Regional Planning. | $74,978 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other. | $41,150 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hispanic and Latin American Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General. | $40,305 |
Students
4,965 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 53:47 · Freshman retention 80.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,717
- First-year undergraduates 681
- Graduate students 758
- Transfers and others 809
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,207)
Data insights
Student Demographics at University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
The student composition at the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus in 2023 reveals a diverse and dynamic academic environment. Among the undergraduate newcomers, there are 625 students, with a nearly even gender distribution—50.2% male and 49.8% female. This balance is indicative of the university's commitment to inclusivity and attracting a wide range of applicants.
The returning undergraduate students make up a significant portion of the student body, totaling 2,784 individuals. The gender ratios among these students slightly favor males, with 52% of the students being male and 48% female. This trend continues with the transfer students, where the male population stands at 52.1%, compared to 47.9% female students.
In contrast, the graduate student demographic shows a notable shift, with 711 students enrolled, of which only 41.8% are male and a significant 58.2% are female. This higher representation of female graduate students aligns with national trends in higher education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
Furthermore, the data highlights an important aspect of diversity within the student body, although specific figures regarding race and ethnicity were not provided for all categories. The representation of various ethnic groups is essential in fostering a rich educational experience, and the university appears to reflect this through its various programs and initiatives aimed at supporting all students.
Overall, the demographics at the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus illustrate a growing and inclusive academic community, with a commitment to gender balance and diversity among its students.
Age Composition of Students at the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
The age distribution of students at the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the student body. Notably, the largest group of undergraduate males is in the 18-19 age range, comprising approximately 42% of the total male undergraduates. This trend is mirrored among female undergraduates, where the same age group constitutes about 46% of female students.
As students progress in age, there is a noticeable decline in the number of undergraduates, particularly in the 22-24 and 25-29 age categories. The figures suggest that many students are entering college at a traditional age and may be transitioning into graduate studies by their mid-20s. This is consistent with national trends where younger students dominate undergraduate enrollment, while older students are increasingly pursuing graduate degrees.
The data also indicates a healthy representation of graduate students, especially in the 25-29 age range, where female graduate students outnumber their male counterparts, accounting for 68% of that group. This shift highlights the growing participation of women in higher education, a trend that has been observed across the United States.
Interestingly, the number of students over the age of 50 remains quite low, with only about 3% of the total student population. This may suggest barriers such as financial constraints or the challenge of balancing education with other life responsibilities.
Overall, the age composition at the University of Washington-Tacoma reflects broader educational trends, with significant enrollment among traditional-age students while also showcasing a commitment to supporting adult learners through graduate programs.
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.
73 in 2025 · 5.2% in 2016
135 in 2025 · 15.6% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
The data from the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus reveals significant trends in international student enrollment over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the total number of undergraduate students rose from 1,593 to 4,083, reflecting a growing interest in the institution. However, the proportion of international undergraduate students has fluctuated, peaking at 5.18% in 2016 before declining to 1.91% in 2023. This decrease may indicate challenges faced by international students in recent years, possibly due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and changing immigration policies.
On the graduate level, the representation of international students has demonstrated a more consistent upward trajectory. In 2004, only 0.24% of graduate students were international, but by 2023, that figure had risen to 18.42%. This remarkable increase suggests that the university has become increasingly attractive to graduate students from abroad, potentially due to enhanced program offerings or favorable research opportunities.
The contrasting trends in undergraduate and graduate international enrollment highlight the complexities of attracting international students in different academic contexts. As institutions worldwide continue to adapt to changing global circumstances, the experiences of international students will remain a vital area of focus. The University of Washington-Tacoma Campus's evolving demographics mirror broader trends in higher education, where institutions must navigate both challenges and opportunities in a globalized world.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$59,775
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $43,404
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $13,168
- Room and board
- $16,371
- Graduate tuition
- $33,006
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 27% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 51%.
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 NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Puget SoundTacoma · 2.3 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
Seattle UniversitySeattle · 25.8 mi
U.S. News #179
-
Seattle Pacific UniversitySeattle · 28.3 mi
U.S. News #262
-
University of Washington-Seattle CampusSeattle · 29.1 mi
U.S. News #49
-
Portland State UniversityPortland · 120.3 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Reed CollegePortland · 122.2 mi
Liberal Arts #60
-
Pacific UniversityForest Grove · 123.3 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Lewis & Clark CollegePortland · 124.4 mi
Liberal Arts #97
-
George Fox UniversityNewberg · 136.5 mi
U.S. News #262
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus:
-
University of Puget Sound (普吉特湾大学) - Ranked 89th in 2024, this liberal arts college is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.
-
Seattle University (西雅图大学) - With a 2024 ranking of 163, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a strong emphasis on social justice.
-
Reed College (里德学院) - This highly regarded liberal arts college ranks 67th in 2024 and is known for its challenging curriculum and a distinctive focus on independent study.
-
Whitman College (惠特曼学院) - Ranked 46th in 2024, Whitman is a selective liberal arts college celebrated for its academic excellence and beautiful campus.
-
University of Oregon (俄勒冈大学) - With a 2024 ranking of 98, this comprehensive university offers a wide array of programs and is recognized for its research initiatives.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-respected in their respective fields.
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 University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
The crime data from the University of Washington-Tacoma Campus over the years reveals significant fluctuations in the crime rates per 1,000 students. Notably, the highest recorded rates occurred in 2013 and 2014, with averages of 7.50 and 7.17, respectively. These figures indicate a concerning level of criminal activity during those years. However, following this peak, there was a marked decline in the crime rate, reaching a low of 1.13 in 2016, suggesting that factors such as improved campus security measures or changes in student behavior might have contributed to this drop.
As the years progressed, the crime rates exhibited some volatility but generally remained lower than the early years, with a notable increase again in 2023, where the rate climbed to 4.01. This rise should be carefully monitored, as it could indicate emerging trends in campus safety and security concerns among students.
Analyzing the specific types of crime reveals that gun-related arrests have been present over the years, alongside issues related to drug and alcohol offenses. The presence of violent crime indicators such as domestic violence and assault also raises red flags about student safety and campus culture.
In conclusion, while the overall trend shows a significant reduction in crime rates, the resurgence in 2023 warrants a proactive approach to ensure the well-being of students and to maintain a safe campus environment. Continuous evaluation and strategic interventions will be crucial in addressing these safety concerns. For those interested in understanding the methodology behind crime rate calculations, more information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation Methodology.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of Washington-Tacoma Campus include Eric Barone (Video game developer known as ConcernedApe), Pat McCarthy (11th Washington State Auditor) and Dawn Morrell (Washington state representative and nurse).
-
Eric Barone 1987–
Video game developer known as ConcernedApe
-
Pat McCarthy
11th Washington State Auditor
-
Dawn Morrell 1949–
Washington state representative and nurse
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.