Washington State University (WSU) is a prominent public research university located in Pullman, Washington. Established in 1890, WSU has grown into a leading institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation. The university's motto, "Lux et Veritas," which translates to "Light and Truth," reflects its dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and the promotion of a well-rounded education. With a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, WSU offers over 200 fields of study, including strong programs in engineering, business, agriculture, and health sciences, catering to a broad spectrum of student interests.

The university's campus boasts modern facilities and resources that enhance the student experience. The WSU library is one of the largest in the Pacific Northwest, providing extensive research materials and study spaces. Additionally, WSU is known for its vibrant campus culture, which includes numerous student organizations, clubs, and events that foster community engagement and leadership development. The athletic programs at WSU, particularly in football and basketball, create a spirited environment, and the school spirit is palpable during game days. Furthermore, WSU has a strong commitment to sustainability, with various initiatives aimed at promoting environmental stewardship on campus. As a result, Washington State University not only prepares its students for successful careers but also nurtures a sense of responsibility toward their communities and the world.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Washington State University

Washington State University, as a public institution, has shown notable trends in tuition, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates over recent years. One significant observation is the steady increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, in-state tuition has risen from $12,327 to $12,997, while out-of-state tuition has surged from $25,409 to a projected $29,073. This continuous rise in tuition could pose challenges for prospective students and their families, potentially impacting enrollment decisions.

In terms of student enrollment, the total number of undergraduate students peaked at 26,098 in 2019 before declining to 22,612 by 2023. This decrease might correlate with rising tuition costs and could influence the university's financial sustainability and diversity.

Moreover, the graduation rates have shown a concerning trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students has hovered around 36% to 41% in recent years, with a slight decline observed in 2023 at 36.58%. The 150% graduation rate also reflects a similar pattern, suggesting that many students may struggle to complete their degrees in a timely manner, possibly due to financial pressures or academic challenges.

Lastly, the retention rates have been relatively stable, remaining around 80% over the years. This indicates that once students enroll, they are generally satisfied with their experience, although the declining enrollment figures might suggest that fewer students are choosing to attend in the first place.

Overall, while Washington State University maintains a solid retention rate, the increasing tuition and declining enrollment figures raise questions about the institution's accessibility and long-term viability. Addressing these issues could be critical for the university's future success and for attracting a diverse student body.

Analysis of Graduate Numbers at Washington State University

The graduate data from Washington State University highlights significant trends across various disciplines for the year 2023. Notably, the field of Social Sciences, General produced the highest number of bachelor's degree graduates, with 233 students, suggesting a robust interest in social science-related fields. This aligns with national trends, as social sciences often attract students interested in understanding societal dynamics, particularly in a post-pandemic world seeking to address social issues.

In contrast, Veterinary Medicine stands out with a substantial output of 128 doctoral graduates, indicating a strong emphasis on advanced studies in health sciences. This may reflect the increasing demand for veterinary services and the importance of animal health in public health discussions, especially following global health challenges. The absence of bachelor and master graduates in this field further emphasizes the specialization of veterinary studies at the doctoral level.

Interestingly, there is a modest representation of international students in these programs, particularly in bachelor-level studies, which shows a mere 2.6% of the total graduates in Social Sciences being international students. This low percentage might point to barriers in access for international students or a preference for local applicants in certain disciplines.

Overall, the data reflects diverse graduate outputs across various fields, highlighting both the popularity of certain disciplines and the need for continued support for international student participation in higher education, particularly in a globally interconnected society.

Analysis of Washington State University's Admission Trends

Washington State University has experienced a notable decline in its national ranking over the years, with the latest ranking for 2025 being 189. This marks a significant drop from previous years, indicating a potential challenge in maintaining its academic reputation and attracting prospective students. The admission rates for both male and female applicants have shown fluctuations, with males having an acceptance rate of approximately 77.6% in 2021 and females at around 81.6%. The data suggests that the university has been relatively inclusive, yet the overall number of enrolled students has varied considerably. For instance, the enrollment peaked at 5,164 in 2019, but saw a decrease in subsequent years, likely influenced by the changing dynamics in higher education, especially post-pandemic. Moreover, the number of denied applicants has remained high, with over 6,000 denials in 2017, reflecting a competitive admission process. The number of deferred admissions also points to a strategic approach in managing student intake, as the university navigates its capacity and resources. As the educational landscape evolves, Washington State University must address these trends proactively. By enhancing its academic offerings, improving student support services, and effectively marketing its strengths, the institution can work towards reversing its ranking decline and ensuring a more favorable admission landscape in the future. The insights from the past years serve as a crucial guide for strategic planning and positioning in the competitive realm of higher education.

Trends in Admission Test Scores at Washington State University

The data from Washington State University reveals intriguing insights into the trends surrounding SAT and ACT scores over the years from 2007 to 2023. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a high of 95% in 2007 and a gradual decline to 83% in recent years. This decline raises questions about the increasing number of students opting for alternative assessment methods or possibly not submitting scores at all, reflecting broader national trends where standardized testing is increasingly scrutinized.

In terms of SAT scores, the range for the 25th percentile to the 75th percentile has shown some variability. For instance, the reading scores have shifted from a start of 480 and an end of 590 in 2007 to a consistent range of 510 to 610 in recent years. This suggests that while more students are being admitted, the competition remains intense with expectations for higher scores.

The ACT scores tell a similar story. Although specific ACT score data is not provided in the summary, it is evident that the overall performance metrics have remained competitive. The consistent number of applicants, peaking at 4,411 in 2019, indicates a robust interest in Washington State University, even as testing policies evolve.

Overall, this data reflects a shift in both applicant behavior and academic expectations, mirroring national conversations about the role of standardized testing in college admissions. The decline in submission rates combined with rising score ranges suggests a potential re-evaluation of the admissions process, aimed at fostering a more inclusive and equitable approach to evaluating students' potential.

Student Demographics at Washington State University in 2023

The demographic data of students at Washington State University for 2023 reveals a diverse and predominantly female student body. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is approximately 3,991, with males constituting 47.3% and females 52.7%. This slight female majority is consistent across the categories, where the proportion of women remains higher than men in upperclassmen and transfer students as well.

The total undergraduate population, including upperclassmen and transfer students, reflects a similar trend. For upperclassmen, the count is around 16,264, with a gender ratio of 47% male to 53% female. Transfer students also show a comparable distribution with 2,010 students, where 46.3% are male and 53.7% are female.

Graduate students, numbering about 4,927, have an even more pronounced gender imbalance, with 42.5% being male and 57.5% female. This trend of women outnumbering men is increasingly prevalent in higher education, particularly at research institutions, as more women pursue advanced degrees.

Additionally, the data reveals insights into the racial composition of students, although specific details for 2023 are limited. In previous years, a significant proportion of students were identified as White, with notable representation from various ethnic backgrounds. Understanding these demographics is crucial for addressing equity and inclusion within the university environment. The trends observed align with broader national patterns in higher education, where female enrollment has steadily increased, highlighting the ongoing evolution of educational landscapes.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Washington State University

The age distribution of students at Washington State University reveals significant trends in enrollment across various age categories. The largest demographic group is comprised of students aged 18 to 21, which collectively accounts for an impressive 61.5% of the total male student population and 65.6% of the female student population. This trend aligns with national higher education statistics, where traditional college-aged students (18-24 years) represent a substantial portion of university enrollments.

Notably, the number of undergraduate students in the age range of 18-21 significantly outweighs those in older age brackets, indicating a strong preference for younger learners pursuing their first degrees. Conversely, the 25-29 age group, which often includes those returning to education or pursuing advanced degrees, accounts for about 7.2% of male and 9.6% of female students.

The representation of older students (30 and above) remains relatively low, with only 4.2% of male and 3.7% of female students being in the 30-34 age group, and even fewer in the 35-39 and older categories. This trend may suggest barriers to entry for older students, such as financial constraints or commitments outside of academia.

Interestingly, while the younger demographic dominates, there is a noteworthy presence of graduate students in the 22-24 age range, hinting at a transition towards advanced studies shortly after completing undergraduate programs. Overall, this age composition highlights a youthful campus environment at Washington State University, reflective of broader trends in the higher education landscape.

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Washington State University

The data reflecting international student enrollment at Washington State University over the years indicates notable fluctuations in both undergraduate and graduate populations. Starting from 2004, the proportion of international undergraduates was relatively low, with 3.58% of the total undergraduate population. This figure showed a steady increase over the years, peaking at 4.90% in 2016, before witnessing a decline in subsequent years.

In contrast, the percentage of international graduate students has remained consistently higher than that of undergraduates, starting at 17.81% in 2004 and experiencing a notable increase to 21.23% in 2019. This trend suggests that Washington State University has become an attractive destination for graduate students from abroad, possibly due to its research opportunities and diverse academic programs.

However, recent years have reflected a concerning downturn in international enrollment. By 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates dropped to 3.25%, while the graduate percentage also fell to 16.01%. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including the global pandemic, changes in immigration policies, and increased competition from other institutions worldwide.

The data underscores the importance of addressing these challenges to sustain and enhance the international student experience at Washington State University. As the landscape of international education continues to evolve, the university may need to implement strategic initiatives to attract a diverse body of international students, ensuring a vibrant academic environment that benefits all students.

Here are some prominent universities near Washington State University:

1. University of Idaho - Ranked 179 in the 2025 US News rankings, it is a comprehensive university known for its research programs and a strong emphasis on agriculture and engineering.

2. Gonzaga University - This comprehensive university is ranked 98 and is known for its strong liberal arts education, as well as its successful basketball program.

3. Whitman College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, ranked 53, Whitman College offers a personalized education with a focus on critical thinking and writing.

4. Seattle University - With a ranking of 152, this comprehensive university is known for its commitment to social justice and community engagement.

5. University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Ranked 46, this major research university is recognized globally for its programs in medicine, engineering, and environmental science.

6. Reed College - Ranked 63, this liberal arts college is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus culture, emphasizing independent learning.

7. Oregon State University - With a rank of 144, this comprehensive university is recognized for its research initiatives and diverse academic programs.

These institutions offer a range of educational opportunities and contribute to the vibrant academic landscape surrounding Washington State University.

Analysis of Crime Trends at Washington State University

The data from Washington State University reveals a significant downward trend in the crime rate over the past decade. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students was a staggering 25.17, which has drastically decreased to just 5.82 by 2023. This represents a reduction of over 77% in reported crimes, indicating a substantial improvement in campus safety.

Specifically, the most prominent decline can be seen in gun-related arrests, which were notably high in earlier years but have seen a marked decrease in recent times. For example, in 2013, there were multiple incidents that contributed to the higher crime rates, whereas recent years have shown fewer occurrences. Similarly, arrests related to drug and alcohol offenses have also seen a downward trend, reflecting possibly effective preventive measures and education programs initiated by the university.

This positive trend is encouraging and suggests that the university has implemented successful strategies to enhance student safety. However, incidents such as domestic violence and stalking, while reduced, still warrant attention. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures will be essential to maintain and further improve campus safety.

The decline in crime rates at Washington State University aligns with broader national trends in decreasing campus crime, as many institutions are actively working to create safer environments for their students. As we assess these statistics, it is crucial to remember that safety is a collective responsibility, and ongoing efforts from both the university and its student body will play a vital role in sustaining these improvements.

For more information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.