Your guide to Seattle Pacific University in one place
Founded in 1891 as an independent institution of higher learning within the Free Methodist Denomination, Seattle Pacific University (SPU), located in Seattle, Washington, United States, serves students seeking an education rooted in Christianity. Initially founded in Seattle, it transformed into a vast institution. By providing education at various levels, including undergraduates, graduates, and professionals, through integrating scholarly knowledge with ethical considerations for serving others.
Situated within an expansive 43-acre urban setting on Queen Anne Hill in Seattle, Seattle Pacific University integrates classic liberal arts education seamlessly alongside practical courses, educating around 2,100 learners through various academic divisions, including colleges and theological studies. The organization's goals encompass both intellectual development and spiritual and ethical growth of its learners. The following are the key details you should know about the university :
SPU holds an esteemed position alongside other American institutions of higher learning, frequently recognized for its robust undergraduate offerings across various fields such as engineering and nursing. It is also celebrated as a prominent Christian university within the Pacific Northwest region.
Seattle Pacific University Ranking:
The Seattle Pacific University acceptance rate is relatively high, around 83-91%, making admission accessible. Admission decisions consider GPA, transcripts, and recommendations, with test scores optional in many cases.
| Admission Metric | Key Data |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | ~83–91% (moderately selective) |
| Total Applicants | ~2,885 per year |
| Students Admitted | ~2,406 |
| Students Enrolled (First-Year) | ~379 |
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Average High School GPA | ~3.3 |
| SAT Middle Range | ~1050–1320 |
| ACT Middle Range | ~20–28 |
The Seattle Pacific University campus is situated between the Queen Anne and Fremont districts, located approximately 4 miles northwest of downtown Seattle, offering both picturesque landscapes and an active urban atmosphere. This property has an expansive area of 43 acres, which features historical structures, communal areas, and educational amenities designed to create a close neighborhood atmosphere. At SPU, campus experiences integrate faith-based principles alongside educational pursuits. Young people engage in religious gatherings, teams, athletic competition, community projects, and art activities, achieving both personal development and group participation.
SPU offers campus accommodations through five residential buildings named after places like Ashton Hall, Emerson Hall, and Hill Hall, along with various apartment-type dwellings. Residence halls provide diverse living options along with communal amenities such as dining plans, recreational areas, and scheduled gatherings designed for fostering student interaction within an inclusive campus setting. Students can choose nearby student housing options through amber, which offers convenient access to SPU. Before moving, check the complete breakdown of the cost of living in Seattle for students to estimate monthly rent, transportation, and lifestyle expenses.
Check out the following listings of student housing near SPU:
1. Alta Studios: Modern studio apartments with easy access to campus. From $1069/month
2. Twelve At U District: student housing with shared units from $704/month
3. Hub U District: student residence with shared apartments and modern amenities From $859/month
4. Bridges At 11th: student apartment with fitness facilities and community lounges. From $874/month
5. The Grey House: Co-living style student apartments From $900/month
The school of Professional Studies provides diverse bachelor's and master's courses distributed in three academic divisions: Applied Science and Natural Resources, Business Administration and Information Technologies, as well as Theological studies at the SPU seminary. Additionally, SPU offers various undergraduate initiatives, international education experiences through exchange programs, and an academically rigorous general studies framework designed to enhance students' intellectual growth and their individualized learning paths.
| Level | Popular Programs |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Business, Computer Science, Engineering, Psychology, Nursing, Biology, Finance |
| Graduate | MBA, Data Science, Engineering, Law (JD), Nursing (MSN), Education |
| Doctoral | Law (JD), Nursing Practice (DNP), Leadership & Education PhD |
SPU focuses on preparing students for careers by offering mentoring initiatives, internships, and guidance services. Around 89% recent college students secure employment or continue their education immediately after earning their degrees. The placement of SPU within an urban area is close to tech companies, medical facilities, and educational institute which enables students to discover job opportunities and connections during their academic years.
| Career Metric | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Career Services | Resume help, career counseling, and interview preparation |
| Internship Support | Strong internship and experiential learning programs |
| Job Placement | High employment or grad school placement within 6 months of graduation |
| Employer Connections | Partnerships with local and global companies |
| Alumni Network | Active alumni network supporting mentoring and job opportunities |
Seattle Pacific University cost varies by program for undergraduates, ranging roughly between $39,500 and $41,200, and post-graduate fees average around $20,910 per year.
| Category | Key Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | ~$43,452 per year |
| Room & Board (On-Campus) | ~$16,491 per year |
| Total Estimated Cost of Attendance | ~$65,626 per year |
SPU Financial Aids:
1. Most students receive scholarships or grants to reduce tuition costs.
2. Merit-based scholarships are awarded automatically to strong academic students.
3. Need-based aid, federal loans, and special scholarships (ROTC, donor, church awards) are available.
Check out some of the most well-known alumni of Seattle Pacific University listed here:
Founded in 1891 as Seattle Pacific College by conservative Christians, this institution has become an esteemed private educational entity. And is renowned for its commitment to both intellectual rigor and moral integrity. Strong local credentials, such as its academic excellence, student experience, job assistance programs, and religious commitment, attract those interested in high-quality learning within city environments blended by moral principles.
Seattle Pacific University has been ranked as a “Best National University “by U.S News and World Report. Its is a private Christian university that is well known for quality education and strong academics in Business, nursing, and psychology
Seattle Pacific University is a private and non-profit university.
Seattle Pacific University tuition is around USD 43,000, and the total cost with housing and other expenses can reach USD 60,000-65,000 per year.
No, it is moderately selective with an acceptance rate of around 83-91%
SPU is known for Business, Nursing, Psychology, Education, and Engineering programs.