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Studying a Postgrad Program in Washington
Washington – not to be confused with Washington DC – is known as the Evergreen state, with stunning natural environment, and although it is known for its cold, rainy weather (which in fact covers only half of the state), it is an employer hotspot, hosting big companies such as Amazon, Microsoft and Starbucks, as well as numerous startups. With a population of just over seven million, it is well populated but certainly not crowded, and its popularity is on the rise.
Where can you study a postgrad program In Washington?
Seattle is probably your most likely destination if you’re planning on studying your masters degree or PhD program in Washington state, as there are many universities and colleges within the city itself.
Here is a selection of the universities based in Seattle:
Seattle University features in the Princeton Review's Best Colleges, and is a top-notch study institution, offering a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities. There are 7,405 students enrolled in total, 4,712 undergraduate students, 1,981 graduate students, and 712 law students. 10% of students at Seattle University are international.
Cornish College of the Arts is worth looking at if you are inclined towards the specialisms of performance and visual artistry. It was established in 1914 and has a small student enrollment of 767 students.
The University of Washington is a public university that educates over 54,000 on an annual basis. It prides itself for being at the cutting edge of research and innovation.
Evergreen State College – this progress public liberal arts and sciences college isn’t in Seattle, instead it is an easy driving distance from Olympia. It offers Masters in Teaching, Public Administration and Environmental Studies, very fitting with Washington's dominant agricultural sector.
Tuition fees & living costs in Washington
Tuition fees vary between the universities in Washington state, and the best way to find out is by directly contacting your university through the phone and email contact details found on their website. Fees do vary from university to university, and depend on whether you are a resident of Washington State, an American non-resident, or an overseas student. As an example, the University of Washington has a list of average tuition and living costs for on its own website, suggesting that for international students, with tuition fees and other necessary costs, everything comes to just over $51,000 per annum. One reason for this is that tuition fees for internationals this university are listed at almost $35,000, while for domestic in-state and out-of-state students, they are around $11,000. Evergreen College, however, is one where home students pay around $7,000, while students from outside of Washington will pay more than $23,000.
After tuition fees, your student accommodation is the greatest expense, although this is the same for all students. It is worth finding accommodation that suits you, and the following article is a great place to start your research. If you rent privately then costs can vary widely, but staying on campus means convenience and quality housing as well as reduced transport costs. The estimated cost for catered accommodation is around $12,000 per annum. This is a popular, lower cost, hassle-free option for many. However, self-catered accommodation, plus the cost of food, is estimated by the University of Washington to cost around $15,000 per annum. Remember, too, that applying to study in America means taking out separate health insurance, which may be unfamiliar to certain overseas students.
Applications & admissions In Washington
For students living in the US, applying to do a postgraduate course at a Washington university will be the same as applying at any other American college. You will need to have successfully completed a bachelors degree or equivalent, and if you are from a non-English speaking country you will also need proof of your English-language abilities in order to succeed with your application. You will need to have proof of sufficient funds (including grants, scholarships, etc.) in order to pay for your studies and living costs.
Interesting Washington alumni
Being one of the world's top institutions, the University of Washington boasts some extraordinary alumni, such as sculptor Dale Chihuly, world renowned for his creative glass artistry. Arguably their most famous graduate is Bruce Lee, who studied Drama before going on to show the world his great talent. The University of Seattle has also been home to some well-known figures, such as the American poet Carolyne Wright, and the now retired basketball player and coach, Elgin Baylor.
Student case study
Boeing is one of many aeronautical industries situated in Seattle, and taking the Master of Aerospace Engineering at the University of Washington leaves students prepared to jump straight into a career with them. The students themselves speak highly of the course. Kayleigh Gerlich, who is taking this masters course enthuses, “I've been really pleased with their program so far, and how they've interacted with us,” and those words describe the university as a whole.
What can you do in Washington when you’re not studying?
When you're not working or studying, there is plenty to do in the state of Washington. You could go snowboarding or skiing on Mount Baker – reputed to be one of the world's snowiest places. If snow sports are not your thing then hiking and watersports could be the order of the day, as living in the state of Washington you will be surrounded by luscious green mountains and bodies of water whichever way you turn.
In terms of non-sport options, Washington boasts some cosmopolitan cities with many art galleries, including Chihuly's own, as well as fine eateries and breweries galore. One of Washington's best-loved cities, Seattle, is known for Pike Place Market, where you will find fresh, local produce, and boutique stalls. Although these locations do get busy, Washington has a relaxed vibe. The capital, Olympia, also has plenty to do. If you're a postgraduate with children, you can keep them busy at the Hands on Children's Museum, while Priest Point Park and Long Lake are beautiful, watery areas where you can relax and even go fishing.
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