2012 Viewbook

Active Minds Changing Lives

At WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY, we are preparing tomorrow’s leaders and shaping the future one student at a time.

Chris Koser designed his own major at Western’s innovative Fairhaven College titled Social Studies through Creative Writing, Psychology and Filmmaking. See examples of Chris’ film work, including a piece about WWU’s leadership in the sustainability movement at www.wwu.edu/fairhaven/about/students/koser.

14,979 students – 2,700 freshmen; 1,300 transfers

94% undergraduates

20% students of color

160+ academic programs

21:1 student-to-faculty ratio

3.33 – 3.80 H.S. GPA (middle 50% of freshman admits)

84% retention to 2nd year

70% graduation rate

4.3 years – average time to degree

92% of freshmen live on campus

90 miles to Seattle

60 miles to Vancouver, B.C.

50 miles to Mt. Baker Ski Area

80,000 population of Bellingham

10 minute walk across campus

15 minute walk to downtown Bellingham

6 miles of forested trails adjacent to campus

FACTSQuick

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ACADEMIC PROGRAMSCollege of Humanities and Social SciencesAmerican Cultural StudiesAnthropology*† Archaeology Biocultural AnthropologyBehavioral NeuroscienceCanadian American Studies†Communication†Communication Sciences and Disorders†Community HealthEast Asian Studies†English*† Creative Writing† LiteratureHistory*†Humanities*† Journalism† Public Relations Visual JournalismKinesiology Health and Fitness Specialist Movement Studies Pre-Health Care Professions Pre-Physical TherapyLanguage Majors in French*†, German*†, Japanese*†, Spanish*†Language Minors in Chinese, Greek, Latin, RussianLinguistics†Philosophy†Politics/Philosophy/EconomicsPolitical Science*†Physical Education and HealthPre-LawPsychology†RecreationSociology*†

College of Sciences and TechnologyBehavioral NeuroscienceBiochemistryBiology*† Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology Cellular and Molecular Biology Marine BiologyChemistry*†

Computer Science†Engineering Technology Electronics Industrial Design Industrial Technology Manufacturing† Plastics Vehicle Design Vehicle EngineeringGeologyMathematics*†Physics and Astronomy*†Pre-Medical, Pre-Dental, Pre-Veterinary Studies

Huxley College of the EnvironmentEnvironmental Education† Community Education and Mass Communication Outdoor Education and InterpretationEnvironmental Science† Environmental Toxicology Freshwater Ecology Marine Ecology Terrestrial EcologyGeography*† Environmental Resource Management International Society and EnvironmentPlanning and Environmental Policy Urban Planning

College of Business and EconomicsAccounting†Business Administration† Finance Human Resource Management International Business† Management† Management Info Systems Marketing Operations ManagementEconomics*†Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management†

Woodring College of EducationEarly Childhood EducationElementary EducationSecondary EducationSpecial EducationHuman ServicesLanguage, Literacy and Cultural Studies

College of Fine and Performing Arts(Admission to Art requires a portfolio review and Music requires an audition. Refer to wwu.wwu.edu/art or www.wwu.edu/music.)

Art*Art-DesignArt EducationArt History†Studio Art Concentrations in Ceramics, Drawing, Fibers and Fabrics, Inter and Mixed Media, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, SculptureDance†Music*† Composition Music History and Literature PerformanceMusic Education*Theatre Arts*† Concentrations in Acting, Design, Directing, Dramatic Writing, Educational Drama, Technical Theatre

Fairhaven College of Interdisciplinary StudiesWestern’s interdisciplinary liberal arts college provides a creative opportunity for students to design their own program of studies. Innovation, self-direction, strong advising, and student-faculty collaboration characterize a Fairhaven education.

Fairhaven College is a member of the Consortium for Innovative Environments in Learning, along with colleges such as Hampshire, Prescott, Pitzer, and Evergreen.

Admission to Fairhaven College requires additional application materials: www.wwu.edu/fairhaven or (360) 650-2976.

Other academic options Honors Program

Freshman Interest Groups

Distinguished Scholar Programs

International Programs and Exchanges

Note: This list of academic programs is subject to change with advanced notice.

More than 160 OPTIONS for you to EXPLORE

(*) Related teaching endorsement offered, (†) Minor offered 3

Western’s investment in you matches your investment in yourself. You bring the passion, commitment, and imagination; we provide the foundation, opportunities, and inspiration.

For 14 years in a row, Western has ranked #1 among public master’s degree granting universities in the Pacific Northwest. US News and World Report

WESTERN

A standard of excellence…You can choose any program at Western and find excellence in academic offerings, faculty, student experience, and student outcomes. A welcoming campus community, a strong sense of belonging, and a spectacular location additionally distinguish Western from universities across the country.

Not too big, not too small…With 15,000 students, 160 academic programs, and an energized campus community, Western offers the focus on students and the faculty access of a smaller college and the academic choice, resources, multicultural diversity, and room to grow of a large university. Not so big that you feel like a number; not so small that you have to conform to a mold. Large enough for you to define yourself and small enough that you make a difference.

Inspiring the next generation of leaders…Leadership is about having a vision, empowering others, making things happen, and seeing results. Whether launching research projects, writing opinion articles, organizing an event, supporting friends, or presenting at a national conference, leadership skills differentiate the achievers from the dreamers. Opportunities to demonstrate and develop leadership abound at Western and in the Bellingham community.

Green thinking…Home of the first College of the Environment in the country and with 40 years of environmental leadership under our belt, Western has been dedicated to protecting the environment and building a green economy long before it was the cool thing to do. From a commitment to 100% use of green energy and a focus on waste reduction to sustainability-minded courses across the curriculum, sustainability is woven into the campus community.

Connect with us at facebook.com/westernwashingtonuniversity

Distinctly

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With its comfy armchairs and wide, bright windows, the library

skybridge is the perfect place to study, meet with friends and

classmates, or just curl up with a good book. Easy access

to library resources, laptop check-out and Zoe’s Bookside

Bagels make this a popular spot.

Western prides itself on being an active member of the Bellingham

community. Students often partner with local organizations on

projects ranging from volunteering with environmental cleanup and

restoration to planning community-wide events.

The Compass 2 Campus program brings

hundreds of 5th graders from Whatcom and

Skagit counties to Western’s campus every

year. Western students partner with the 5th

graders to act as mentors through their senior

year of high school and encourage them to

graduate from high school and pursue a

college education.

On a sunny spring day, the Old Main lawn becomes an outdoor classroom with students immersed in discussion against a backdrop of Western’s lush Pacific Northwest foliage. Whether they’re in class, playing Frisbee or taking a nap, spring sees students heading outside.

The Associated Students Ethnic Student Center (ESC) celebrates diversity and heritage through events showcasing traditions from different cultures around the world. The ESC is open to all Western students as a place to explore cultural identity and build community.

experiencesCampus & Student

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COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS

BUsiness LeadersCreating Future

A degree from Western’s College of Business and Economics can open countless doors. Prepare to run your own business, become a player in global economic markets, or influence the world through environmentally-sensitive and ethically strong business practices.

Coursework will prepare you for real-life business situations by requiring you to work in teams on actual business problems. You will benefit from the emphasis on forward-looking, goal-setting practices in the business world, as well as a focus on an active role in community leadership.

We take great pride in breaking down barriers between faculty and students. You will get to know your professors as teachers, career advisors, mentors, and friends. They will be your greatest advocates.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Internshipsareakeypartofyourbusinesseducation.Recentinternshipplacements include CBS News – The Early Show, Boeing, Target, Seattle Mariners, Merrill Lynch, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

• The College of Business and Economics is a member of a select group of U.S. businessprograms accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International, guaranteeing students the highest standards in business education.

• SuccessfulalumniknowthevalueofaWesternbusinessdegree,andcanopendoorstoexcitingopportunities. Alumni stay connected as members of advisory boards, guest speakers, virtual mentors, and employers of WWU grads.

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To prepare you for careers in medicine, engineering technology, computer science, and more, the College of Science and Technology places you on the cutting edge of research and innovation. With state-of-the-art lab equipment, exciting fieldwork, and meaningful research projects, studying science, mathematics, or technology at Western can be a powerful experience.

Our faculty participate directly in the classroom and laboratory instruction of our students, in programs that emphasize independent student scholarship and the development of innovative thinking. This close faculty-student interaction, a hallmark of the “Western Experience,” results in an intense and fulfilling educational experience, as you and your professors conduct research together, co-author articles, and travel to and present at regional and national professional conferences.

Prepare yourself for a rewarding career – one that makes the world better in the process.

HIGHLIGHTS

• InourVehicleResearchInstitute,studentsandfacultydesignandbuildvehicleswithinnovativetechnology. Automobile Magazine calls Western “very possibly the best school in the country for total car design.”

• ShannonPointMarineCenter,Western’soff-campus coastal research facility,offers access tonatural marine habitat, sophisticated labs, a fleet of research vessels, and a 12,600 square foot Marine Education Center.

• Science and Technology students continue to win prestigious research opportunities andinternships, including NASA among our partners. This real-world experience makes Western Science and Technology students stand out to employers, medical schools, and graduate programs.

innovationCutting-Edge Research &

COLLEGE OF SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY

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WOODRING COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

inspireLearning to

Western is widely recognized as the premiere place for teacher education in the Northwest. We graduate more teachers each year than any other institution in the region, and we take that responsibility seriously. Woodring College of Education graduates make a difference in the lives of students throughout Washington and the world.

Faculty have a valuable mix of classroom and scholarly experience, providing students with both strong theoretical background and practical teaching strategies. All teacher education students participate in a student teaching internship. You can choose to teach locally, throughout Washington, or in another country.

A Woodring education will give you a real chance to shape the future through the hearts and minds of today’s youth.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Shareyourpassionformentoringand inspiringothers.Compass2Campus isaprogramatWestern Washington University designed to increase access to higher education by providing an opportunity for 5th grade students from traditionally underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds in Whatcom and Skagit counties to be mentored by university students.

• Education students will enjoy a $51.5 million newly renovated facility. Miller Hall’s newclassrooms, computer labs, and instructional space will provide state of the art facilities with a focus on sustainability for students.

• CandidatesintheTeacherPreparationPrograminWoodringCollegeofEducationcontinuetoscore well on the Washington Educator Skills Test – Endorsements (WEST-E) subject exams. For the 2010-11 academic year, 92% of candidates passed their exam(s) on the first sitting.

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With more than 40 bachelor’s degrees and eight master’s degrees to choose from, student-centered classes, and an active approach to teaching and learning, the humanities and social sciences are ideal for those looking to explore issues of life, culture, and society.

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences trains lawyers, psychologists, and historians to be critical thinkers and ethical problem solvers. Future journalists, politicians, and sociologists are grounded with teachings of the past and inspired to take us in new directions.

Learn from nationally recognized faculty and discover your potential to make change in the world. The College places strong emphasis on student-faculty collaboration through active learning, including laboratory experiences, community-based faculty-directed service learning, and student involvement in faculty research programs. With your inspiration, Western will prepare you to lead in your chosen field.

HIGHLIGHTS

• ThroughWestern’s InternationalProgramsandExchangesyoucanstudyabroadinover84countries and in more than 45 languages. Taking your education across the globe is more than a great learning experience; it is transformative.

• With six on-campus newspapers, magazines, and journals to write for, expect to get realexperience writing, reporting, and editing in the field.

• StudentsintheCollegeofHumanitiesandSocialScienceslog200,000hoursofcommunityservice each year, developing valuable leadership skills while serving an important role in the surrounding community.

creative Problem SolvingCritical tHinking,

COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES

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HUXLEY COLLEGE OF THE ENVIRONMENT

sUstainaBLe FUtUreWorking for a

Where else can you walk across a glacier in the morning and spend the afternoon wading through a salt water habitat? Western’s natural setting provides an incredible outdoor classroom with unique opportunities for scientific research and exploration. No wonder Sierra Magazine ranked Western one of its “Coolest Schools.”

In 1968, Huxley College of the Environment became one of the nation’s first environmental studies colleges. Today we remain respected around the world as we educate students about environmental science, policy, conservation, environmental education, sustainability, and urban planning.

For careers in science, law, politics, and business, Huxley will give you the technical skills you need in the field, and a broad understanding of social and political forces that affect the environment. Preparing students to find responsible solutions to real world problems is a challenge we embrace. Huxley students want to make a difference, and do so.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Extendyoureducationbeyondourbackyard.Inrecentyears,studentshavetakentheirstudyofthe environment to France, Portugal, Costa Rica, Greece, and other places around the globe.

• StudentsatHuxleyhaveaccesstoacommunityforestreserveof2,300acresofforestlandinthe foothills of Mt. Baker; the Canyon Lake Community Forest. This parcel of land includes 600 acres of old-growth forest with trees 800 to 1,000 years old, as well as a 50-acre lake and alpine wetlands. This property is one of many resources available to students for research and study in land and wildlife management.

• InspiredbytheirEnvironmentalScience202class,agroupofstudentsledthewayinmakingWestern the first university in the country to purchase 100% of its electrical energy from renewable energy sources.

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Dancers, musicians, artists, and actors... Prepare to shine! The arts bring our campus to life, and have a huge influence on the Bellingham culture. For anyone seeking the spotlight or a life of creativity, Bellingham will feel like home and Western will give you a shot.

Most faculty members in the College of Fine and Performing Arts are also active and accomplished performers, artists, composers, and directors themselves.

Learn from the best and challenge yourself at national competitions and regional exhibitions. With three on-campus art galleries, several professional grade performance venues, and a richly talented student body, Western is an absolute haven for the creative, and a launch pad for the stars. Bring us your dreams, and we will help you make them a reality.

HIGHLIGHTS

• More than25 largeandsmallmusicensembles,alongwith frequentconcertsandstudentrecitals, are an integral part of the campus experience for everyone at Western.

• TogetherwiththeinternationallyrecognizedOutdoorSculptureCollectionandtheon-campusgalleries, the Art Department provides one of the best undergraduate programs for the arts in the region.

• Between the Theatre Department and student-run performance organizations, Westernproduces more theatre than any other university in Washington.

creativity & taLentNurturing

COLLEGE OF FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS

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FAIRHAVEN COLLEGE OF INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES

sociaL responsiBiLityCreatively Promoting

Fairhaven College is a small interdisciplinary liberal arts college within a public university. Students have access to all classes and resources of a large state university, but share a unique learning experience with 400 other students in an environment that highlights social justice and community.

As a Fairhaven student, you can design your own degree or pursue any major offered by Western. The self-designed major, or Interdisciplinary Concentration, allows you to develop a curriculum that meets your specific academic and personal goals. Narrative evaluations written by the student and their faculty member replace traditional letter grades at Fairhaven, forming an academic autobiography of growth and learning.

Fairhaven College is an exciting option for students seeking an innovative and engaging college experience.

HIGHLIGHTS

• FairhavenishometoWestern’sCenterforLaw,DiversityandJustice,auniqueprogramforstudents interested in law school, politics, and other careers involving social justice and the legal system.

• Recentstudent-designedConcentrationsinclude:ArtTherapy:UnderstandingPeopleandtheCreative Process; Law, Diversity and Public Policy; and Cross Cultural Perspectives on Human Ecology and Social Justice.

• TheAssociated StudentsOutback Farm is a five acre student-run site at the south endofFairhaven College which teaches, develops and implements sustainable growing and land use methods in order to enrich the student body, the University, and the Bellingham community.

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Leading at WesternStepping Up and Standing Out

HONORS PROGRAM: If you’re looking to challenge yourself and learn with a close-knit community of scholars, Western’s Honors Program may be the perfect fit for you. With small, discussion based classes taught by outstanding professors, Honors offers students a more intimate college experience, but with all the resources of a vibrant public university.

Admission to the Honors Program is highly selective, and is based on academic achievement, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation and a writing sample. For more information, visit wwu.edu/honors or contact the Honors Program Director, Dr. George Mariz, at [email protected].

ASSOCIATEd STudENTS: Whether you want to start a club, lead an outdoor excursion, host a radio show or get involved with student government, Western’s Associated Students (AS) provides networking and leadership opportunities you can be passionate about. With more than 30 programs and services and more than 200 clubs, all run by students, the AS offers dozens of ways for you to take the Western experience into your own hands.

As an organization created by and for Western students, the AS is all about helping students to define themselves and make the most of their college experience. For more information on the AS and all that they do, visit as.wwu.edu.

LEAdERSHIP AdvANTAGE PROGRAM: Western’s Leadership Advantage program is a unique campus-wide effort to create leadership opportunities that allow each and every student to shine in their own way. Students document their leadership journey through workshops, lectures, e-zine and a portfolio process, and graduate with the skills they’ll need to exercise responsible leadership beyond college. For more information on the Leadership Advantage program, visit www.wwu.edu/dos/leadership.

AS Executive Board, left to right: Mario Orallo-Molinaro, Sara Richards, Travis Peters, John Deng Duot, Fabiola Arvizu, Anna Ellermeier, Iris Maute-Gibson

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OR

NV

ID

MT

WY

UT CO

AZ NM

CA

Seattle Spokane

WASHINGTON

BELLINGHAM

Portland, OR

Vancouver, B.C.

CANADA

LocationLocation, Location,

With a population of 80,000, two downtown areas,

a large mall, outstanding restaurants, and an active

arts community, Bellingham is much more than just a

college town.

Bellingham is perfect for those who want to be

close, but not too close, to big city life. Western

is far enough away from the big city to keep you

focused on your studies, but you can still be in

Seattle or vancouver B.C. in less than an

hour and a half.

Whether you’re looking to hit the shops

downtown or venture outside, Bellingham will

keep you moving. Enjoy a morning on the mountain, an

afternoon downtown, and an evening by the bay

watching the sunset.

Western students call Bellingham an escape, an adventure,

a breath of fresh air, and a great place to call home.

Come broaden your horizons!

The Bellingham Farmer’s Market is a favorite spot to shop

for local goods and produce.

Students enjoy the casual dining scene downtown.

Great coffee is one way to enhance the beautiful views of Bellingham Bay.

AS OUTDOOR CENTERas.wwu.edu/outdoor

MOUNT BAKER SKI AREAwww.mtbaker.us

MORE ABOUT BELLINGHAM www.bellingham.org &

admissions.wwu.edu/bellingham

HIGHLIGHTS:

•MountBakerSkiArea,whichaverages the most annual snowfall in North America, is just 50 miles from campus.

•Outside and National Geographic Adventure magazines have ranked Bellingham among the top ten communities in the country for outdoor lovers.

•Money Magazine recently ranked Bellingham as one of the best places in the country to live.

•Moststudentsgetaroundtownby using Bellingham’s convenient public transportation. A Viking Xpress Bus Pass is free to students taking 6 or more credit hours.

Fairhaven College graduate Dylan Hart (’06, Environmental Journalism major) captured this photo at Mount Baker. 17

BIKE SHOP (editable)

BIKE SHOPOUTDOOR CENTER

WINTER LOGOMAIN LOGO

B/W BIKE SHOP

SPRING LOGO

Students can rent sailboats and other watercraft for just a few dollars at Western’s Lakewood facility.

Nearby Galbraith Mountain boasts world-class trails for mountain bike enthusiasts.

The Wade King Recreation Center gives climbers a chance to hone their skills.

cULtUre & coMMUnityDiversity,

With a vibrant network of student clubs, Western’s Ethnic Student Center (ESC) provides a supportive environment for cultural, social and ethnic diversity, encouraging community, social justice and a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives. Advisors and student staff foster identity, community, and leadership amongst the ESC’s thousands of members and loyal alums.

Collaboration between groups like the Black Student Union, Latino Student Union, Filipino American Student Association, Queer Resource Center, and disAbility Resource Center for Students makes Western’s community unique.

It is a truly supportive environment, rich with diverse opinions and life experiences. Students study together, organize campus-wide events, plan road trips, debate world issues, and challenge each other to succeed.

African Caribbean Club

American Sign Language Club

Black Student union

Chinese Student Association

Filipino American Student Association

German Club

Hui ‘O Hawaii

International Movie and Tea Club

Japanese Conversation Club

Japanese Student Association

Korean Student Association

La Table Françoise

Latino Student union

MEChA

Mixed Identity Student Organization

Model united Nations

Native American Student union

Polynesian Club

Queer People of Color

South Asian Students Association

vietnamese Student Association

WWu Khmer Student Association

STudENT CLuBS

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gLoBaLLy, stUdyThink

south africawinter 2011

www.wwu.edu/travelprograms

[email protected]

make a difference in an african community

service learning infaculty-led travel

program

Attend an Information Meeting!

May 4, 3:00 pm, WWU-Arntzen Hall 225

Locally

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The Center for International Studies is an umbrella for international education at Western. Its mission is to foster international and global perspectives for all Western students, through courses, international experiences on campus, and study abroad.

With a wide variety of language majors and minors, as well as culturally-focused academic programs like Canadian-American Studies, East Asian Studies, Latin American Studies, Asian American Studies, and Arabic and Islamic studies, it’s easy to integrate international study, even if you don’t choose to study abroad.

If you want to travel the world, quarter, semester, and yearlong study abroad programs are offered in dozens of countries, including Mexico, Nepal, Spain, Ecuador, England, France, Vietnam, Australia, Italy and Chile.

The nationally recognized Center for Canadian-American Studies offers an interdisciplinary major and minor, and fosters student research on Canada-U.S. public policy issues.

“My education at the Center for Canadian-American Studies has allowed me to see more clearly my nation’s role in a continental and global perspective. The student-oriented focus of the faculty and staff at Can/Am is second to none. The interdisciplinary nature of the program fosters big-picture thinking without losing focus on key issues facing the Northwest region of Washington.

We are the number one program in the field in the US because our faculty conduct cutting-edge research relied upon by policy makers and admired by fellow academics.” – Elliott Smith, Canadian American Studies Graduate.

Beyond tHe cLassrooMStudent Life

College life is more than just studying and classrooms, and Western students definitely live life to the fullest. Run for student office, embrace your culture and community, or head to the mountain, the water, or the Wade King Student Recreation Center to balance your hard work with action and fun.

The Associated Students (AS) at Western supports hundreds of clubs and programs that are managed by elected student leaders and staffed by students just like you. Work as a volunteer, or apply for a campus job coordinating events, raising awareness, or even managing budgets and personnel.

Student leaders organize political debates, celebrations such as Black History Month, Western’s annual Low Rider Show, and voter registration drives. Get involved on Western’s campus, and watch unique real-world experience lead to success in the real world.

Learn more about the AS at as.wwu.edu.

Find over 200 more atas.wwu.edu/clubs

Bellingham Bike Gang

Big Brothers Big Sisters

Campus Christian Fellowship

Jewish Student Organization

College Republicans

disc Golf Club

diversity Inspired volunteer Educators

Glee Club

Hip Hop dance Team

Local to Global: Education, Prevention & Aid

Longboarding Club

National Society of Collegiate Scholars

Newman Catholic Campus Ministries

Out of State Student Association

Photography Club

Pre-Med Club

Student Theatre Productions

Students for Renewable Energy

The Film Club

Western democrats

Western Men Against violence

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atHLetics Recreation &

HIGHLIGHTS

• In2010-11,theVikingsplaced7thnationallyintheLearfieldSportsDirectorsCupall-sportsstandings among 310 NCAA Division II schools, a third straight top ten finish. Thirty athletes received DII Athletic Directors Association Academic Achievement Awards, and 22 were named national scholar-athletes.

• TheVikingWomen’sRowingteamearnedtheir7thstraightnationaltitle in2010-11,afeatnever accomplished by any team in NCAA history.

• TheWadeKingStudentRecreationCenterfeaturesanindoortrack,30-footrockclimbingwall,swimming pool, three court gym, 32-person whirlpool, cardio equipment and an extensive weight training facility.

With NCAA division II athletics, club sports, intramurals, a state-of-the-art recreation center, and endless outdoor action at your doorstep, don’t expect to sit still at Western. Staying fit and active will keep you feeling positive and energetic about life inside and outside of class.

Baseball Cycling

Equestrian Fencing

Judo Lacrosse

Men’s Ice Hockey Men’s Rowing

Rugby Sailing

Swimming Tennis

Ultimate Frisbee Volleyball

Water Polo Water Skiing

NCAA dIvISION II

Basketball CheerleadingCross Country

Golf Soccer Softball

Track & Field Women’s Rowing

Women’s Volleyball

CLuB SPORTS

Basketball Badminton Dodge Ball

Flag Football Floor Hockey

GolfKick Ball

Racquetball Soccer Softball Tennis

Ultimate Frisbee VolleyballWallyball

INTRAMuRALS

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caMpUsLiving on

Living on campus lets you extend your learning beyond the classroom, make lifelong friends, and engage in student life in a rich and rewarding way. The residence halls vary in size, style of architecture, and living options, but all are within a ten-minute walk to the campus core and offer a unique residential experience.

WHY dO NEARLY ALL FRESHMEN CHOOSE TO LIvE ON CAMPuS? Research shows students who live on campus are more satisfied with their education, earn higher grades, and graduate in higher numbers than students who live off-campus. Although Western does not have a live-on requirement, 92% of freshmen choose to live on Western’s campus their first year.

dIvERSE & INCLuSIvE COMMuNITIES: Sixteen residence halls and one apartment complex comprise nine residential communities – home to 4,200 students. Communities are equipped with laundry facilities, computer labs, study areas, community kitchens, 24-hour security and staffed service desks and more.

CONvENIENCE & INvOLvEMENT: By living on campus, you can surround yourself with rich academic resources. The simplicity and convenience of a meal plan, onsite laundry facilities, and in-room WiFi access allow you to focus on your classes, your community, and your campus involvement. Residential clusters are available to students in certain academic programs and integrate community living with active scholarship.

SAFETY & SECuRITY: Safety and security are integral parts of the residential experience, and Western is committed to providing an environment that is sensitive and responsive to residents’ diverse needs. Residential buildings have professional live-in staff and are locked 24 hours a day.

vARIETY OF HOuSING OPTIONS: New students who meet the housing deadlines are guaranteed housing their first year at Western. Placement priority is given to housing applicants who applied for admission the earliest. Detailed housing information is sent to students at the time of admission.

Check out University Residences & Dining Services at housing.wwu.edu.

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23

edUcationFinancing Your

WASHINGTON RESIdENT

Tuition 6,468

Fees 1,290

On-campus housing/meals* 8,755

Double room & standard meal plan

Books & Supplies** 1,020

Transportation** 1,200

Personal** 1,713

TOTAL** $20,446

NON-RESIdENT

Tuition 16,815

Fees 1,290

On-campus housing/meals* 8,755

Double room & standard meal plan

Books & Supplies** 1,020

Transportation** 1,200

Personal** 1,713

TOTAL** $30,793

Pairing excellence in education and outstanding outcomes with affordable tuition, Western is an exceptional investment. In fact, Western alumni report that the value of a Western Washington University degree continues to increase over time.

Beyond being an incredible value when compared to private colleges and most research universities, Western helps eligible students reduce expenses through a variety of financial aid options (www.finaid.wwu.edu) including:

• Providingneed-basedfinancialaidandlowinterestloanstostudentswhoseFAFSA(Free Application for Federal Student Aid) demonstrates they could not otherwise afford to attend

• Awardingscholarships that recognizeacademicachievement, leadershippotential,special talents, multicultural achievement, etc.

• Offering need-based work-study (FAFSA-dependent) and other employmentopportunities

• OfferingavarietyofscholorshipsforstudentswholiveinstatesotherthanWA,includingWestern Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) states

2011-2012 COST OF ATTENdANCE *May be reduced depending on room type and meal plan

**Costs vary depending on the student

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HIGHLIGHTS

• Morethan100,000livinggraduatesofWesternarespreadaroundtheglobe,with78percentin Washington.

• Back2BellinghamalumniandfamilyweekendisthebiggestWesterngatheringoftheyear,with more than 1,500 WWU alumni and families returning to campus for reunions, open houses and other activities.

• TheAlumniAssociationdistributed$117,000inscholarshipssince2010,raisingfundsthroughalumni membership dues, license plates, Memory Walk Bricks and other programs.

• TheAsk!programisanonlinenetworkcreatedbytheWesternAlumniAssociationtoconnectWWU students and alumni for professional mentoring and career networking.

Making a diFFerenceWestern Alumni, staying connected &

Western’s reputation for educating creative, well-rounded, and dynamic professionals can really pay off in the job market. Employers say that Western graduates are unusually innovative, flexible, and forward-thinking.

Yet, a Western degree does not just benefit you; it benefits the communities and causes you care about most. We are proud to educate exceptional citizens as well as outstanding professionals—individuals who excel in everything they do and feel compelled to give back to others. Western alumni volunteer, mentor and support initiatives throughout the state and the nation to improve the lives of others.

Western’s track record is also outstanding for graduate school preparation. Recent graduates have gained admission to a variety of graduate schools, including Brown, Columbia, Duke, Harvard, New York University, Stanford, University of Washington, University of Pittsburgh, and University of California, Santa Cruz.

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MINIMuM COuRSE REQuIREMENTS

43

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21

units of English, college prep composition and/or Literature

units of Mathematics, including Geometry and two units of Algebra beyond pre-algebra

units of Science, with one year of algebra-based Chemistry or Physics; one year must include a Lab

units of Social Science, such as History, Civics, Psychology, Economics, etc.

sequential units of a single world language, Native American language or American Sign Language

semester or trimester of Fine and Performing Arts

AdMITTEd FRESHMAN GPA dISTRIBuTION 2010

Cumulative GPA Distribution

3.8 - 4 25%

3.6 - 3.79 22%

3.4 - 3.59 22%

3.2 - 3.39 16%

below 3.2 13%

Most admitted students go above and beyond these minimum course requirements. A full load of standard academic courses; Advanced Placement (AP); International Baccalaureate (IB); Running Start or other College-in-the-High-School; and Honors courses provide an excellent foundation for a successful college experience. Choose to challenge yourself by taking classes that push you to think in new ways, explore tough topics and support you in becoming a well-rounded student.

MORE AdMITTEd FRESHMAN FACTS

Middle 50% SAT Score 1560–1840

Average ACT Score 25

Average Academic Profile for Honors Program Acceptance

2000 SAT3.9 GPA

College Credit Earned in High School (AP, IB, Running Start, etc.)

54%

Students of Color 26%

Interested in Outdoor Activities

49%

Plan to Study Abroad 50%

Interested in Community Service

58%

Plan to live on campus 92%

*not calculated on 4.0 scale

admissions.wwu.edu/applyApply online:

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YOU!

Activities

CourseRigor

GPA DiverseExperiences

Grade Trends

SpecialTalent

Essay

Leadership

PersonalCircumstances

TestScores AcademicRecord

Creativity Passion CommunityInvolvement Motivation

Obviously, your academic per-formance is highly important in the admissions process, but we realize there are countless additional factors that indicate your true potential. Each piece of the puzzle represents qualities we consider when making admission decisions, with the most important piece being what YOU will bring to Western Washington University. Your essay and activities list can speak volumes to the Ad-missions Committee, so seize the opportunity to tell us your story.

pieces togetHer Putting the

AdMISSIONS TIMELINE

NOvEMBER 1 thru Mid-April

Notification of admissions decisions and scholarships begins. Don’t worry if you don’t hear from us right away; nearly half of our students receive their application decision and/or scholarship letter after the application deadline.

JANuARY 31 Fall Quarter Application

DeadlineLast day to submit your application to Western before it’s marked late.

JANuARY 31 Priority Scholarship Deadline

On-time applicants get full consideration for Western’s merit scholarships. Recipients of merit scholarships are notified by mid-March.

FEBRuARY 15 Financial Aid Priority Deadline

File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by mid-February to be considered for federal and state financial aid. The fastest and most accurate way to file your FAFSA is online at www.fafsa.ed.gov — go ahead and log on now to get you and your family a PIN, which will serve as your signatures for the online form. Then, you’re ready to complete your FAFSA starting January 1. Students who submit the FAFSA after February 15th may miss out on some serious financial aid, so don’t be late if you can help it.

MId-MARCH Financial aid award notification begins if you submitted the FAFSA by the priority deadline.

EARLY APRILWestern Preview, our Saturday Open House for all admitted students who haven’t already visited campus, as well as those who like us so much they want to visit again.

MAY 1 National College Decision Day

Enrollment confirmation fee due, as well as the priority application deadline for on-campus housing at Western.

AuGuST Summerstart new student orientation, advising and registration program.

SEPTEMBER Welcome to Western – classes begin!

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WesternVisiting

CAMPuS TOuRSJoin our Student Admissions Representatives on a 90-minute walking tour of campus. You will be able to visit academic buildings, see inside a residence hall and learn all about the exciting opportunities Western has to offer.

dISCOvERY dAYSA more comprehensive experience than a regular tour, our Discovery Days program includes an admissions presentation and panel where students and parents can ask questions of admissions counselors, a faculty member and current students. The day also includes a residence hall showcase and campus open-house.

OTHER OPPORTuNITIESLarge open-house style events for prospective students occur in the fall and spring – check our website for the most up-to-date information regarding special visit opportunities.

Office of Admissions Phone:(360)650-3440•Fax:(360)650-7369•Email:[email protected]

admissions.wwu.eduwww.facebook.com/westernwashingtonuniversity

To connect to other WWU offices and academic departments, visit www.wwu.edu or call the Campus Operator at (360) 650-3000.

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WESTERN is a place where you can immerse

path to the future.yourself in new ideas and forge your own

Students exchange ideas, information and diverse perspectives at Western’s

Red Square, a free speech zone.

JOuRNEY OF A LIFETIMEAs part of an undergraduate research program called The Polaris Project, Western senior Becky Tachihara, alumnus Matt Moroney and environmental science professor Andy Bunn traveled to the Siberian Artic with 19 other students and scientists from around the world. The Project aims to create a better understanding of Artic systems in the face of climate change and teach young scientists the tools they need to become the next generation of Artic researchers in this ecologically vital and sensitive area. Across Western’s community, students and professors are conducting research that will shape the core issues of our time.

Office of AdmissionsOld Main 200, MS 9009516 High Street, Bellingham, WA 98225