University of Puget Sound

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Average Rating: 58.7 Average Consensus: 69 Average Review: 76.8
63.3
College Consensus
AVERAGE: 69
52.5
Publisher Consensus
AVERAGE: 58.7
74.2
Student Consensus
AVERAGE: 76.8
Scores last updated on January 6, 2024
83%
Percent Admitted
68%
4-year Graduation Rate
2,023
Enrollment
9.0:1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
$32,665
Average Undergraduate Students Aid
$57,626
In-State Tuition and Fees
$57,626
Out-of-State Tuition and Fees
= Average
Sector
Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Carnegie Classification
Baccalaureate Colleges: Arts & Sciences Focus
Religious Affiliation
Not applicable

The University of Puget Sound is a private, national, 4-year liberal arts college located in north Tacoma, WA. The compact, 97-acre campus includes three main quads: 2 residential and 1 academic. The school boasts a Tudor-Gothic architectural style that fits in with the Pacific Northwest environment. Founded in 1888 by what is now the United Methodist Church, the school is governed today by an independent board of trustees. Students enjoy an atmosphere of independent thinking, with options to participate in spiritual or interfaith activities. The city of Tacoma is known for its individualistic arts scene and dramatic waterfront, and provides a home for various manufacturing and lumber-related industries, as well as close proximity to the tech center of Seattle.

Academic Programs

The University of Puget Sound is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and offers Bachelor’s Degrees, Master’s Degrees and Doctorates in over 50 fields of study. The school is noted for its interdisciplinary and experiential approach to learning, and for its International Political Economy, Asian Studies, Science, Environmental Policy, School of Music, Business Leadership, and Teacher Ed programs. Other popular programs include the Social Sciences, Biology, and BioMedical studies. The University has an extensive study abroad program, including a 9-month PacRim study abroad term in Asia. The school is comprised of over 40 departments, plus graduate schools. “The mission of the university is to develop in its students capacities for critical analysis, aesthetic appreciation, sound judgment, and apt expression that will sustain a lifetime of intellectual curiosity, active inquiry, and reasoned independence. A Puget Sound education, both academic and cocurricular, encourages a rich knowledge of self and others; an appreciation of commonality and difference; the full, open, and civil discussion of ideas; thoughtful moral discourse; and the integration of learning, preparing the university’s graduates to meet the highest tests of democratic citizenship. Such an education seeks to liberate each person’s fullest intellectual and human potential to assist in the unfolding of creative and useful lives.”

Student Life

The University of Puget Sound enrolls over 2,500 undergraduate students, many of whom live on campus in the wide variety of housing available, ranging from traditional dormitories, theme houses and Greek living. There are many clubs and student organizations including club sports and intramurals. For the varsity athlete, the maroon and white Loggers, led by Grizz the Logger, field teams in 14 sports and participate in NCAA Division III competition. Among the several traditions is ‘Foolish Pleasures,’ an annual film festival showing films written, directed, acted, and produced by students. Students are guided through their coursework under the stated Vision of the University: “We believe in the transformational power of a liberal arts education, where students come first and learning and holistic development is an absolute priority.” The individual Values espoused by the University include: Self-Expression – to achieve personal independence; Collegiality – respect for others and collaboration; Courage – civil discourse and deliberation; Passion – intellectual curiosity; Diversity – of identity, thought, perspective, and background; Leadership – to be thoughtful and active citizens and leaders; Stewardship – responsibility for our talents, resources, and traditions; and Environment – natural attributes that enrich our learning community.

Ready to start your journey?

Ready to start your journey?