Best Area Studies Schools in Washington

Washington has 5 colleges offering Area Studies programs tracked by the College Scorecard, producing 339 recent graduates. Graduates in Washington earn $29,062 on average within two years — 12% below the national average of $32,868. Lower cost of living or industry mix may explain the gap.

School choice matters significantly: University of Washington-Seattle Campus graduates earn $33,325 while University of Puget Sound graduates earn $20,140 — a $13,185 gap. Research each program's curriculum, employer connections, and career services before deciding.

5
Schools in WA
$29,062
WA Avg. Earnings
$32,868
National Avg.
98
Schools Nationally

Public vs Private: Area Studies in Washington

Public Schools (4)
$31,292
avg. 2yr earnings
Private Schools (1)
$20,140
avg. 2yr earnings

Public schools in Washington produce comparable or higher early earnings for Area Studies graduates, often at lower cost — making them strong value options.

Area Studies Schools in Washington, Ranked by Earnings

#1
U

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Seattle, WA · Public

$33,325
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $36,522
Graduates: 100
Acceptance: 42.5%
#2
U

University of Washington-Bothell Campus

Bothell, WA · Public

$33,325
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $36,522
Graduates: 100
Acceptance: 91.8%
#3
U

University of Washington-Tacoma Campus

Tacoma, WA · Public

$33,325
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $36,522
Graduates: 100
Acceptance: 83.0%
#4
W

Western Washington University

Bellingham, WA · Public

$25,194
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $23,659
Graduates: 23
Acceptance: 91.3%
#5
U

University of Puget Sound

Tacoma, WA · Private

$20,140
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $34,596
Graduates: 16
Acceptance: 76.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best school for Area Studies in Washington?
University of Washington-Seattle Campus ranks #1 for Area Studies in Washington with median graduate earnings of $33,325 within two years of graduation. There are 5 schools offering Area Studies programs in the state.
How much do Area Studies graduates earn in Washington?
Area Studies graduates in Washington earn an average of $29,062 within two years of graduation. This is 12% below the national average of $32,868 for this major.
What is the hardest Area Studies school to get into in Washington?
University of Washington-Seattle Campus is the most selective Area Studies program in Washington with an acceptance rate of 42.5%. The average acceptance rate across Area Studies programs in the state is 77.0%.
Should I attend a public or private school for Area Studies in Washington?
In Washington, private Area Studies programs produce average earnings of $20,140 vs $31,292 at public schools. However, public schools typically cost less — consider net price relative to earnings when calculating ROI. There are 4 public and 1 private options in the state.

Other Popular Majors in Washington

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Data updated June 2026. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.