Going to college is a dream shared by many forward-thinking high school students. The importance of a college education has increased significantly over the last few decades in particular, as students apply for degrees at increasing rates. The benefits of a college education transcend beyond the lucrative career opportunities; it also equips students with the academic and practical knowledge they need to make a difference in their communities. A college degree also increases the chances of securing a higher income job, economic stability, networking opportunities, and increased marketability, among others. The list goes on and on, and it only proves that the payoff for attending college is almost inevitable.
But while college education equips students and opens up potential career paths for them after graduation, there’s a lot to do before then. It is still up to the high school students and families to select a field of study, and college programs that set them up for excellence. If you aren’t sure where to start, keep in mind that recent trends suggest that the STEM field now offers the most lucrative career paths. Now, interested students can count on the practical knowledge they stand to gain and the rewarding job opportunities that await them in the future.
However, choosing an ideal institution to further your college dreams may prove to be a tricky challenge, especially if you are an aspiring STEM student. Many colleges in the northwest offer majors in outstanding science and engineering programs. But as we all know, having multiple options can make the selection process more difficult. College admission counseling often plays a vital role in helping students make college choices, and you can always consult expert counselors to get extra tips for your college search. Here is a list of some of the top northwest STEM schools.
University of Washington
The University of Washington is one of the oldest and arguably the most prestigious on the west coast. It was founded in 1861 as a public research institute in Seattle, Washington, with other branches across the states. The University of Washington is ranked the 7th best global university in the 2022 edition of Best Colleges. The college of engineering in UW offers quality academics and helps students learn technical skills in their selected discipline. The college has ten engineering programs like the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering in its system, making it one of the best northwest STEM universities.
Gonzaga University
Gonzaga University is a private Catholic university established by Joseph Cataldo in 1887. The university grants masters and doctoral degrees, but it is best known for its undergraduate programs. Gonzaga University has several undergraduate programs within its system, and its science and engineering programs are the most outstanding. Known as the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, SEAS is the school’s STEM department, and it is one of the best northwest STEM programs.
Seattle University
Seattle University is a private research university in Seattle, Washington, associated with the Jesuit society. It was established in 1891, and it is the biggest private independent university in the northwest region. Seattle University is not only famous in the northwest for its size, but it is also renowned for its outstanding programs, especially in the STEM field. The college of science and engineering at Seattle University is determined to drive productivity through innovation and research. The university offers degrees in 9 STEM programs, listing it among the best universities for STEM in Washington.
Washington State University
If you want to bag a degree in any STEM majors and wish to study around the Pacific Northwest, you should consider Washington State University. It is a public research university founded in 1890 in Pullman, Washington. As one of the oldest land-grant universities in the West, Washington State has come a long way, building a reputation as an elite institute with the best college for STEM programs in Pullman. The university is an R1 Doctoral University with high research activities, but it also provides practical and analytical knowledge for its students.
Oregon State University
Oregon State University is the largest and one of the oldest universities in the state. It uses its over 150 years of experience to raise capable graduates that can positively influence their societies. Oregon university has a comprehensive science and technology school that offers degrees in various STEM programs, including engineering majors. This college’s students are provided with top-level academic and practical activities that make them stand out in their chosen career paths.
