Washington & Jefferson College
Washington, United States
Washington & Jefferson College
Washington, Pennsylvania, United States
Founded
1781
Institution Type
Private Liberal Arts
Total Students
1,300+
Student-Faculty Ratio
11:1
Discover Washington & Jefferson College: A Historic Liberal Arts Institution
Discover Washington & Jefferson College: A Historic Liberal Arts Institution
Washington & Jefferson College (W&J) is a private liberal arts college located in Washington, Pennsylvania, approximately 30 miles south of Pittsburgh. Founded in 1781, it is one of the oldest colleges in the United States, tracing its origins to three log cabin schools established by Presbyterian missionaries on the American frontier.
The college emerged from the merger of Washington College and Jefferson College in 1865, creating a unified institution dedicated to the liberal arts tradition. Today, W&J offers 33 majors and enrolls approximately 1,300 undergraduate students on its historic 60-acre campus, which features more than 40 buildings including structures dating back to 1793.
W&J is known for its close-knit academic community, small class sizes, and strong record of preparing students for graduate and professional programs. Approximately 90% of students who apply to medical or law school gain admission, and the college is ranked among the top institutions nationally for producing doctors and scientific researchers per capita.
Key Milestones
- 1781: Founding of the first log cabin college by frontier clergymen, marking the origins of what would become W&J.
- 1787: Washington Academy was officially chartered by the Pennsylvania General Assembly.
- 1865: Washington College and Jefferson College merged to form Washington & Jefferson College.
- 1970: The college became coeducational, admitting women students for the first time.
Academic Programs & Departments at W&J
Academic Programs & Departments at W&J
Washington & Jefferson College offers a comprehensive liberal arts curriculum with 33 majors across the humanities, sciences, social sciences, and professional fields. Every student begins undeclared, giving them the freedom to explore their interests before choosing a major. The college also features signature programs like the Magellan Project for student research and the MayTerm for intensive study experiences.
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
The natural sciences division provides rigorous training in laboratory and quantitative disciplines, with strong preparation for medical school and graduate programs in STEM fields.
- Biology (Biomedical Science Emphasis)
- Chemistry
- Physics
Social Sciences
The social sciences programs develop critical thinking and analytical skills through the study of human behavior, institutions, and societies, with popular majors in economics and political science.
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Economics
Business & Accounting
W&J's business programs combine liberal arts foundations with professional training in commerce, finance, and accounting, preparing graduates for careers in corporate and public sectors.
- Business Administration
- Accounting
- Sport Economics Emphasis
Humanities & Languages
The humanities division fosters deep engagement with literature, history, philosophy, and languages, developing strong communication and analytical skills valued across all professions.
- History
- English
- Philosophy
Arts & Communication
W&J's arts programs are centered in the Olin Fine Arts Center and offer hands-on creative education in visual arts, music, and theater within a supportive liberal arts environment.
- Fine/Studio Arts
- Music
- Theatre & Communication
Environmental & Interdisciplinary Studies
Interdisciplinary programs allow students to explore the intersections of multiple fields, including environmental science, international studies, and public policy.
- Environmental Science
- International/Global Studies
- Public Policy Analysis
Admission Requirements for Washington & Jefferson College
Admission Requirements for Washington & Jefferson College
Undergraduate Admission
- Application PlatformCommon Application accepted
- High School GPACompetitive academic record required
- Acceptance RateApproximately 81%
- English ProficiencyTOEFL or IELTS required for non-native speakers
- Recommendation LettersAcademic recommendations required
Graduate Admission
- Degree RequirementBachelor's degree from accredited institution
- TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all institutions attended
- Standardized TestsContact the college for program-specific requirements
- Application MaterialsPersonal statement and recommendations
- English ProficiencyRequired for international applicants
Binding early decision deadline for students who have identified W&J as their first-choice college.
Second binding early decision round for students who need more time to finalize their decision.
Standard application deadline for fall semester enrollment consideration.
Priority deadline for submitting FAFSA and financial aid applications to maximize aid eligibility.
Tuition, Fees & Scholarships at W&J
Tuition, Fees & Scholarships at W&J
Washington & Jefferson College is committed to making a high-quality liberal arts education accessible. The college's tuition is notably lower than the national average for private institutions, and 100% of enrolled undergraduates receive some form of grants or scholarships.
| Cost Category | Annual Cost (2025-26) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | USD 30,280 | USD 30,280 |
| Room & Board | USD 15,910 | USD 15,910 |
| Books & Supplies | USD 1,000 | USD 1,000 |
| Personal & Transportation | USD 765 | USD 765 |
| Total | USD 47,955 | USD 47,955 |
Merit-Based Scholarships
All admitted students are automatically considered for a variety of merit-based awards. W&J gives out grants to nearly all of its students, significantly reducing the cost of attendance.
- Eligibility: All admitted students automatically considered
- Average Aid Amount: USD 17,726 per year
- Students Receiving Aid: 100% of enrolled undergraduates
Need-Based Financial Aid
W&J provides generous need-based financial aid packages including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities to help families manage the cost of attendance.
- Average Need-Based Grant: USD 24,617 for first-year students
- Students Receiving Need-Based Aid: 74% of first-year students
- Average Net Price: USD 25,338 after aid
Campus & Facilities at Washington & Jefferson College
Campus & Facilities at Washington & Jefferson College
The W&J campus spans 60 acres in Washington, Pennsylvania, featuring more than 40 buildings that blend historic Federal and Victorian-style architecture with modern academic facilities. The oldest building on campus dates to 1793, and the iconic Old Main is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The iconic twin-towered landmark symbolizing the 1865 unification of Washington College and Jefferson College, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Home to the art gallery, a 486-seat auditorium, and departments of Art, Music, and Theatre & Communication.
The primary outdoor athletic venue used for football and track events, supporting W&J's storied athletic tradition.
Housing & Dining
Residential Life
Nearly all W&J students live on campus in a variety of residence halls and apartment-style housing. The college operates on a traditional residential model requiring students to live on campus for all four years unless they reside locally with family.
- Traditional residence halls including Chestnut and Beau Halls
- Apartment-style housing for upperclassmen
- Resident Assistants available for student support
Dining & Recreation
Dining and recreational facilities are centered around the Rossin Campus Center, the Hub, and the Commons, providing students with gathering spaces, meal options, and social programming throughout the academic year.
- Rossin Campus Center with dining and student activities
- The Commons dining facility
- The Hub for recreational and social events
Student Life at Washington & Jefferson College
Student Life at Washington & Jefferson College
W&J offers a vibrant campus life where students form a tight-knit community through academics, athletics, Greek life, and more than 80 student organizations. With roughly one-third of students participating in fraternities or sororities and nearly half competing in varsity athletics, there is no shortage of ways to get involved.
Location: Washington, Pennsylvania
Location: Washington, Pennsylvania
Life in Washington, PA
Washington is a historic small city in southwestern Pennsylvania with deep ties to the American frontier era. Located approximately 30 miles south of Pittsburgh, it offers students a safe, walkable community with easy access to the cultural, dining, and professional opportunities of a major metropolitan area.
Proximity to Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is just a 30-minute drive away, offering students access to internships, cultural events, professional sports, and a thriving job market in technology, healthcare, and finance.
Historic Downtown
Washington's downtown features local restaurants, shops, and historic architecture. The city and college have shared a relationship spanning over two centuries since the 1780s.
Outdoor Recreation
The surrounding Washington County area offers scenic parks, trails, and outdoor recreation opportunities in the rolling hills of southwestern Pennsylvania.
Transportation Access
Pittsburgh International Airport is approximately 30 miles away, providing convenient domestic and international travel connections for students from across the country and around the world.
Career Outcomes & Notable Alumni
Career Outcomes & Notable Alumni
Where W&J Graduates Work
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
W&J offers a pre-academic English Language Institute program designed to equip multilingual learners with the English and academic skills needed for successful undergraduate study.
The Office of Career Services provides resume reviews, interview practice, career fair access, and a robust alumni mentor network with over 260 alumni in various career fields available for student connections.
W&J's signature Magellan Project provides funding for students to pursue independent research projects or internships domestically or internationally, giving hands-on professional experience.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Washington & Jefferson College Rankings
Washington & Jefferson College Rankings
Washington & Jefferson College is consistently recognized among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States. The college has earned rankings from U.S. News & World Report, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Niche, and Money Magazine for its academic quality, value, and student outcomes.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Economics | Niche | #158 in America |
| Psychology | Niche | #430 in America |
| English | Niche | #359 in America |
| Biology | Niche | #432 in America |
Features
Washington & Jefferson College is a private liberal arts institution located in Washington, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1781, it is one of the oldest colleges in the United States. With a small student body of around 1,200 undergraduates, W&J emphasizes close faculty-student relationships, a strong liberal arts curriculum, and personalized education. The college has a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, providing individualized academic support. It offers over 30 majors and pre-professional tracks, including pre-law and pre-med. International students are welcomed with dedicated support services. The campus is known for its historic architecture, vibrant student life, and strong alumni network that supports career development.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - May
Location
60 S Lincoln St, Washington, PA 15301
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