Top 3 Information Technology Programs in Washington 2025
University of Washington
Premier public IT program with direct Microsoft and Amazon recruiting partnerships. Strong focus on cloud computing and enterprise systems.
Washington State University
Comprehensive IT curriculum covering cybersecurity, network administration, and database management with excellent industry placement rates.
Seattle University
Small class sizes and personalized attention with strong connections to Seattle's thriving tech ecosystem.
- 1.Washington has 25+ accredited information technology bachelor's programs concentrated in Seattle and Spokane metro areas
- 2.University of Washington ranks #1 in Washington with direct pipelines to Microsoft, Amazon, and other major tech employers
- 3.Washington IT professionals earn median $118,390 annually—significantly above the national median of $97,430
- 4.Seattle metro area hosts headquarters for Microsoft, Amazon, and major regional offices for Google, Meta, and Apple
- 5.Strong emphasis on cloud computing and enterprise systems reflecting regional industry demands from major tech companies
Information Technology Education in Washington State
Washington State offers exceptional opportunities for IT education, anchored by the presence of global tech giants Microsoft and Amazon. The state's universities have developed robust IT programs that directly address industry needs in cloud computing, enterprise systems, and cybersecurity.
From the University of Washington's research-focused programs to the practical, career-oriented offerings at regional universities, Washington provides diverse pathways into the technology sector. The proximity to major tech employers creates unique internship and job placement opportunities unavailable in most other states.
For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national IT bachelor's rankings. Students seeking value should review our most affordable IT programs guide, while those interested in career outcomes can explore our IT career paths overview.
Based on 15 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS Washington May 2024, Washington State Employment Security
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 data
Class size and personalized attention metrics
Washington-specific IT salaries from BLS OEWS data
Acceptance rate indicating program competitiveness
Washington Information Technology Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Washington | Seattle | Public | $12,394 | 85% | 19:1 | 94.8 |
| 2 | Washington State University | Pullman | Public | $11,841 | 71% | 15:1 | 89.2 |
| 3 | Seattle University | Seattle | Private | $50,760 | 82% | 11:1 | 87.5 |
| 4 | Western Washington University | Bellingham | Public | $10,978 | 74% | 18:1 | 85.1 |
| 5 | Central Washington University | Ellensburg | Public | $10,300 | 66% | 17:1 | 82.7 |
| 6 | Eastern Washington University | Cheney | Public | $10,362 | 58% | 20:1 | 80.3 |
| 7 | Pacific Lutheran University | Tacoma | Private | $48,344 | 75% | 12:1 | 79.8 |
| 8 | Seattle Pacific University | Seattle | Private | $49,995 | 73% | 13:1 | 78.5 |
| 9 | Gonzaga University | Spokane | Private | $49,350 | 86% | 12:1 | 78.2 |
| 10 | University of Puget Sound | Tacoma | Private | $58,620 | 80% | 11:1 | 76.9 |
| 11 | Washington State University Vancouver | Vancouver | Public | $11,841 | 65% | 16:1 | 75.4 |
| 12 | The Evergreen State College | Olympia | Public | $9,285 | 55% | 21:1 | 73.8 |
| 13 | City University of Seattle | Seattle | Private | $18,450 | 42% | 15:1 | 71.2 |
| 14 | Northwest University | Kirkland | Private | $36,700 | 61% | 14:1 | 69.5 |
| 15 | Whitworth University | Spokane | Private | $49,200 | 78% | 12:1 | 68.8 |
University of Washington
Seattle, WA • University
Program Highlights
- • 85% graduation rate - highest among Washington public universities
- • Average starting salary of $89,000 for graduates
- • 19:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention
- • $12,394 annual tuition for in-state students
Program Strengths
- Direct recruiting partnerships with Microsoft, Amazon, and Google
- State-of-the-art computing facilities and research labs
- Strong curriculum in cloud computing and enterprise systems
- Excellent internship placement rates (90%+ of students)
- Alumni network throughout Pacific Northwest tech industry
Why Ranked #1
UW's Information Technology program combines rigorous academic foundation with direct industry partnerships. Located in Seattle's tech hub, students benefit from proximity to Microsoft, Amazon, and hundreds of other tech companies.
Washington State University
Pullman, WA • University
Program Highlights
- • 71% graduation rate with strong job placement
- • Comprehensive cybersecurity specialization available
- • 15:1 student-faculty ratio for personalized instruction
- • $11,841 annual tuition - exceptional value
Program Strengths
- Industry-standard certifications integrated into curriculum
- Hands-on labs for networking, security, and database administration
- Strong partnerships with regional businesses and government
- Affordable tuition with excellent value proposition
- Active student technology organizations
Why Ranked #2
WSU offers a comprehensive IT program with strong emphasis on practical skills and industry certifications. The program is well-regarded for its cybersecurity and network administration tracks.
Seattle University
Seattle, WA • University
Program Highlights
- • 82% graduation rate among private institutions
- • Located in Seattle's Capitol Hill near tech companies
- • Strong alumni network in regional technology firms
- • Comprehensive career services and job placement support
Program Strengths
- Small class sizes with 11:1 student-faculty ratio
- Strong liberal arts foundation enhances communication skills
- Excellent connections to Seattle's startup community
- Emphasis on ethical technology and social responsibility
- High-quality internship and co-op opportunities
Why Ranked #3
Seattle University provides intimate class sizes and personalized attention in the heart of Seattle's tech ecosystem. The program emphasizes both technical skills and business acumen.
Washington University Systems and IT Programs
Washington's public university system provides accessible, high-quality IT education through multiple institutions. The University of Washington system leads with flagship programs in Seattle, while Washington State University offers comprehensive IT education across multiple campuses.
Public University System Benefits:
- In-state tuition rates significantly lower than private alternatives
- Strong state funding for technology infrastructure and labs
- Direct partnerships with Washington-based employers
- Transfer agreements with community colleges for seamless pathways
Private Universities: Washington's private institutions, including Seattle University and Pacific Lutheran University, offer smaller class sizes and more personalized attention. These programs often provide stronger liberal arts foundations that complement technical IT skills.
Community College Pathways: Washington's robust community college system provides affordable entry points into IT education. Many students complete general education requirements and foundational IT courses before transferring to four-year institutions.
Career Paths
IT Support Specialist
SOC 15-1232Provide technical support and troubleshooting for computer systems and networks in corporate environments.
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244Design, install, and maintain computer networks for organizations, ensuring optimal performance and security.
Information Security Analyst
SOC 15-1212Plan and carry out security measures to protect computer networks and systems from cyber threats.
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1242Use software to store and organize data, ensuring security, performance, and accessibility for users.
Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1244Install, configure, and maintain computer systems and servers to ensure reliable IT infrastructure.
IT Project Manager
SOC 11-3021Plan and oversee technology projects from initiation to completion, coordinating teams and resources.
IT Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Georgia
| Factor | Public Universities | Private Universities | Community Colleges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Annual Tuition | $11,500 | $48,000 | $4,200 |
| Class Size | Medium (15-25) | Small (8-15) | Small (12-20) |
| Research Opportunities | Extensive | Moderate | Limited |
| Industry Connections | Strong | Strong | Regional |
| Financial Aid | Good | Excellent | Limited |
| Transfer Options | Limited | Limited | Excellent |
Which Should You Choose?
- Direct access to major tech employers like Microsoft and Amazon
- Strong job market with above-average salaries for IT professionals
- Proximity to innovative companies and startup ecosystem
- Excellent internship and co-op opportunities in Seattle metro
- Beautiful Pacific Northwest environment with outdoor recreation
- Lower cost of living (Washington has no state income tax but high housing costs)
- More diverse industry options beyond tech
- Warmer climate year-round
- Larger selection of university programs
- Different cultural and social environments
Frequently Asked Questions About IT Programs in Washington
Related IT Program Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional characteristics for all Title IV institutions
State-specific salary data for IT occupations in Washington, updated annually
State labor market data and employment projections for technology occupations
Starting salary data for IT and computer science graduates
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.