About City University of Seattle
The financial picture tells a concerning story. Students pay an average net price of $35,049 after aid, which is steep considering the modest tuition of $14,589. Only 13% of students receive financial aid, suggesting limited support for those who need it most. Graduates earn a median of $69,460 ten years after graduation with typical debt of $25,000. The 53% loan repayment rate indicates many struggle to keep up with monthly payments of $265.
The 17% six-year graduation rate raises red flags about student success. A 0% retention rate means virtually no students return for their second year. These numbers suggest serious challenges with student support or program quality that prospective students should investigate carefully before enrolling.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 9:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 8.0%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 16.7%
- Retention Rate
- 0.0%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $69,460
- Carnegie Classification
- Doctoral/Professional University
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Certificate | $107,256 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $94,408 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $74,200 |
| Special Education and Teaching. | Master | $57,995 |
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Master | $57,017 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $56,851 |
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Master | $56,157 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $50,856 |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Master | $44,356 |
| Education, General. | Bachelor | $43,240 |
Campus Life
The 9:1 student-faculty ratio creates an intimate academic environment where professors know your name. Students often gather at local cafes between classes, taking advantage of Seattle's legendary coffee culture. Weekends might include exploring Pike Place Market, hiking nearby trails when the weather clears, or attending concerts at venues throughout the city. The quarter system keeps academics moving at a quick pace.
With 92.6% of graduates finding employment, many students land internships at Amazon, Microsoft, or the countless startups that call Seattle home. The campus culture reflects Seattle's laid-back yet ambitious spirit, where flannel meets innovation and students balance serious academics with the city's outdoor recreation opportunities.
- Setting
- City-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 54 beds
- Calendar System
- Quarter
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1973
Campus Safety (2023)
No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 36°–48°F
- July Avg
- 57°–77°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 36.5"
- Annual Snowfall
- 3.8"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 44.0%
- Women
- 56.0%
- White
- 20.8%
- Black
- 6.5%
- Hispanic
- 12.0%
- Asian
- 5.8%
- In-State Students
- 33.3%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 12.8%
Location
- Address
- Seattle, Washington 98121
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $69,460
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $70,456
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $48,500
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 53.0%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $265/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $25,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the graduation rate at City University of Seattle?
Only 16.7% of students graduate within six years at City University of Seattle. The 0% retention rate indicates serious challenges with student persistence from year to year. This small private university struggles to keep students enrolled and on track to degree completion.
How much does City University of Seattle cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $35,049 annually at City University of Seattle. Despite tuition listed at $14,589, very few students receive financial aid, with only 12.84% getting any assistance. The high net cost reflects limited institutional aid availability at this small Seattle institution.
What is the student-faculty ratio at City University of Seattle?
City University of Seattle maintains a 9:1 student-faculty ratio with total enrollment of 1,091 students. This intimate academic environment allows for personalized attention in classes. The university operates on a quarter system, providing flexibility in course scheduling and accelerated degree completion.
What do graduates of City University of Seattle typically earn?
City University of Seattle graduates earn a median salary of $69,460 ten years after graduation. The 92.6% employment rate shows strong job placement despite graduation challenges. Graduates typically leave with $25,000 in debt and monthly loan payments of $265.
Where do students live at City University of Seattle?
City University of Seattle houses only 54 students on campus despite having over 1,000 enrolled. Most students commute or find off-campus housing in Seattle's competitive rental market. Room and board costs $11,613 annually for the limited on-campus options available.
Is City University of Seattle diverse?
City University of Seattle serves a diverse student body with only 20.81% white students and significant representation across ethnic groups. Women comprise 56% of enrollment while men make up 44%. Two-thirds of students come from out-of-state, drawn to this urban Seattle campus founded in 1973.
