Top 3 Information Technology Programs in Washington 2025
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
319 Information Technology graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
268 Information Technology graduates annually, 92% graduation rate
Western Washington University
128 Information Technology graduates annually, 99% graduation rate
- 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.
Washington Information Technology Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | — | 95.1 |
| 2 | University of Washington-Tacoma Campus | Tacoma, WA | Public | $11,524 | 92% | — | 82.2 |
| 3 | Western Washington University | Bellingham, WA | Public | $7,997 | 99% | — | 72 |
| 4 | Whitman College | Walla Walla, WA | Private | $61,070 | 88% | — | 61 |
| 5 | Columbia Basin College | Pasco, WA | Public | $5,514 | 97% | — | 59.6 |
| 6 | Renton Technical College | Renton, WA | Public | $4,673 | 65% | — | 52.7 |
| 7 | Eastern Washington University | Cheney, WA | Public | $7,294 | — | — | 51.2 |
| 8 | City University of Seattle | Seattle, WA | Private | $13,965 | — | — | 51 |
| 9 | University of Washington-Bothell Campus | Bothell, WA | Public | $11,524 | 69% | — | 50.8 |
| 10 | Yakima Valley College | Yakima, WA | Public | $4,623 | 55% | — | 50.3 |
| 11 | Olympic College | Bremerton, WA | Public | $4,197 | 85% | — | 49.7 |
| 12 | Central Washington University | Ellensburg, WA | Public | $7,021 | — | — | 48.7 |
| 13 | Washington State University | Pullman, WA | Public | $10,976 | — | — | 43 |
| 14 | Saint Martin's University | Lacey, WA | Private | $43,600 | — | — | 41.1 |
| 15 | Spokane Falls Community College | Spokane, WA | Public | $3,195 | — | — | 34.2 |
| 16 | Whatcom Community College | Bellingham, WA | Public | $3,633 | 78% | — | 34.1 |
Top 5 Information Technology Programs in Washington: Side-by-Side
| School | U of Washington | U of Washington-Tacoma | Western Washington | Whitman College | Columbia Basin College |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,524 | $11,524 | $7,997 | $61,070 | $5,514 |
| Graduation Rate | 97% | 92% | 99% | 88% | 97% |
| Annual Graduates | 319 | 268 | 128 | 22 | 8 |
| Acceptance Rate | 43% | 83% | 91% | 50% | N/A |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Private | Public |
| Score | 95.1/100 | 82.2/100 | 72.0/100 | 61.0/100 | 59.6/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Information Technology in Washington
Washington offers 16 bachelor's-level information technology programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Washington-Seattle Campus, University of Washington-Tacoma Campus, Western Washington University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $101,661 in the Washington market.
A bachelor's in information technology typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Information Technology Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Information Technology Bachelor's Programs in Washington
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Washington | $11,524 | 97% | 319 | 95.1 |
| #2 U of Washington-Tacoma | $11,524 | 92% | 268 | 82.2 |
| #3 Western Washington | $7,997 | 99% | 128 | 72.0 |
Top Information Technology Schools for Master's Degrees in Washington
For graduate study, Washington offers 6 master's-level information technology programs. Leading institutions include University of Washington-Seattle Campus, University of Washington-Tacoma Campus, Western Washington University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Washington reaching $188,799 or more.
Top 3 Information Technology Master's Programs in Washington
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Washington | $11,524 | 97% | 549 | 95.1 |
| #2 U of Washington-Tacoma | $11,524 | 92% | 90 | 63.4 |
| #3 Western Washington | $7,997 | 99% | 23 | 53.6 |
Most Affordable Information Technology Colleges in Washington
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable information technology programs in Washington are at Spokane Falls Community College ($3,195/year), Whatcom Community College ($3,633/year), Olympic College ($4,197/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Washington's competitive tech salaries.
At Spokane Falls Community College, a 4-year degree costs approximately $12,780 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $101,661, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.2 years.
Most Affordable Information Technology Programs in Washington (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Spokane Falls Community... | $3,195 | $12,780 | 0.2 years | Public |
| #2 Whatcom Community College | $3,633 | $14,532 | 0.2 years | Public |
| #3 Olympic College | $4,197 | $16,788 | 0.3 years | Public |
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Seattle, WA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,524 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 319 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 43%
- • Ranking Score: 95.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 319 information technology graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 95.1 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (319 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (43% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The ABET-accredited B.S. in Information Technology program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving with mandatory internship experience. Unlike Computer Science or Computer Engineering, it prioritizes deployment, configuration, and development over theoretical concepts, focusing on application-based learning in system design, networking, security, programming, web development, and data science.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •Precalculus
- •Introduction to Programming
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.5
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Internship Required
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
Tacoma, WA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,524 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 268 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 83%
- • Ranking Score: 82.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 268 information technology graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 82.2 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (268 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (83% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The ABET-accredited B.S. in Information Technology program emphasizes practical, application-based learning with hands-on experience including a required internship, focusing on deployment and configuration over theoretical concepts to prepare students for real-world problem-solving in emerging technology trends.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •Precalculus (TMATH 115 & 116 or TMATH 120)
- •Introduction to Programming (TCSS 142)
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.5 cumulative prerequisite GPA minimum, with competitive applicants typically having 3.0 and higher
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Internship Required
Western Washington University
Bellingham, WA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,997 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 128 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 91%
- • Ranking Score: 72.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 128 information technology graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 72.0 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (128 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (91% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Whitman College
Walla Walla, WA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $61,070 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 88% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 22 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 50%
- • Ranking Score: 61.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 88% graduation rate
- 22 information technology graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 61.0 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (88%), program size (22 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (50% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Columbia Basin College
Pasco, WA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $5,514 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 8 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 59.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 8 information technology graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 59.6 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (8 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Columbia Basin College's Computer and Information Technology Certificate program offers a focused 30-credit pathway covering essential IT fundamentals including programming, database systems, and computer security. The program provides transfer opportunities to four-year institutions and maintains quality standards with a minimum 2.5 GPA requirement for computer science courses.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.5
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 30 credits
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.
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.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Washington
IT Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Georgia
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
Based on 15 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Information Technology degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific information technology salaries from BLS OES 2024
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.