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10 Best Colleges for Jobs in Washington for 2026
As college freshmen embark on their academic journeys, one of the most crucial factors in selecting a school is its potential to enhance their job prospects. In an increasingly competitive job market, securing employment after graduation is a top priority for students.
Washington state offers a unique blend of prestigious research universities and quality state colleges, making it an attractive option for students looking to gain a competitive edge in their careers. With a variety of majors designed to meet the demands of today’s labor market, students who choose to study in Washington are well-positioned for success.
To determine which colleges in Washington best prepare their graduates for employment, we analyzed data from IPEDS and College Scorecard. Our findings highlight the institutions that are most effective in helping students transition into the workforce.
Below is a list of the top ten colleges in Washington for job placement:
- Gonzaga University
- Pacific Lutheran University
- Seattle University
- University of Puget Sound
- Washington State University
- University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
- University of Washington-Bothell Campus
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus
- Central Washington University
- Western Washington University
If you’re attending one of these institutions, you’re likely aware of the excellent resources and opportunities available to you. For those exploring their options, continue reading to discover why these schools stand out in preparing students for the modern job market.
How We Determined the Best Schools in Washington for Jobs
Using College Scorecard Data, we identified the colleges in Washington with the highest job placement rates, focusing on employment levels ten years post-graduation.
Our analysis included 44 public and non-profit four-year institutions in Washington that offer at least a bachelor’s degree. Each college was ranked based on the percentage of graduates who secured jobs, with ratings rounded to two decimal places for clarity.
Gonzaga University topped the list with the highest percentage of graduates employed, earning the title of the ‘Best College for Jobs in Washington.’
Best Colleges for Getting a Job in Washington
| Rank | College | Employed |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gonzaga University | 91.73% |
| 2 | Pacific Lutheran University | 91.33% |
| 3 | Seattle University | 90.39% |
| 4 | University of Puget Sound | 90.22% |
| 5 | Washington State University | 90.11% |
| 6 | University of Washington-Tacoma Campus | 89.19% |
| 7 | University of Washington-Bothell Campus | 89.19% |
| 8 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | 89.19% |
| 9 | Central Washington University | 89.12% |
| 10 | Western Washington University | 89.12% |
| 11 | Whitman College | 88.82% |
| 12 | Eastern Washington University | 88.56% |
| 13 | Whitworth University-Adult Degree Programs | 88.48% |
| 14 | Whitworth University | 88.48% |
| 15 | Seattle Pacific University | 88.31% |
| 16 | Saint Martin’s University | 87.74% |
| 17 | Walla Walla University | 87.34% |
| 18 | Northwest University | 85.79% |
| 19 | Bastyr University | 83.96% |
| 20 | Antioch University-Seattle | 82.67% |
| 21 | Heritage University | 82.53% |
| 22 | City University of Seattle | 82.21% |
| 23 | Cornish College of the Arts | 82.09% |
| 24 | Highline College | 81.38% |
| 25 | Cascadia College | 81.35% |
| 26 | Green River College | 81.17% |
| 27 | Yakima Valley College | 81.02% |
| 28 | Bellevue College | 80.56% |
| 29 | Columbia Basin College | 80.33% |
| 30 | Renton Technical College | 79.77% |
| 31 | Pierce College-Fort Steilacoom | 79.73% |
| 32 | The Evergreen State College | 79.38% |
| 33 | Lake Washington Institute of Technology | 78.85% |
| 34 | South Seattle College | 78.41% |
| 35 | Clark College | 77.86% |
| 36 | Skagit Valley College | 77.33% |
| 37 | North Seattle College | 76.34% |
| 38 | Centralia College | 75.59% |
| 39 | Clover Park Technical College | 74.92% |
| 40 | Seattle Central College | 74.85% |
| 41 | Spokane Falls Community College | 74.66% |
| 42 | Olympic College | 73.26% |
| 43 | Peninsula College | 69.29% |
| 44 | Northwest Indian College | 57.95% |
In conclusion, choosing the right college is a pivotal decision that can significantly influence your career trajectory. The colleges listed above have demonstrated their commitment to ensuring their graduates are well-equipped for the job market. By attending one of these institutions, you are investing in your future and positioning yourself for a successful career in Washington.
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
