Seattle Pacific University
Seattle, WA, USA

Reviews

Seattle Pacific University

Benjamin from Wilsonville, OR

a current student here
16 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Seattle Pacific University is a small school, but the educational quality is wonderful. The professors teach every class themselves, and they are all always ready to meet and talk about your education. Furthermore, the professors themselves are actively engaged in teaching the students, and they love us just as much as we love them. The educational programs available are excellent as well, ranging from one of the top pre-med programs in the nation to an astounding Theology school. Personally, as a School of Theology major, I have learned so much about Christian History and Ministerial Teaching that I never knew about. Even better, this knowledge will help me in my own career plans, and isn't just about memorizing facts for the test.
Am enjoying being here
Seattle Pacific speaks about fostering a sense of community, and that is something I truly feel here. The residence halls are excellent places to meet new people, and to form lasting friendships. The University Scholars program, which I am a part of, furthers this by placing students in a special program that creates a group bond that exists even outside of classes. Community is perhaps the best word to describe Seattle Pacific, one that includes even the staff and professors, who all love to speak with students on anything ranging from classes to personal life issues. I honestly can't imagine a better school for people who truly are seeking a Christian community.
Bang for the buck
I'll admit, this school is not cheap. Of course, most private schools are not, and even with a $10,000 dollar scholarship, it's still hard to pay for school. However, the price is by far worth it, both for the quality education and for the strong community. Someone who is looking only for a good education would no doubt find it not as valuable, but the entire package of Seattle Pacific is totally worth the price. And Financial Services is available to help you find ways to pay for school, as well; they don't just leave you hanging to figure it out yourself.
Tips for prospective students
Be ready to examine your core convictions while you are here; while you won't be forced to believe anything, there is a very large emphasis on discovering what you yourself have faith in, and not necessarily what everyone else around you believes. Be open-minded, but don't think you have to radically change what you believe. Be ready to grow.
Great for these types of students
Christian students who own their faith, students who want a strong college community, students who want lots of opportunities to get involved, students seeking a good education both inside and outside of the classroom.

Danielle from Hillsboro, OR

a current student here
9 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Academics at SPU are fantastic. You will never be taught by a TA, and our profs love what they're teaching. You will also never be in a class (even a gen ed class!) with more than 100 students; most classes have 20-40 students. I'm really being challenged in my concepts of faith, science, politics, and how world change occurs. The University Scholars program, which accepts 40 students a year, is a great books program that replaces your core classes and incorporates all sorts of disciplines taught by the best profs at the university. I'm a part of it and it is definitely worth the extra essay when you apply.
Am enjoying being here
SPU is a school with a lot going on. There are tons of student clubs with events to attend; the dorms put on root beer keggers and dance parties; student council organizes awesome events like talent show, open mic, concerts, group, 3-on-3 basketball tournaments for charity. There is so much to do! And dorm life is great. The lifestyle doesn't involve a lot of alcohol or drugs. It's low-pressure and still tons of fun.
Bang for the buck
SPU is pretty expensive, but don't let it throw you off. There are a lot of scholarships that can really lower costs for you. I got an academic scholarship and a leadership scholarship, as well as some grants, and my roommate got a theatre and music scholarship that lowered costs to the same as a state school. The atmosphere and academics are worth it!
Tips for prospective students
Apply for as many scholarships as you can--it will pay off. Also make sure you apply for University Scholars if you are any good at writing, or if you're just interested in getting better at writing. You'll do a lot of essays but it's worth it to have all the school's best professors inviting you to their office whenever you want help! Apply for housing as soon as possible, and try to get into Ashton or Hill (they are commonly known as the friendliest and best halls). And make sure to schedule an entrance interview; it's not required, but it really helps the admissions office get to know you and helps you get to know the school.
Great for these types of students
SPU has one of the most successful nursing programs in the nation, so if you're thinking about nursing this is a great school. We also have a popular business school and a fantastic English program. (English students will have great internship opportunities at SPU!) If you don't mind rain, it's a great place for you; if you like getting involved in community service and charity, there are tons of opportunities for that at SPU as well. And if you like books or music, Seattle has a great artsy scene that you'll really enjoy.

Elissa from Kent, WA

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I have learned a lot about myself and who I am as a Christian. When you live on campus in the dorms, you are given the opportunity to meet fellow Christians that can help you learn where you are in your walk with God, and how you can get back on track with your relationship with Him.

As far as classes go, I am taking upper division courses specific for my major, so I'm not sure how the general classes are. However, I have heard great things about amazing professors that teach good, valuable information. With the courses I am taking for my education degree, all of my classes are integrated together, where information from one class is directly applied to the next. They all link together to where my knowledge in each area is increasing relationally, instead of focusing on one subject and forgetting everything I've ever learned about any other class.
Am enjoying being here
I love the location of being a good walk away from downtown Seattle, but far enough away from the city that your studies aren't being interrupted by constant sirens or car alarms. We also have a great cafeteria that provides multiple options at every meal. It is also very well known for its amazing cookies! The people here are varied so much that it keeps everything interesting. Even though this is a Christian university, having a Christian faith is not mandatory for attending the school. If you are not a Christian, you will still find a place to fit in with our community of students.
Bang for the buck
In my specific courses, I have learned more about my major and am getting plenty of attention by advisers making sure that I am following my track for graduation with my desired degree and certification. All of the people are so helpful in getting you set up with a plan for your entire stay at SPU, and making sure you are able to follow through with it. Although this school does cost a very pretty penny, it is the experience, education, and educators that make the entire thing worth it.
Tips for prospective students
One major tip for prospective students is that if you decide to come to SPU, get with your adviser early to schedule your desired degree. When I first came, I was able to work with my adviser to plan out all three years in advance for me to graduate with my degree. This will make life a lot easier for when class registration rolls around and everybody starts worrying about finding what classes they need to take. You will already have it all right there in front of you, with a couple of options for if any of your classes have already been filled. Which leads me to another tip... If you are in a state that allows Running Start, or any other program to get college credit while still in high school, do it! It makes things so much more simple, and it also helps balance out the cost of the university when you are able to cut down a year or two for having those classes already taken.
Great for these types of students
In my opinion, Seattle Pacific University is perfect for any type of student. Whether you are a Christian or not, you will be accepted. Whether you leave high school with college credit or not, the faculty will work with you to figure out what major you want, or how to plan classes to fulfill that degree. Whether you are an extremely social person or not, each of the four dorms has a different personality that will fit you perfectly.

Lucy from Seattle, WA

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The classroom setting is personable, extremely informative, and fosters individual responsibility and global and educational awareness.
Am enjoying being here
I moved from Tennessee to attend college here, and I could not have made a better choice. The housing is accommodating, classes are interesting and diverse, Professors are prepared and know their students by first names, the food is delectable, and the city of Seattle surrounds the campus with its progressiveness.
Bang for the buck
Seattle Pacific University is a private college, and even with scholarships and financial assistance I am still paying a fairly significant sum, and hold a part-time job to offset this. However, it is worth it for the genuine informative education and loving community I am blessed to partake in everyday.
Tips for prospective students
Throughout the application process find ways to insert personal insights about you. Admissions staff read hundreds and hundreds of applications. Find a way to make yours stand out; this will go a longer way than you could ever imagine. Upon arrival, don't overload yourself immediately and cause unwanted stress and negative circumstances for yourself later. Ease yourself into the community around you; it is very welcoming and open with a spot for everyone.
Great for these types of students
Seattle Pacific University is accommodating to every type of student, the real test is if the students allow themselves to be a part of Seattle Pacific University community. Art programs, athletics, medical, international, and all other focuses of classrooms and extracurriculars are encompassed withing Seattle Pacific University, all students must do is decide which ones to partake and excel in.

Caleb from Richland, WA

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Not only am I learning a lot, but I've found I'm enjoying learning more than ever! The classes here are very interesting especially the university core classes.
Am enjoying being here
The atmosphere is very family-like and friendly. There's lots to do around the school since we're practically in downtown seattle. I love being here!
Bang for the buck
It is very expensive but I believe it's very high quality education. I have loved all of my professors, and they have all been masters of their craft.
Tips for prospective students
Be ready for diversity!
Great for these types of students
If you're looking for a Christian community, this is the school for you. They also have a good music technology program.

Jessica from Creswell, OR

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The class sizes are small. The professors are actively engaged in their students life. You can tell they care about their subject and their students. All my professors have been willing to put in extra hours to make sure I fully understand the material. There are a variety of classes and majors to choose from.
Am enjoying being here
The community is exceptional. I have never felt so accepted. After only a few months, I can tell I have made some life long friends. Dorm life is fun! The school makes an effort to keep students involved in campus activities. There is always something to do. And if you can't find something that interests you on campus, SPU is located in the heart of Seattle!
Bang for the buck
Its a fairly expensive school, but they award very good scholarships. Even though I am paying a little bit more for this school than I would for a state school, the experience is priceless. I wouldn't trade it for anything.
Tips for prospective students
The Christian aspect is a huge part of SPU. You won't be forced to believe anything, but you will be encouraged to discover what you believe. Be ready to meet students who are very active in their faith.
Take part in as many campus activities as possible. They are there for a reason! These will help you get engaged and make lifelong friends. This will make for a better experience all together. Live on campus and leave your dorm door open.
Great for these types of students
This university is especially great for students seeking an education firmly rooted in faith.

Nicole from Lake Stevens, WA

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors are amazing and will help you with whatever you need. My English professor had us go on a class field trip to see a movie that had to do with what we were learning about. Another one of my professors spent 2.5 hours with me and a few others going over information for the quiz the next day, staying well past her office hours. SPU is challenging but you really enhance your learning and get so much out of the experience.
Am enjoying being here
The halls have so many great traditions and people are so friendly. I meet new people everyday! Dorm life is amazing and all about what you make it. The professors are great, the people are great, and the city is less than 2 miles away. There is so much to do you can never get bored!
Bang for the buck
I have friends at big schools and they have 500 people in their classes. SPU has way less than that, with the biggest classes being about 100. My classes are generally about 20-30 people. Being at a private school is definitely worth it, with small classes, great food, fun people, and amazing professors!
Tips for prospective students
The friends you make at the beginning of the year are not necessarily the people you will be friends with later. Make the most of every situation and don't be afraid to be friendly and outgoing. College is what you make out of it! Make sure you are just able to to balance your time, you'll regret it later if you don't. By the way, sharing a bathroom with 35 other people is not nearly as bad as one may expect, I promise!

Amy from Seattle, WA

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The teachers here are great for the most part but like every school there are the good and the bad teachers. The courses here will challenge you if you allow yourself to be chanllenged.
Am enjoying being here
The community here, no matter how corny it sounds, is amazing! I love the people here and I have already made life long friends here! I have never had so many close friendships before in my life. If you want to be involved you can get involved! I love being here so much!
Bang for the buck
The school is a bit pricey, I have to say, but it is worth it in my opinion because of the quality of life you get to lead here. This school, even if you cannot afford it, will help you make it possible. They want you to be able to come here. Unlike most schools, they offer you scholarships first and then they hand you the loans.
Tips for prospective students
If you are interested, start researching the school earlier because the faster you know if you want to go the earlier you can apply. Also the earlier you apply the more financial aid you receive and the more priority you are given.
Great for these types of students
This school is great for those who want to have fun and not the kind of fun where you just go out and party all night and get drunk at. This school will challenge your faith if you let it and it's perfect for if you want to get involved and learn a lot as well.

Colin from Kirkland, WA

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am an English major and Philosophy minor, and I am currently enrolled in an English literature history, literature analysis, and logic class. I have already learned a lot in the first three weeks. There is a great wealth of knowledge to tap into, and the professors are very personable. I feel that by the time I graduate, I will be plenty prepared with the knowledge I gained from my English major.
Am enjoying being here
I love Seattle. I am thoroughly convinced that the Northwest is the best part of America. SPU is located in Queen Anne, which is a beautiful neighborhood that borders Fremont and Ballard. This is great for audiophiles like myself, because of the sheer number of record stores a store distance away. The campus is very pretty, especially in fall, as it is now, and it provides a great environment to live in. The people are super nice as well, and socialites will have plenty of friends to be made here.
Bang for the buck
SPU is certainly not a cheap school, but I am feeling more confident that in the end it will have been worth the price. Food and housing are both great (I live in Emerson Hall). The education is very extensive and you learn a lot. You definitely get what you pay for, which is a lot.
Tips for prospective students
It's a great experience so far. Just don't forget to study!
Great for these types of students
There is certainly a big music scene is Seattle, and it is also present at SPU. If you're into music, art, or writing, this is definitely a great place for it. I've also heard good thing about the business program, but I am not very knowledgeable about it.

Cydnie - Poulsbo, WA

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Great for these types of students
SPU is great for all types of students. We're actually very diverse and people from all over attend and it is very cool to see different cultures and being able to mingle with them.
Academic Rigor
There are no dress codes as you are an adult now and your choices effect you as a person. Our school colors are burgundy and white and they're very wonderful.
In three sentences
SPU is a truly amazing school. Has a ton of different types of opportunities for everyone. Beautiful school as in the location, landscape and people are extremely welcoming.
Greek Life
There is unfortunately no Greek life at all. As many private christan schools do not have.
Bang for the buck
SPU is worth every penny. The campus is beautiful and well taken care of. The people and staff are wonderful and helpful. As your classes will be on the smaller side, you're able to actually get to know your professors and vice versa. The food on campus isn't bad, campus is small, but not too small. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes to walk across campus, if that. SPU gets every bang out of our bucks.
What to do for fun
I think for fun most students just sit outside and read or study as the campus has many different hidden nooks and cranies. Also, the campus is close to queen anne, which had a ton of things to do, as well as Fremont, which is just across the bridge. Many students like to venture and explore downtown Seattle, which is a truly incredible city.
Food and Dining
Food is very good, I was honestly surprised as I was expecting typical cafeteria food, but proved wrong. There are also many different places you could go to eat with different options.
Clubs and Activities
Intermerals are very big, as well as our soccer and basketball teams. There are many clubs to be a part of. It's a great way to get to meet new people who have similar interests as you whether it be sports, hobbies, and majors.
Campus Safety
Campus security is great. You'll always see them driving around and don't hesitate to help anyone from danger or if they're hurt and on crutches, they'll give you a ride. I feel extremely safe. I also like how there are 2 numbers, one for a real emergency and another for other issues such as locked out of the building, crutches, so on.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Every dorm does a welcoming traditions, and every one is different. Each floors do different holiday traditions as well, such as my dorm floor did a Christmas morning tradition with an early rise, story telling and breakfast. Also, many dorms do a tradition with big sisters, which are the upper classmen for the freshmen, and it's super cute. They leave you notes to wake up to and gave you presents for Christmas. In the middle of the square, which ironically is a circle, if you stand in the middle and clap, it squeaks. As well as there's a little circle where if you face the square hole in the wall, it echos. Very neat and fun to find new hidden quirks.
Dorm Life
I have just finished my first quater of living in a dorm. I live in a triple, meaning I have 2 roommates and I honestly wouldn't change a thing. I love the family feel of the floor as well as a dorm hall. Every dorm is different in many different ways. But the school Des a fairly good job of matching you in the place to best suit you.
Tips for prospective students
I hightly recommend planning a visit to get the full feel and experience of our beautiful campus. Also, as it is a private school, it is very expensive, but truly worth it. I would just suggest you save as much money as possible, apply for all scholarships and grants that you qualify for, as every penny will surely count. SPU is Christan affiliated, but it's not required as all opportunities are there but everything is up to whether you want to be a part or not.