Washington University of Science and Technology
The Vibe Check
Washington University of Science and Technology feels like a tight-knit, high-tech incubator nestled within the urban sprawl of Alexandria. The campus buzzes with a quiet intensity, where a small student body fosters close collaboration and a focused, career-driven atmosphere. It’s an environment that blends the hustle of the city with a supportive, hands-on learning community.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
The university’s academic identity is anchored in its highly-regarded Computer Science and Business & Marketing programs, which are designed with direct input from industry leaders. With a tiny enrollment of just 302 students, students receive exceptional, personalized attention from faculty in a low-ratio setting that prioritizes practical skills over theoretical lectures. Research opportunities are less about traditional labs and more about project-based learning that mirrors real-world tech and business challenges.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Alexandria
Life in Alexandria offers a vibrant blend of historic charm and modern convenience, with students frequenting the Old Town waterfront for restaurants and festivals. The university's location provides easy access to Washington D.C.'s world-class museums, monuments, and nightlife via the nearby Metro system. Students often spend weekends exploring the diverse food scene, participating in local tech meetups, or biking along the scenic Potomac River trails.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($0):
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Safety Check
The campus is located in a well-managed urban area of Alexandria with standard city safety protocols and campus security measures in place. While the surrounding area is generally safe and bustling, students should practice typical urban awareness, especially when traveling to and from nearby D.C.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Extremely affordable private university tuition at $13,178 flat rate.
- ✓ Highly focused, top-tier programs in Computer Science and Business & Marketing.
- ✓ Intimate class sizes with a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio for personalized mentorship.
- ✓ Prime location in the Alexandria/Washington D.C. area for elite internship and job opportunities.
Cons
- ✗ Very low retention rate of 59.7%, suggesting potential issues with student satisfaction or support.
- ✗ Extremely small student body of 302, which limits social diversity and campus activities.
- ✗ Highly selective acceptance rate of 11.49% makes admission difficult despite small size.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Washington University of Science and Technology is primarily known for its intensive, career-focused programs in Computer Science and Business & Marketing. The university distinguishes itself through a model of small-scale, private education that emphasizes practical skills and direct faculty mentorship, preparing students for immediate entry into the tech and business sectors. Its identity is heavily tied to its strategic location in the Alexandria/D.C. metro area, leveraging the region's robust economy for student opportunities.
Yes, Washington University of Science and Technology is exceptionally difficult to gain admission to. The acceptance rate is a very low 11.49%, placing it among the most selective universities in the nation. This high selectivity indicates that the admissions committee is looking for a small cohort of students with outstanding academic records and a clear, demonstrated passion for its core fields of study.
Campus life is defined by its intimate scale, with a total enrollment of just 302 students fostering a close-knit, collaborative community. The urban setting in Alexandria means student life extends beyond the campus borders, with easy access to city amenities, internships, and cultural attractions in nearby Washington D.C. While there may not be the vast array of clubs found at larger universities, the environment is geared toward focused study and professional networking in a bustling urban landscape.
From a purely tuition perspective, the university offers outstanding value at $13,178 per year, which is significantly lower than most private institutions. When combined with a solid 75.7% graduation rate and access to the high-demand job market in the D.C. area, the potential return on investment is strong. However, prospective students must weigh this against the low 59.7% retention rate and factor in the high cost of living in Alexandria to determine the overall financial picture.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 308
- In-State Tuition $13,178
- Zip Code 22314
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a flat tuition rate of $13,178 for both in-state and out-of-state students, the financial barrier to entry is remarkably low for a private institution. When paired with a strong 75.7% graduation rate and a strategic location in the high-demand D.C. job market, the degree presents a compelling return on investment. The primary financial challenge for students will be managing living costs in an expensive metropolitan area, but the tuition itself is exceptionally affordable.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.