What You May Have Heard... and What to Know

You may have heard: “Students lose their faith when they go to college.”

What’s helpful to know:

We build faith at Walla Walla University. Here, students are part of a Christ-focused community that regularly worships together, provides a full suite of campus ministries and service opportunities, and employs Christian mentors who care deeply about students’ spiritual lives. Many students say their faith becomes more personal, grounded, and lived out during their time at WWU. Learn more here.

You may have heard: “WWU is only for students who went to Adventist academies.”

What’s helpful to know:

While it’s true that many of our students graduated from Adventist academies, we also welcome many students from other backgrounds—public schools, Christian schools, and homeschoolers.

We view our physical location (nestled in a picturesque small town in a valley that offers ample access to beauty) as an asset that encourages high levels of campus engagement and helps to build lifelong friendships. Here, campus life is intentionally designed to engage all students so that they feel supported and included as they grow academically, spiritually, and socially.

You may have heard: “WWU isn’t very clear about LGBTQ+ issues.”

What’s helpful to know:

Walla Walla University is a Seventh-day Adventist institution committed to following, and living out, biblical values with both conviction and care. We seek to be clear about our faith-based expectations while also treating every student with dignity, respect, and compassion. Students are encouraged to ask questions, grow spiritually, and engage thoughtfully within a Christ-centered community. We welcome open, respectful conversations.

You may have heard: “WWU is too expensive.”

What’s helpful to know:

Most families do not pay the published “sticker” price. Nearly all students—95 percent—receive scholarships and/or other forms of financial aid, making the average out-of-pocket cost around $7,000 per year. For those who qualify, additional assistance like the NPUC Partnership Grant often make WWU more affordable than families expect. We provide clear tools and personal support to help families understand real out-of-pocket costs early in the process.

You may have heard: “Students won’t be prepared for real careers after WWU.”

What’s helpful to know:

Walla Walla University combines strong academics with hands-on experience, mentoring, and service opportunities. Our students pursue careers, graduate and professional studies, and mission opportunities in a wide range of fields.

Nursing students average more than a 90 percent first-time pass rate on the nursing licensure exam (NCLEX). WWU ranks third in Washington state for the percentage of graduates with bachelor’s degrees who go on to obtain a doctorate in science or engineering, and 100 percent of auto technology grads find a job in their field. These are just a few of many statistics that illustrate the value of a WWU education.

WWU students have exclusive access to internships/experiential learning at some of the largest companies in the region, including CBS, Disney, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the U.S. Coast Guard. Recent graduates are enjoying successful careers at top companies and organizations across the country, including Amazon, Columbia, Alaska Airlines, JPMorgan Chase, AdventistHealth, to name a few.

You may have heard: “College is a big leap, and students are mostly on their own.”

What’s helpful to know:

Walla Walla is known for a close-knit, supportive campus. Students benefit from smaller classrooms (13:1 student-to-faculty ratio) with an average class size of 17, caring faculty and staff, resident life support, and services that care for students academically, emotionally, and spiritually. While it’s true that they gain more independence in college, WWU is committed to walking with them and supporting them every step of the way.

You may have heard: “Pastors don’t really have a role once students leave for college.”

What’s helpful to know:

Pastors are mission partners with WWU, and a vital part of their students’ lives during college. We continue what you started by preparing and equipping students to live out their calling. Wherever they go from here after they graduate, we’re counting on pastors like you to receive them back into the church to carry on our mission partnership.

Questions? Need help? Your dedicated recruiter can help you support your students and their families: Carlos Martinez at carlos.martinez@wallawalla.edu or (509) 527-2327.