Our story begins with three leaders creating three colleges on the American frontier. Since then, W&J College has emerged as a leading institution with a storied history of doers, dreamers, and achievers: Senators and Congressmen, Hall of Famers, an NFL commissioner, CEOs, chairpersons, space travelers. For over 200 years, W&J College has produced ethical, well-rounded, and informed leaders in all fields and a strong network of alumni to support the next generation.
History of W&J College
Founded in 1781, right after the end of the battles for American independence, W&J College has its origins in three log cabin colleges established by three graduates of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton). Soon after, two of those initial founders joined together as the first trustees for the newly charted Washington Academy, later Washington College. The other founder became headmaster of Canonsburg Academy, later Jefferson College. His students joined him at the new academy. Finally, in 1865, Washington College and Jefferson College unified, establishing Washington & Jefferson College. Since then, Juncta Juvant: Together We Thrive.
W&J College continues to lead, educating individuals who can interpret, analyze, critique, innovate, and communicate the skills employers will always value most. With a practical and liberating arts and sciences curriculum that reflects our history and looks to the future, we're proud to be one of the oldest colleges in the United States.
Academic Excellence
81% Classes with fewer than 20 students
124 Number of FTE faculty
98% Full-time tenure/tenure track faculty with terminal degrees
2021-22 Enrollment
Total Enrollment
566/590 Male/Female Ratio
Minority Students
Pennsylvania Residents
Out-of-State Students
International Students
Accepted Student Profile
1180 Mid 50% SAT (Critical Reading and Math Sections Only)
25-24 Mid 50% ACT (Critical Reading and Math Sections Only)
Most Popular Majors
Psychology
English
History
Economics, Neuroscience, and Computer & Information Studies
Financial Aid Information
100% Students receiving some type of financial aid
84% of financial aid awarded as "gift aid" - meaning no repayment is required
The W&J College On-Time Graduation Guarantee
At W&J College, we guarantee that all students who meet academic expectations will graduate in four years. From the day you arrive on campus, you will experience first-hand how we deliver on our promise. Inside and outside of the classroom, you will receive undivided attention from our dedicated faculty and staff, helping you every step of the way to explore and uncover your passions and academic opportunities.
Mission Statement
The mission of Washington & Jefferson College is to graduate people of uncommon integrity, competence and maturity who are effective lifelong learners and responsible citizens, and who are prepared to contribute substantially to the world in which they live.
To this end, the College promotes the development of skills, knowledge, personal qualities and a worldview that characterizes a well-educated person. All components of the living and learning environment at W&J are designed and intended to support this mission.