Tuition & Fees

Western Washington University

Western Washington University tuition for the seven-quarter degree program is estimated to be $12,800 for residents of Washington State and $23,500 for non-residents. For the State of Washington resident requirements, please see WWU's registrar's office information.

HOUSING and living expenses

For the first quarter of this program, students will attend classes on the WWU campus and live near the University; graduates will be responsible for their own housing and food costs during this time. During the next four quarters, students are provided housing and partial board on or near the Environmental Learning Center. For the final two quarters, students will live near WWU in Bellingham and will provide their own housing. Students are responsible for their own health insurance, books and supplies, transportation, computer and personal outdoor equipment.

North Cascades Institute

North Cascades Institute's Residency fee is $15,850. If all North Cascades Institute and Western Washington University Graduate School application materials are received by January 15th, student will receive a $500 residency fee discount. Discounts are applied to the final residency quarter fees. North Cascades Institute also offers individual scholarships of up to $2000; please contact laura_busby@ncascades.org for more details.

Wilderness First Responder certification is required for this graduate program. You will need your WFR certificate prior to the start of the residency. The estimated cost for certification is $600-$800.

Students are strongly encouraged to have their own transportation. The Learning Center is remotely located along State Route 20 in North Cascades National Park, and the nearest services are 20 miles to the west. Bellingham is approximately two hours from the Learning Center, Seattle is three hours.

Financial Aid and Other Important Links

Students are eligible for educational loans through Western Washington University. Federal financial aid applications are available from the Financial Aid Office. The financial aid application priority deadline is February 15. Be sure to mark work-study on the application if you are interested.

M.Ed. Financial Aid page

Other useful links:

WWU Financial Aid Office for Graduate Students

Graduate Student Funding Sources (pdf)

FAFSA: Free Application for Federal Student Aid

WWU Graduate Funding and Support

We suggest that you investigate other financial aid opportunities available through foundations, government grants, community groups, professional organizations, financial institutions and other sources.