A Legacy of Leadership
As one of the oldest colleges west of the Allegheny Mountains, W&J College has been educating people who become leaders in their professions and communities since 1781. We lead the way in integrating professional readiness with intellectual engagement, graduating students who are prepared for professional success, ready to solve problems and make contributions in as-yet-unimagined ways.
Our Campus
Four historic gates surround our beautiful 65-acre campus and its 55 academic, administrative, recreational, and residential buildings. These include McMillan Hall, one of the oldest college buildings east of the Allegheny Mountains; the modern Swanson Science Center; the newly renovated Clark Family Library, with more collaborative study space; and the James David Ross Family Recreation Center, renovated Salvitti Family Gymnasium, and Eaton Fitness Center. We've come a long way from three log cabins.
Community Connections
There's so much to do and to discover around W&J College! Our campus is located in Washington, Pennsylvania, 30 miles south of Pittsburgh, recently named one of the top cities for Millennials. Whether you want to get outdoors, shop, take in a show or a game, it's all here. Regular shuttle service around town and to Pittsburgh makes it easy to explore. And, with over 20,000 hours of community service last year, we're taking the lead in living, playing, and serving in our community.
We would love to show you around.
Schedule a visit and experience life at W&J!
John C. Knapp, Ph.D.
President and Professor
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A Message from the President
Welcome to Washington & Jefferson College, one of America's oldest and most distinguished liberal arts institutions. We have a proud tradition of preparing students for post-graduation success in a way that few colleges or universities can match.
W&J students discover their unique gifts and interests while benefitting from a personalized educational experience designed to meet the needs of each individual. Our students often graduate with more than one major, and many take advantage of the opportunity to create a customized major of their own. Beyond the classroom, W&J students participate in more than 90 student organizations, play championship varsity sports, develop exceptional leadership qualities, and explore their interests around the world through our acclaimed Magellan Project.
Student success at Washington & Jefferson College begins with a generous financial aid program undergirded by substantial endowed scholarship resources provided by generations of alumni and friends of the college. It continues with devoted faculty mentors who support academic performance every step of the way. And it extends beyond graduation as our network of 15,000 graduates help students and fellow alumni find opportunities in every field of endeavor. Just as important, W&J students graduate in four years - we guarantee it.
Nothing reflects the spirit of W&J more than the experience of living and learning in a community where everyone is known by name. My wife Kelly and I are fortunate to live on campus where we form friendships with our students and frequently host them in our home. As parents of five adult children - all college graduates - we know how important it is to be in a supportive and caring environment during the formative college years. We look forward to the opportunity to get to know you, and will consider it a privilege to be part of your educational experience.
Student to faculty ratio. Most of our classes have fewer than 20 students.
Annual average institutional financial aid for 2018 enrolled freshman.
Free weekend shuttle runs from campus to downtown Pittsburgh each year.
Upcoming Events
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Directions and Travel Information
Whether you are a prospective student or visitor, learn more about preparing for your visit.
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for visitors during on-campus events