About Our System

For more than 150 years, Washington’s higher education system has been an important catalyst in the development of the state’s human and economic potential. The state's public and private institutions provide an array of academic programs that serve an expanding and increasingly diverse population.

The Higher Education Coordinating Board plays an important role in shaping the state’s postsecondary education system. It helps ensure the public’s investment in higher education continues to support high-quality educational programs that produce graduates who will lead our state to new levels of success and prosperity.

Colleges and Universities in Washington
Washington is home to a wide range of postsecondary institutions, from major research universities like the University of Washington and Washington State University, to religious schools and private career colleges.

Demographics
Washington students come from all regions of the state and represent a wide range of family income levels and diversity.

Funding
The Higher Education Coordinating Board is responsible for working collaboratively to identify budget priorities and levels of funding for higher education, including the baccalaureate institutions and state financial aid programs.

Maintaining High Standards
The Higher Education Coordinating Board is responsible for promoting and ensuring high-quality postsecondary education. This includes protecting higher education consumers, matching higher education investments to state needs, and ensuring the quality of college programs for veterans.