University of Puget Sound: Where the Mountains Meet the Mind

A College That Changes Lives

The University of Puget Sound (UPS), located in Tacoma, Washington, is a liberal arts college is a member of Colleges That Change Lives (CTCL). CTCL is a non-profit comprising of 45 colleges that provide exceptionally meaningful experiences for students.

With it's red-brick, Tudor-style buildings, towering evergreens, and sweeping views of Mt. Rainier, the campus feels both peaceful and inspiring. Home to about 2,400 undergraduates, UPS cultivates a close-knit and supportive community with the laid-back, progressive energy often associated with the Pacific Northwest.

Campus Life & Student Activities

Students balance academics with vibrant campus life. The outdoors play a huge role in student activities at UPS. Options include:

Guided overnight trips and outdoor education courses

Equipment rentals for camping, skiing, and snowshoeing

A free on-campus bike shop offering tune-ups and repairs

About 30% of students join Greek life, though recruitment begins in February, giving first-year students time to form connections outside of fraternities and sororities. Nearly 70% of students live on campus, where housing options include traditional dorms, Craftsman-style houses, and Greek row residences. Athletics are DIII.

Academics & Experiential Learning

UPS is known for its rigorous academics and emphasis on hands-on learning. With an average class size of just 17, students benefit from personal attention and close collaboration with faculty.

Popular majors include:

Business

Psychology

Biology

Environmental Policy

Economics

Politics & International Policy

Asian Studies

Music

Opportunities for applied learning begin as early as freshman year. The Summer Research Program allows students to work independently on faculty-mentored projects for 10 weeks. Students can also engage in community-based learning, apply for paid Summer Fellowship Internships, or participate in the renowned Pac-Rim study abroad program—a UPS-exclusive experience combining academic preparation and immersive travel across Asia.

Who Should Consider UPS?

The University of Puget Sound is an excellent fit for students who are:

Drawn to a liberal arts education with close faculty mentorship

Excited by outdoor adventure and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest

Interested in collaborative, hands-on learning opportunities from day one

Looking for a tight-knit campus community with supportive peers

Eager to explore global experiences, such as the Pac-Rim program

Seeking a school that balances academics, campus life, and adventure

Cost & Financial Aid