Lake Stevens, WA, is a beautiful and thriving city located just northeast of Seattle. While the city itself doesn’t have large universities within its borders, Lake Stevens residents benefit from excellent higher education options in the greater Snohomish and King County area. Both public and private colleges offer a variety of degree programs, from technical certificates to advanced research-based degrees, making it a fantastic region for students seeking quality education.
Top Public Colleges & Universities Near Lake Stevens
University of Washington – Bothell – Just a short drive south, UW Bothell is a highly respected branch of the University of Washington. It offers strong programs in STEM fields, business, nursing, and the arts. Students enjoy small class sizes while benefiting from the broader UW network.
Everett Community College – Located only minutes from Lake Stevens, EvCC is a popular choice for students seeking affordable associate degrees, transfer programs, and specialized career training. Their nursing and aviation programs are particularly well-known.
Cascadia College – Situated in neighboring Bothell, Cascadia is known for its innovative sustainability curriculum, as well as strong programs in business, computer science, and general education transfer pathways.
Edmonds College – About 30 minutes away, Edmonds College offers a wide array of technical and academic programs, from visual arts to engineering and healthcare. Their vibrant campus life is a big draw for many students.
Central Washington University – Lynnwood Center – For students seeking a university degree close to home, CWU-Lynnwood delivers bachelor’s and graduate programs in business, IT, education, and more, all in a convenient location for Lake Stevens residents.
Top Private Colleges & Universities Near Lake Stevens
Seattle Pacific University – Located in Seattle, SPU is a reputable private Christian university well known for its teacher education, psychology, business, and health science programs. Its supportive community is a great fit for many Lake Stevens students.
Northwest University – Situated in Kirkland, Northwest is a faith-based university lauded for its programs in ministry, business, nursing, and education. Its scenic campus and caring faculty contribute to an enriching student experience.
DigiPen Institute of Technology – Based in Redmond, DigiPen is world-renowned for its programs in video game design, computer engineering, and digital art. Creative and tech-oriented students from Lake Stevens will find exceptional opportunities here.
City University of Seattle – With flexible online and in-person options, CityU serves adult learners and working professionals in the Seattle metro area, offering degrees in business, education, and information technology.
Seattle University – In downtown Seattle, Seattle U is known for its social justice focus and strong programs in business, law, health sciences, and engineering. The inclusive campus culture welcomes diverse learners.
These colleges and universities ensure that Lake Stevens students have access to outstanding education, supportive faculty, and resources to pursue their dreams—no matter their field of interest. Whether you’re seeking a public or private education, you’ll find a perfect fit close to home in the Lake Stevens area.