Washington Adventist University
WAU
Takoma Park, Maryland 20912
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for health sciences — close-knit campus
Washington Adventist University is a private institution in Takoma Park with particular strength in health sciences and business. With an average SAT of 920, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A small campus of 522 undergraduates with a 7:1 student-faculty ratio. The suburban location offers a balance of campus life and nearby amenities.
40% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $64,249 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $15,026.
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Shock
History & Fun Facts
- •History Halcyon Hall Washington Adventist University was established in 1904 by the Seventh-day Adventist Church as Washington Training College.
- •In 1907, it was renamed Washington Foreign Mission Seminary, in 1914, Washington Missionary College, in 1961, Columbia Union College, and in 2009 received its current name.
- •In 2007, WAU nearly accepted a $25 million bid for the radio station owned by WAU, WGTS 91.
- •WGTS listeners and supporters ran multiple campaigns against the sale for months before the board of trustees voted against selling the radio station in September 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 920
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
46.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
2.2%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$22,750
Programs (69)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
82%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
3
Peer Average
3
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from MD state average + suburban adjustment