Seattle is one of the most highly educated major cities in the United States, supported by major universities, public schools, private institutions, and a strong library system. The city is a regional center for research, medicine, engineering, design, and the arts.
Notable institutions include:
- **University of Washington** — The state's flagship public research university, with a major campus in Seattle and global strength in medicine, engineering, computer science, and public policy. - **Seattle University** — A private Jesuit university on First Hill, known for law, business, public affairs, and undergraduate education. - **Seattle Pacific University** — A private Christian university in the Queen Anne area. - **Seattle Central College** — A prominent public college on Capitol Hill, part of the Seattle Colleges system. - **North Seattle College** — Serves north Seattle with transfer, workforce, and technical programs. - **South Seattle College** — Offers academic transfer, career training, and applied bachelor's programs. - **Cornish College of the Arts** — Historically important in arts education in Seattle; institutional structure has changed over time, so current status should be checked. - **Seattle Public Schools** — The city's main public school district, operating elementary, middle, and high schools across Seattle.
Well-known schools and educational resources include:
- **Garfield High School** - **Roosevelt High School** - **Ballard High School** - **Cleveland STEM High School** - **The Northwest School** - **Lakeside School** - **The Seattle Public Library** system, especially the Central Library
Seattle also has strong vocational, technical, and continuing education offerings, along with museums, research institutes, and community organizations that support lifelong learning.