Overview
Heritage University was founded in 1982 on the Yakama Indian Reservation in the Yakima Valley of Washington State, established specifically to provide higher education access to Native American, Latino, and other underserved populations in the region. Originally created in partnership with the Yakama Nation, the university has grown from a small commuter institution into a respected regional college known for its teacher education, nursing, and social work programs. It has consistently been recognized for its role in expanding college access to first-generation and low-income students in rural Central Washington.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Toppenish, Washington |
| Founded | 1982 |
| Total students | 1,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 13:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 63% |
| Graduation rate | 40% |
| Average starting salary | $42,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $21,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $21,000 |
| Room & board | $9,500 |
| Average financial aid | $16,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 95% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.0 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Education
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Business Administration
- Psychology
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.