Campus Living: Seattle University's On-Campus Student Population

Seattle University is a private Jesuit university in Seattle, Washington. It is the largest independent university in the Northwestern United States, with over 7,500 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs. The university has a total undergraduate enrollment of 4,171, with a gender distribution of 39% male students and 61% female students. So, how many students live on campus? Well, 55% of students live in college-owned, -operated, or -affiliated housing, and they must do so for the first two years of their undergraduate degree unless they live within 20 miles of the campus.

55% of students live in campus housing

Seattle University is a private Jesuit university in Seattle, Washington. It is the largest independent university in the Northwestern United States, with over 7,500 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs within six schools. The university has a total undergraduate enrollment of 4,171, with a gender distribution of 39.4% male students and 60.6% female students. Notably, 55% of the students live in college-owned, -operated, or -affiliated housing, while 46% live off campus.

On-campus housing is an integral part of the student experience at Seattle University. The university requires undergraduate students to live in dorms during their first two years, unless they reside within 20 miles of the campus. This policy encourages a vibrant and connected community, with a range of housing options available. Bellarmine Hall, affectionately known as "Bell," is centrally located and accommodates around 400 students in a traditional dormitory-style setup. Campion Hall, or "Camp," is the tallest and largest dormitory, housing approximately 650 residents. These residences provide a convenient and comfortable living environment, often with stunning views of the city, and easy access to various student services, health facilities, classrooms, and more.

The university offers a range of housing options to cater to diverse student needs. In addition to the traditional dormitory-style accommodations, there are apartments available for single students, as well as special housing for students with disabilities. The university ensures that campus housing is accessible to all unmarried students, regardless of their year of study. The application process for on-campus housing is straightforward, with specific procedures for first-year, continuing, transfer, and graduate students.

Living on campus at Seattle University provides numerous benefits. Students can take advantage of convenient dining options, with various campus dining locations offering delicious meals to fit their daily schedules. The residences are designed with students' well-being in mind, featuring buildings equipped with kitchens and laundry facilities. Moreover, living on campus fosters a sense of community and connection, providing opportunities for diverse interactions and the development of lifelong friendships. The close-knit community encourages students to explore Seattle and the Pacific Northwest together, broadening their horizons beyond academics.

Students must live on campus for the first two years

Seattle University has a total undergraduate enrollment of 4,171 as of Fall 2023, with 55% of students living in college-owned, -operated, or -affiliated housing. The university has a policy that requires undergraduate students to live in on-campus dorms for their first two years. This policy is based on research that shows that students who live in a campus residential community have a more productive and satisfying college experience. On-campus residents are more likely to take advantage of campus resources, be involved in campus activities, take more credits per quarter, achieve greater academic success, and graduate at a higher rate.

There are, however, certain exemptions to this on-campus living requirement. Students who live with family within a commutable distance, which Seattle University defines as approximately 20 miles or less from campus, may be exempt. "Family" is defined as a parent, aunt, uncle, grandparent, spouse, or children, and students must live with the family member in their primary place of residence. Students over 21 years of age or those in their third or fourth year are also exempt from the on-campus living requirement. Other exemptions include medical conditions that the university cannot accommodate, participation in an academic internship or study abroad program, pregnancy or fathering a child, and military relocation.

Students seeking an exemption must submit a request through the Housing Exemption process by specified deadlines. The Housing Agreement is a binding legal document, and students who move out mid-year after the move-in date will be subject to financial penalties.

There are several housing options for students with disabilities

Seattle University has a total undergraduate enrollment of 4,171 (as of Fall 2023), with 55% of students living in college-owned, -operated, or -affiliated housing. The university offers several housing options for students with disabilities.

Students with disabilities at Seattle University can request housing accommodations that meet their individual needs. These accommodations are modifications to the residential environment to ensure that students with disabilities can fully participate in residential and housing life. The specific accommodations provided depend on the nature of the disability and its impact on the student's campus living experience.

To request disability-based housing accommodations, students must meet with Disability Services staff and provide documentation supporting their request and disability-related needs. Accommodations are approved on a case-by-case basis, and Disability Services works in partnership with Housing and Residence Life to fulfil individual requirements. Students should contact Disability Services as early as possible, as arranging accommodations may take time.

New students applying for housing accommodations should indicate their intention on the application form and meet with Disability Services staff to provide the necessary documentation. Current students receiving accommodations must notify Housing and Residence Life staff during the room selection process if they wish to continue their accommodations for the next year. For any changes or additional requests, students should refer to the Documentation Guidelines and then meet with a Disabilities Services staff member. All requests and documentation must be submitted by March 1st for the room selection process.

Seattle University is committed to providing safe, affordable, welcoming, and inclusive housing for its students. The university operates on a full academic year contract basis to offer on-campus living at the most reasonable rate possible. Students living on campus are more likely to take advantage of campus resources, be involved in the campus community, and achieve greater academic success and overall satisfaction with their university experience.

Campion Hall is the largest dormitory on campus

Campion Hall is the largest dormitory on the Seattle University campus, accommodating around 650 residents. This 12-story building is located on the south side of the campus, offering stunning views of Seattle, Elliott Bay, and the Olympic or Cascade mountain ranges. Each floor is thoughtfully designed with a lounge and a kitchenette, providing a comfortable and convenient living space for its residents.

The hall presents a diverse range of amenities and services to cater to the needs of its residents. It boasts an educational centre equipped with a computer lab, study rooms, and presentation space, fostering a conducive environment for academic pursuits. Additionally, a spacious lobby with a fireplace invites residents to relax and socialise. The basement features a music room, a game room, and "The Cave," a convenience store that caters to the daily needs of the residents.

Campion Hall also prioritises the spiritual well-being of its residents. It offers an ecumenical chapel and a multi-faith prayer room, ensuring that people from different religious backgrounds can find a space for reflection and worship. The presence of Jesuits in Residence and a Residential Minister further underscores the hall's commitment to pastoral care and spiritual guidance.

The residence hall is conveniently situated near various campus facilities. It is located across the street from the Lemieux Library, providing easy access to academic resources. Additionally, its proximity to the Archbishop Murphy Apartments and the Japanese Garden enhances the overall experience for residents, making Campion Hall a vibrant and engaging place to call home during their time at Seattle University.

Bellarmine Hall is the most centrally located dorm

Seattle University has a total undergraduate enrollment of 4,171 students, with 55% living in college-owned housing and 46% living off-campus. The university has four modern residence halls for first- and second-year students, who are required to live on campus or commute from home within a 20-mile radius.

The residence hall also fosters a supportive community. Each floor has a Jesuit in Residence, a member of the Jesuit community who is available for advising, conflict resolution, and counselling. Additionally, the Residential Minister lives within the residence hall community and collaborates with other staff members to provide pastoral care for students and staff.

Bellarmine Hall's central location and comprehensive amenities contribute to a convenient and enriching on-campus living experience for its diverse student population.

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