Academic Programs, Institutes, and Centers

University Programs and Courses to Amplify Your Degree!

Western Washington University’s university-wide Academic Programs, Institutes, and Centers (APICs) exist to leverage, support, and develop connections across traditional academic boundaries. By working together to promote inclusion across disciplines, we benefit WWU students, as well as on- and off-campus communities. APICs aim to inspire, build synergies for success, and strengthen each other through a collaborative and convivial culture. We achieve our goals through co-creative and dynamic strategies, outreach, programming, and partnership.

Border Policy Research Institute

A large white archway sits on a lawn surrounded by trees, with US and Canadian flags flying on the top of the arch.

Western established The Border Policy Research Institute (BPRI) in 2005 to further a mission of promoting research, academic programs, and public programming on critical policy issues affecting the Cascadia region. BPRI is a multi-disciplinary institute that undertakes research to inform policy-makers on matters related to the Canada-U.S. border, particularly in the British Columbia-Washington State region. Priority focus areas include trade, transportation, economic relationships, human mobility, and border security. BPRI works closely with cognate programs at Western and collaborates with many public and private entities within the region.

Center for Canadian-American Studies

Two flagpoles, one with a Canadian flag and one with an American flag.

The Center for Canadian-American Studies at Western Washington University supports critical and interdisciplinary inquiry into the historical construction and modern constitution of Canada and its relationship with the United States. The Center places particular emphasis on the interaction of diverse identities and claims to belonging in northern North America.

Institute for Critical Disability Studies

Adaptive keyboard next to a laptop

The WWU Institute for Critical Disability Studies (ICDS) represents a group of students, faculty, and staff committed to engaging with disability through an interdisciplinary, intersectional, and collaborative approach. 

Institute for Energy Studies

Two students working with science equipment measuring a system.

The Institute for Energy Studies (IES) at Western Washington University (WWU) is a multi-college collaboration that offers interdisciplinary undergraduate degrees to address the science, technology, policy, business and economic aspects of energy systems. 

Marine and Coastal Science Program

Young students observing samples in a dark room

Marine and Coastal Science (MACS) is an interdisciplinary program at Western Washington University with core and affiliated faculty in units across the university, drawing together the wealth of expertise in multiple departments and at Shannon Point Marine Center.

Morse Leadership Institute

Silhouettes of people posing on a rocky landscape, with the sun setting in the background.

The Morse Leadership Institute’s mission is to develop student leaders who can work collaboratively and inclusively with others by honoring diverse leadership values, styles, and perspectives, which can result in more equitable solutions and communities.

Ray Wolpow Institute

Various items, including a book, shoe and Star of David, sit on a table.

For the Study of the Holocaust, Genocide, and Crimes Against Humanity

In line with the university’s focus on academic excellence and inclusive achievement, we are committed to making a positive impact in the state and the world by engaging our students in cross- and interdisciplinary undergraduate programs and extra-curricular development opportunities. Our mission is to advance knowledge about the Holocaust and genocide, including ethnic and religious conflict as well as attendant human rights abuses.

Salish Sea Institute

The sun sets over mountains, viewed from a beach made up of driftwood and large rocks.

Western Washington University is situated on the ancestral homelands of the Lummi Nation and Nooksack Tribe. Coast Salish Peoples have lived in the Salish Sea basin from time immemorial.

Given our placement on the edge of the Salish Sea, in Coast Salish territories, and near the international border, Western Washington University created the Salish Sea Institute to raise awareness and protection for the Salish Sea.

At the Salish Sea Institute, we work to share knowledge across disciplines and borders.

Sustainability Engagement Institute

Aerial view of North campus from Red Square looking South. The sky is crystal blue and both sides of campus are lined by towering green trees.

Western's Sustainability Engagement Institute (SEI) develops educational opportunities and systems change for a more sustainable, just future. The Institute advances initiatives that create economic vitality, promote well-being, protect the environment, and uphold social justice. This work is carried out in the classroom, across campus divisions and departments, and in the broader community.