At the UW, learning goes beyond classrooms and lecture halls. From outdoor classrooms (like Union Bay Natural Area, above) to a 15th century palazzo in Rome, students of any discipline can find opportunities for learning, research and community.
Story by Anikka B. Stanley // Photos by University Photography
The UW Rome Center resides in a 15th century palazzo, rich in historical significance as it is built upon the ruins of the Roman Theatre of Pompey and Temple of Venus. Over 400 UW students study in Rome every year, all from a variety of disciplines.
Owned by the School of Oceanography and operated by the Academic Research Fleet, Research Vessel Rachel Carson helps UW scientists conduct oceanographic and fisheries research (like temperature and depth sampling, plankton net tows, and more) in the coastal waters of the western U.S. and Canada.
At the UW Farm, students gain hands-on agricultural experience in the field and greenhouses, helping produce over 10 tons of organic produce annually for campus dining, the UW Food Pantry and the neighboring community. The UW Farm also runs educational programs, indigenous growing initiatives and partnerships with urban farm networks, deepening students’ understanding of food systems and sustainability.
Accessible only by ferry, Friday Harbor Laboratories is located within the unique environment of the San Juan Islands. Students and faculty come to the island to study marine biology and train a new generation of marine scientists.
Named after a renowned 20th century artist and former UW faculty member, the Jacob Lawrence Gallery is a vibrant hub for education, social justice and artistic experimentation in the UW community. The gallery features exhibitions, lectures, performances and more — all produced by the School of Art + Art History + Design.
For nearly a century, Pack Forest has served as a forested classroom supporting education, research and outreach for students and faculty of the School of Environmental and Forest Sciences. With its 4,300 acres of diverse forest landscape, this outdoor classroom is used for field-based research.
The Manastash Ridge Observatory (MRO), located 100 miles east of Seattle in Ellensburg, is home to a 30-inch telescope used primarily by UW undergraduates for astronomical research. Beyond research, the Astronomy Undergraduate Engineering Group works to maintain and repair the telescope, helping ensure the MRO will continue operating for years to come.
The Floyd and Delores Jones Playhouse located off West Campus, was originally a storehouse that was remodeled into a theater in 1930. The School of Drama puts on regular productions where students can work with faculty to learn acting and technical theater skills.
Union Bay Natural Area is a public wildlife area, laboratory and popular bird-watching site next to Lake Washington. More than 200 species of birds have been sighted at the preserves.
