Program Overview

Introduction to Viking Launch

Viking Launch is a week-long program designed to help incoming first-year students at Western Washington University transition to college by providing academic and social integration before the fall quarter begins.

Program Overview

During Viking Launch, participants will engage in college success workshops and community-building and recreational activities that will make their transition to college a fun-filled experience. Additionally, they will take a 2-credit seminar course to kickstart their academic journey.

Seminar Courses

Participants can choose one of the following thematic seminar courses taught by Western faculty in a small cohort class setting:

• Creative Writing
• Digging into Bellingham
• Foundations of Behavioral Neuroscience
• Fundamentals of Business
• Introduction to Design and Photography
• Leading Responsibly
• Mount Baker Geology and Volcanic Hazards
• Spanish: Language and Culture

Program Details

When is Viking Launch?

The program runs from September 14 to September 19, 2025. Students living on campus will be able to move in early.

Why Participate in Viking Launch?

• Gain early access to campus and resources.
• Build academic skills in a focused seminar.
• Form connections with peers and faculty.
• Participate in group activities to ease the transition to college life.

Program Fee

Viking Launch is open to all incoming first-year students and requires a $1,200 program fee. Some seminar courses have an additional fee to cover special labs or field trips, which will be added to the fall quarter bill.

Testimonials

Past students have praised Viking Launch for its benefits, including:

• Helping them meet people early and feel more prepared for the academic year.
• Providing a useful introduction to the campus and city.
• Offering a sense of community and connection with peers and faculty.
• Allowing them to earn two credits in a week-long program.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation requests must be received in writing. Requests received by June 30 will be issued a refund, minus a $250 cancellation fee. Refunds will not be given for cancellation requests received after June 30, 2025. A full refund is only granted if the program is cancelled.