About Central Washington University
Central Washington University has built its reputation training teachers and pilots while serving rural Washington communities. The university enrolls 8,081 students in the small town of Ellensburg, where 93% come from in-state. Actor Craig T. Nelson graduated from here, along with sports journalist Ryan Divish. CWU's teacher preparation programs feed educators into schools across the state, while its aviation program launches careers in commercial and military flying.
Students pay an average net price of $14,715 after financial aid, making this one of Washington's more affordable options. Graduates earn a median of $61,580 ten years after leaving school, well above the national average for regional universities. With median debt of just $19,500, most students can handle monthly loan payments of $207. The 94.9% employment rate shows employers value CWU degrees.
The quarter system keeps academics moving quickly, and nearly half the students stay on campus in university housing. Only 51% graduate in four years, reflecting the many students who work while studying or take breaks for internships. The Wildcats compete in NCAA Division II with 11 varsity sports, creating a close-knit athletic community where 426 student-athletes receive $2.7 million in scholarships.
Students pay an average net price of $14,715 after financial aid, making this one of Washington's more affordable options. Graduates earn a median of $61,580 ten years after leaving school, well above the national average for regional universities. With median debt of just $19,500, most students can handle monthly loan payments of $207. The 94.9% employment rate shows employers value CWU degrees.
The quarter system keeps academics moving quickly, and nearly half the students stay on campus in university housing. Only 51% graduate in four years, reflecting the many students who work while studying or take breaks for internships. The Wildcats compete in NCAA Division II with 11 varsity sports, creating a close-knit athletic community where 426 student-athletes receive $2.7 million in scholarships.
Academics & Faculty
Central Washington University operates as a full regional university with deep roots in teacher preparation and aviation training. The school maintains a 17:1 student-faculty ratio, providing reasonable access to professors in a mid-sized setting. However, only 50% of students graduate within four years, and the 69% retention rate suggests many students struggle to stay engaged or find their academic fit. CWU's education programs have historically supplied teachers throughout Washington's rural districts. The university's aviation program stands out as a regional draw, training pilots and aviation professionals. Business and health sciences round out the popular majors, though academic support appears inconsistent given the modest graduation rates.
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 17:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 66.3%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 51.0%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 49.9%
- Retention Rate
- 69.0%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $61,580
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Large)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $72,482 |
| Construction Management. | Bachelor | $71,168 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Bachelor | $70,456 |
| Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $65,486 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $61,020 |
| Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $56,979 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $55,151 |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $52,941 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Master | $50,606 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Master | $47,260 |
Campus Life
Central Washington sits in the Yakima River Valley, about 110 miles southeast of Seattle through mountain passes that require winter driving skills. With housing capacity for 4,249 students and total enrollment of 8,081, roughly half the campus lives in residence halls or nearby apartments. The quarter system keeps academic pace quick, while Ellensburg's high desert climate means hot, dry summers and snowy winters where you'll definitely need that winter coat.
The 92.69% in-state student body creates a tight-knit community where outdoor recreation dominates weekend plans. Students head to nearby hiking trails, ski slopes, or the Yakima River for rafting. The 426 varsity athletes across 11 Division II sports generate solid school spirit, especially for football games at Tomlinson Stadium. Greek life and campus organizations fill the social calendar in a town where the university is the main attraction. With a 68.97% retention rate, some students struggle with the rural isolation, but those who stay often appreciate the small-town feel and strong connections to faculty in their 17:1 ratio classrooms.
The 92.69% in-state student body creates a tight-knit community where outdoor recreation dominates weekend plans. Students head to nearby hiking trails, ski slopes, or the Yakima River for rafting. The 426 varsity athletes across 11 Division II sports generate solid school spirit, especially for football games at Tomlinson Stadium. Greek life and campus organizations fill the social calendar in a town where the university is the main attraction. With a 68.97% retention rate, some students struggle with the rural isolation, but those who stay often appreciate the small-town feel and strong connections to faculty in their 17:1 ratio classrooms.
- Setting
- Town-Distant
- Housing Capacity
- 4,249 beds
- Calendar System
- Quarter
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1891
Campus Safety (2023)
58 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary | 13 | 6 | 0 | 0 |
| Domestic Violence | 5 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Stalking | 7 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Rape | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 4 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Fondling | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 24°–36°F
- July Avg
- 56°–86°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 26.9"
- Annual Snowfall
- -756.6"
Student Demographics
Central Washington draws primarily local students, with 93% coming from within Washington state. The student body reflects the university's mission as a regional full institution serving rural and small-town communities across the state. About one-third of students receive Pell Grants, indicating CWU provides accessible higher education to working-class families. Women slightly outnumber men at 53%, which aligns with the university's strong teacher preparation programs that traditionally attract more female students. The campus brings together students from Washington's diverse communities, creating a blend of urban and rural perspectives in the heart of the Cascade foothills.
- Men
- 47.0%
- Women
- 53.0%
- White
- 55.7%
- Black
- 5.0%
- Hispanic
- 21.8%
- Asian
- 4.1%
- In-State Students
- 92.7%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 31.1%
Location
Central Washington University sits in Ellensburg, a town of about 20,000 people located 110 miles southeast of Seattle. The university enrolls 8,081 students in this agricultural valley surrounded by the Cascade Mountains. Ellensburg transforms into a classic college town during the academic year, with students making up nearly half the population when classes are in session. The area offers outdoor recreation opportunities year-round, from hiking and skiing in the nearby mountains to exploring the high desert landscape of central Washington. With 92.69% of students coming from in-state, many are familiar with the rural character of this region. Students considering colleges in Washington may also compare Central Washington University with similar schools in the region.
- Address
- Ellensburg, Washington 98926
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $61,580
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $61,744
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $38,900
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 62.4%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $207/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $19,500
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Central Washington University?
Central Washington University accepts 93.49% of applicants, making it highly accessible to students across the academic spectrum. This open-door approach reflects the university's mission as a regional comprehensive institution serving Washington's diverse communities.
How much does Central Washington University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $14,715 annually after financial aid, with 31.14% receiving Pell Grants for low-income families. The university keeps costs manageable for Washington residents, with 92.69% of students coming from in-state.
What is Central Washington University known for academically?
Central Washington University maintains a 17:1 student-faculty ratio while specializing in teacher preparation and aviation programs. The university has built strong connections to Washington's rural communities since its founding in 1891.
What are the graduation rates at Central Washington University?
The university graduates 49.90% of students within six years, with a 68.97% first-year retention rate. Graduates earn a median salary of $61,580 ten years after enrollment, reflecting solid career outcomes for a regional university.
Where is Central Washington University located?
Central Washington University sits in Ellensburg, a town-distant setting that houses 8,081 students. The campus can accommodate 4,249 students in residence halls, creating a close-knit community atmosphere away from major metropolitan areas.
Does Central Washington University have strong athletics?
Central Washington University competes in NCAA Division II with 11 varsity sports and 426 total athletes. The Wildcats participate in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference, offering $2,706,805 in athletic scholarships to support student-athletes.
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