Central Washington University Overview

Central Washington University is a four-year, full-time, inclusive, higher transfer-in, higher education institution located in Ellensburg, WA. It has an enrollment of 9,508 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 88.45%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $17,234. Tuition is $8,685.00 without financial aid.

Central Washington University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Central Washington University, 68.58% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Central Washington University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to 1.

Central Washington University Website

Central Washington University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 88.45%.

SAT or ACT scores are neither required nor recommended

• The average SAT score was unreported for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was unreported for the incoming class to 2023.

Central Washington University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $17,234. The in-state tuition is $8,685.00. Out-of-state tuition is $25,213.00

The average tuition is:

• $11,804, when family income is less than $30,000

• $13,371, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $17,824, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $22,556, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $23,895, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 37.93% of students received a federal student loan and 32.73% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $25,213.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

Central Washington University Net Price Calculator

Central Washington University Majors/Salaries

Central Washington University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Central Washington University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Natural Resources Conservation and Research. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,685
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,637
• Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,363
• Computer and Information Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $46,589
• Computer and Information Sciences, General. (Master’s Degree) – $47,260
• Computer Science. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $52,941
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Master’s Degree) – $61,020
• Special Education and Teaching. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $47,064
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $43,720
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $43,080
• Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $72,482
• Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $65,486
• Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $56,979
• Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $46,087
• Apparel and Textiles. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,042
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,967
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,817
• Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,997
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,384
• Nutrition Sciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,274
• Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,363
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Master’s Degree) – $50,606
• Chemistry. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,208
• Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,565
• Physics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,565
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,671
• Criminal Justice and Corrections. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,239
• Human Services, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,305
• Social Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,580
• Anthropology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,649
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,369
• Geography and Cartography. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,560
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,009
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,308
• Air Transportation. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $47,260
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,262
• Film/Video and Photographic Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,960
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Music. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,658
• Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $70,456
• Public Health. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,401
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,714
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $47,036
• Accounting and Related Services. (Master’s Degree) – $55,151
• Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,170
• Construction Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $71,168

Central Washington University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Central Washington University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.70%
• Asian: 4.94%
• Black: 4.73%
• Hispanic: 18.43%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 1.01%
• Non-resident alien: 2.66%
• Two or more races: 9.21%
• Unknown: 5.56%
• White: 52.75%

At Central Washington University, 19.61% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Central Washington University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Central Washington University?

Central Washington University is known for its strong school spirit. The students and faculty are proud of their Wildcats sports teams, and you can often see students sporting the school’s colors of crimson and black. The school hosts a number of annual events, such as homecoming, to celebrate the university and bring the community together. Overall, school spirit at Central Washington University is high and is an integral part of the university’s culture.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Central Washington University?

At Central Washington University, some popular extracurricular activities include: 1. Club sports, such as soccer, volleyball, and rugby 2. Outdoor activities, such as hiking, rock climbing, and snowboarding 3. Music groups, such as bands, orchestras, and choirs 4. Theater productions and performance groups 5. Student government and leadership organizations 6. Service organizations focused on community service and social justice 7. Political and cultural clubs, such as Young Democrats and Asian Student Association 8. Academic clubs and organizations, such as the Psychology Club and the Math Club 9. Entrepreneurial groups and competitions 10. Greek life and other social organizations.

How are the food choices at Central Washington University?

Central Washington University offers a variety of food choices on campus, with multiple dining options available for students. The campus includes dining halls, cafes, and convenience stores, all of which offer a range of meal options. There are vegetarian and vegan options, as well as options for those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free, and halal meals. Overall, students at Central Washington University seem to be satisfied with the food choices on campus.

Is there Greek life at Central Washington University?

Yes, there is a Greek life at Central Washington University. The campus has 17 active fraternities and sororities that are members of the Interfraternity Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council, and Panhellenic Council. These organizations offer students opportunities to get involved in social, philanthropic, and leadership activities, while building friendships and connections that last a lifetime.

What is Central Washington University known for?

Central Washington University is known for its strong programs in the fields of aviation, music, geology, and education. Their aviation program is one of the most highly regarded in the Pacific Northwest, offering degree programs in aviation, aircraft maintenance, and professional pilot training. The university’s strong music program features a nationally recognized marching band and several performance ensembles. Additionally, their geology program offers a unique opportunity to study the geology of the Pacific Northwest, with opportunities for field study and research. The education program at Central Washington University is also highly regarded, with a focus on teacher preparation and professional development.

What are the most popular school clubs at Central Washington University?

Central Washington University (CWU) offers a wide range of clubs and organizations that cater to different interests, hobbies, and activities. Some of the most popular school clubs at CWU include: 1. CWU Climbing Club – This club caters to students who love climbing. They offer climbing trips, competitions, and lessons. 2. CWU Outdoor Pursuits and Rentals – This is for students who love outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, kayaking, and snowboarding. 3. Central Theatre Ensemble – This club is for students who are interested in theater productions, acting, and stage design. 4. Student Paramedic Association – This club is for students who are interested in emergency medical services and want to become paramedics. 5. CWU Dance Team – This club is for students who love dancing, and they perform at sports games and other events. 6. CWU Photography Club – This is for students who are passionate about photography and want to learn new techniques and skills. 7. Associated Students of Central Washington University – This club represents students’ interests in university policies and decisions. These are just some of the many clubs and organizations available at Central Washington University.

Is the campus at Central Washington University safe?

According to the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report published by Central Washington University, the campus crime rate is relatively low. The University has a dedicated team of Campus Safety officers who work around the clock to ensure the safety of students and staff. The University also utilizes a network of emergency notification systems, including text messages and email alerts, to keep the campus community informed of any potential dangers. As with any university, it is always recommended to take basic safety precautions such as walking with a friend at night and reporting any suspicious activity to campus security.