Where is cwu

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Central Washington University (CWU) is located in Ellensburg, Washington, approximately 110 miles east of Seattle. Founded in 1891 as the Washington State Normal School, it became a university in 1977 and now serves over 10,000 students across its main campus and eight satellite centers throughout Washington state.

Key Facts

Founded in 1891 as Washington State Normal School
Became Central Washington University in 1977
Main campus in Ellensburg, Washington (110 miles east of Seattle)
Enrollment of approximately 10,000 students
Operates eight satellite centers across Washington state

Overview

Central Washington University (CWU) is a public university located in Ellensburg, Washington, approximately 110 miles east of Seattle. Founded in 1891 as the Washington State Normal School, it initially focused on teacher education before expanding into a comprehensive university. The institution evolved through several name changes, becoming Central Washington College of Education in 1937 and finally Central Washington University in 1977, reflecting its growth in academic programs and mission.

The university operates on a 380-acre main campus in Ellensburg, with additional satellite centers serving students across Washington state. CWU is part of Washington's public higher education system and is classified as a Master's University by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. The university's mascot is the Wildcat, and its colors are crimson and black, representing its spirited campus community and academic traditions.

How It Works

CWU functions as a comprehensive public university offering undergraduate and graduate programs through multiple delivery methods and locations.

Academic Structure: CWU is organized into four colleges: the College of Arts and Humanities, College of Business, College of Education and Professional Studies, and College of the Sciences. These colleges offer over 135 undergraduate majors and 30 graduate programs, with particular strengths in education, business, and STEM fields. The university maintains a student-faculty ratio of 20:1, allowing for personalized attention in many programs.
Campus Network: Beyond the main Ellensburg campus, CWU operates eight satellite centers across Washington state, including locations in Des Moines, Lynnwood, Moses Lake, Pierce County, Wenatchee, Yakima, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and online. These centers serve approximately 3,000 students annually, providing access to higher education for working professionals and regional communities.
Student Support: The university provides comprehensive student services including academic advising, career counseling, disability services, and tutoring through the Wildcat Success Center. CWU offers over 100 student clubs and organizations, NCAA Division II athletics with 13 varsity sports teams, and various housing options accommodating about 3,500 students on campus.
Research and Innovation: CWU emphasizes undergraduate research opportunities, with students participating in projects across disciplines. The university operates specialized facilities like the Science II building (completed in 2018 at a cost of $60 million) and the recently renovated Student Union and Recreation Center. Faculty engage in research with approximately $5 million in external funding annually.

Key Comparisons

Feature	Central Washington University	Western Washington University
Location	Ellensburg (eastern Washington)	Bellingham (northwestern Washington)
Founded	1891	1893
Enrollment (approx.)	10,000 students	16,000 students
Carnegie Classification	Master's University	Master's University
Notable Programs	Education, Business, Aviation	Environmental Science, Engineering
Annual Tuition (in-state)	$8,439	$8,703

Why It Matters

Regional Access: CWU serves as a crucial educational resource for central and eastern Washington, with its eight satellite centers providing access to higher education for communities that might otherwise lack such opportunities. Approximately 40% of CWU students are first-generation college students, and the university awards over $60 million in financial aid annually to support diverse student populations.
Economic Impact: The university contributes significantly to Washington's economy, with an estimated annual economic impact of $500 million. CWU employs over 1,200 faculty and staff members and prepares graduates for high-demand fields, particularly in education where it produces more K-12 teachers than any other Washington institution.
Educational Innovation: CWU has pioneered several educational initiatives, including its University Centers model that partners with community colleges to offer bachelor's completion programs. The university's aviation program, established in 1975, is one of the oldest in the Pacific Northwest and trains pilots for commercial and military careers.

Looking forward, CWU continues to adapt to changing educational needs through initiatives like expanded online programs and partnerships with industry. The university's 2021-2026 strategic plan emphasizes increasing enrollment to 12,000 students, enhancing student success metrics, and strengthening community engagement. As higher education evolves, CWU's combination of traditional campus experience and innovative delivery methods positions it to serve Washington students effectively for decades to come, maintaining its role as an engine of opportunity and economic development for the region.