Central Washington University
Your future, unleashed.
📍 Ellensburg, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #305 in United States
Quick Facts about Central Washington University
- Founded: 1891
- Type: Public
- Students: 10,811
- International: 1%
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $21,151 – $37,390/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
- Intakes: September, December, March
About Central Washington University
Academics
CWU offers over 135 majors, 32 master's degree programs, and various minors and certificates. The university is structured into several colleges, including the College of the Arts and Humanities, College of Business, College of Education and Professional Studies, and College of the Sciences. Notable programs include Psychology, Elementary Education, Business Administration, and Construction Management, with a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning and interdisciplinary studies. CWU's teaching approach focuses on empowering students with tailored academic pathways and resources to achieve their goals.
International Students
Central Washington University is home to over 400 international students from more than 60 countries, fostering a diverse and welcoming environment. The Office of International Studies and Programs (ISSP) provides extensive support services, including assistance with visas, immigration, housing, and career services. While specific English-taught program details were not immediately available, CWU does require proof of English proficiency for admission, with a minimum IELTS score of 6.0. The university offers merit-based scholarships for international students, with awards up to $12,000 for undergraduates and graduates.
Campus & Location
The main campus is situated in Ellensburg, Washington, a historic and friendly town known for its small-town charm and access to outdoor activities. Ellensburg offers a vibrant community with local restaurants, galleries, and shops, all within walking distance of campus. Transportation options include a fare-free public transit service, Central Transit, within Ellensburg, and regional bus services like Flixbus and Greyhound connecting to cities like Seattle and Spokane. Nearby attractions include the Clymer Museum of Art, Kittitas County Historical Museum, and various outdoor opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and river rafting.
Career Outcomes
CWU's Career Services offers comprehensive support to students and alumni, including career counseling, resume and cover letter assistance, interview skill development, and job and internship searches. Graduates from CWU have diverse earning potentials, with those in Engineering-related programs, such as Construction Management, reporting higher average salaries. The university actively builds industry connections, particularly within its Career and Technical Education programs, to provide students with real-world experience and networking opportunities. Top hiring companies for CWU graduates include Amazon, Boeing, and Costco Wholesale.
Information for International Students at Central Washington University
Central Washington University in Ellensburg, United States welcomes international students, with 1% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 1% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Central Washington University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Central Washington University:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 71
- Duolingo minimum: 120
- GPA minimum: 2
- Application fee: $60
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: Rolling quarterly (Fall: July 31, Winter: Oct 31, Spring: March 1)
Programs at Central Washington University (17 programs)
Central Washington University offers 17 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (7)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) — 48 months · English
A professional undergraduate degree for students pursuing careers in visual arts, performing arts, or creative writing, focusing on intensive studio work and artistic development.
Field: Fine Arts - Bachelor of Science (BS) — 36 months · English · STEM
An undergraduate degree emphasizing scientific and mathematical principles, preparing students for technical careers or advanced scientific research. - Bachelor of Education (BEd) — 48 months · English
An undergraduate degree designed for students aspiring to become teachers, covering pedagogical theories, curriculum development, and practical teaching experience.
Field: Education - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) — 48 months · English
An undergraduate professional degree preparing students for a career as a registered nurse, focusing on patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention.
Field: Nursing - Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) — 48 months · English · STEM
An undergraduate degree focused on engineering principles and design, preparing students for careers in various engineering disciplines.
Field: Engineering - Bachelor of Arts (BA) — 36 months · English
A broad undergraduate degree focusing on humanities, social sciences, and arts, preparing students for diverse careers or further graduate studies. - Bachelor of Music (BM) — 48 months · English
An undergraduate degree for aspiring musicians, focusing on performance, composition, music education, or music theory, preparing students for professional music careers.
Field: Music
Master Programs (7)
- Master of Arts (MA) — 24 months · English
A graduate degree focusing on advanced study in humanities, social sciences, or arts, often involving research and critical analysis. - Master of Education (MEd) — 24 months · English
A graduate degree for educators seeking advanced knowledge in pedagogy, educational leadership, or specialized teaching areas.
Field: Education - Master of Public Health (MPH) — 24 months · English
A graduate degree focused on public health practice, policy, and research, preparing students to address community health challenges.
Field: Public Health - Master of Science (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
A graduate degree emphasizing advanced scientific and technical knowledge, often involving research and specialized coursework. - Master of Social Work (MSW) — 24 months · English
A graduate degree preparing students for advanced social work practice, focusing on clinical skills, community organizing, and social justice.
Field: Social Work - Master of Business Administration (MBA) — 24 months · English
A graduate degree focused on business management and leadership, preparing students for executive roles in various industries.
Field: Business Administration - Master of Fine Arts (MFA) — 36 months · English
A terminal graduate degree for artists, writers, and performers, focusing on advanced creative practice and professional development in the arts.
Field: Fine Arts
PhD Programs (3)
- Doctor of Education (EdD) — 60 months · English
A terminal professional doctorate for educational leaders, focusing on applying research to solve practical problems in educational settings.
Field: Education - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
A terminal research-focused graduate degree, requiring original research and a dissertation, preparing students for academic or advanced research careers. - Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) — 60 months · English
A terminal professional doctorate for advanced musicians, focusing on performance, composition, or conducting at the highest artistic and scholarly levels.
Field: Music
Scholarships & Tuition at Central Washington University
Annual tuition for international students: $21,151 – $37,390/year
✅ Central Washington University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Central Washington University
- National Ranking: #305 in United States
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at Central Washington University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Average class size: 10
Key Highlights
- Comprehensive program offerings
- Diverse international student community
- Ellensburg: Historic, outdoor-focused town
- Affordable, high-quality education
Accreditation
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (AACSB)
- National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP)
Notable Alumni
- Jon Kitna
- Billy North
- Craig T. Nelson
- Christine M. Day
- Miesha Tate
Frequently Asked Questions about Central Washington University
What is Central Washington University?
Central Washington University is a public university located in Ellensburg, United States, founded in 1891. It has approximately 10,811 students, with 1% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Central Washington University?
Tuition fees at Central Washington University for international students range from $21,151 – $37,390/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Central Washington University?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 71. Duolingo minimum: 120. GPA minimum: 2. Application fee: $60. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: Rolling quarterly (Fall: July 31, Winter: Oct 31, Spring: March 1).
What language are courses taught in at Central Washington University?
Courses at Central Washington University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does Central Washington University offer?
Central Washington University offers 17 programs: 7 Bachelor's, 7 Master's, and 3 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Central Washington University ranked?
#305 in United States.
Does Central Washington University offer scholarships?
Yes, Central Washington University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Central Washington University provide visa support?
Yes, Central Washington University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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