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Colleges / WA / Ellensburg
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Central Washington University

Public Ellensburg, WA · Town · Far West · 93% data reported · Agent Insights
52%
Graduation Rate
$61,580
Earnings (10yr)
$18,476
Net Price
91%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

Central Washington University has an enrollment of about 7,833 students, making it a great fit for those looking for a community feel while still accessing a range of academic programs. With a high acceptance rate of 91%, this school welcomes a diverse group of learners. Students here often pursue degrees in Business & Marketing, Education, Psychology, Computer Science & IT, and Social Sciences, which are all strong areas of focus that can lead to solid career paths.

After graduation, the financial outlook is promising. Graduates earn an average of $61,580 within ten years, which speaks to the value of the education received. Affordability is also a key consideration; the net price after aid is around $18,476, making it accessible for many. While the graduation rate stands at 52%, those who do complete their degrees are positioned well in the job market.

Looking at the practical aspects, students who thrive here often come from diverse backgrounds and are ready to engage with both their studies and the campus community. The median debt for graduates is $19,500, which is manageable for many. With 28% of students receiving Pell Grants, there's a support system in place for those who need it, making Central Washington University a solid choice for individuals looking to balance education with financial realities.

Rankings

How Central Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation52%Earnings 10yr$62KNet Price$18KRetention70%Median Debt$20KPell Grant Rate28%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$12K$0-30K$14K$30-48K$16K$48-75K$27K$110K+

The Mobility Equation

Mobility = Access x Success. How many low-income students get in, and how many reach the top 20%?

ACCESS% from bottom 20%547.5%SUCCESS% who reach top 20%2514.2%MOBILITY137.66%

Cost & Financial Aid

$9,417
In-State Tuition
$27,526
Out-of-State
$18,476
Avg Net Price
$19,500
Median Debt
28%
Pell Grant Rate
31%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$11,846
Family Income $0–$30K
$13,942
Family Income $30K–$48K
$16,022
Family Income $48K–$75K
$26,719
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$49,398
6 Years After Entry
$55,463
8 Years
$61,580
10 Years
0.32x
Debt-to-Earnings
70%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$49,398 6yr $55,463 8yr $61,580 10yr

Social Mobility

Data: Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card · 30M+ anonymized tax records

137.66%
Mobility Rate
Bottom 20% → Top 20%
2514.2%
Success Rate
If bottom 20% get in
547.5%
From Bottom 20%
Share of students
$97,100
Parent Median Income

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.62
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
-0.01
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
5.8%
Volunteering Rate
0.99
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 91%
Retention Rate 70%
Full-Time Faculty 65%
Faculty Salary (mo) $10,124
Diversity Index 0.63
First-Gen Students 40%

Top Programs

Business & Marketing 18%
Education 14%
Psychology 11%
Computer Science & IT 9%
Social Sciences 7%
Criminal Justice 6%
Visual & Performing Arts 5%
Biology & Biomedical 3%