Central Washington University (CWU) is a public university located in Ellensburg, Washington. It was established in 1891 and is part of the Washington state higher education system. As a public institution, CWU receives funding from state appropriations and offers lower tuition rates for in-state students compared to private universities.
The university serves over 12,000 students and provides a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Public universities like CWU prioritize accessibility, affordability, and serving the educational needs of state residents while also welcoming out-of-state and international students.