Central Washington University

Powering the next generation of innovators

Central Washington University (CWU) is where aspiring scientists and engineers get the hands-on experience they need to build their future. Nestled in Ellensburg, Washington, CWU is committed to providing a practical, career-focused education that gets students ready for the real world. The University is a great place to start your journey in science or technology, offering small class sizes, dedicated professors, and an environment that fosters discovery and professional growth.

Academics that build careers
CWU’s undergraduate science and engineering programs stand out for their experiential learning approach. Forget just sitting in lectures—here, you'll be putting theory into practice from day one. In the engineering programs, you'll work with cutting-edge equipment in specialized labs, including the only active university foundry in the Pacific Northwest and state-of-the-art CNC machines and CAD labs. Science students also benefit from research opportunities, collaborating with faculty on projects across biology, chemistry, physics, and more. This dedication to hands-on work ensures you graduate with the technical skills and confidence employers are looking for.

Student life and community
Life at Central Washington University is about more than just your major. The vibrant campus in Ellensburg offers a supportive community and plenty of ways to get involved. You can join over 125 student clubs and organizations, including several related to your field of study, like engineering and science clubs. The Student Union and Recreation Center (SURC) is the hub for campus life, offering everything from intramural sports to performance events. With an award-winning dining program and state-of-the-art housing, CWU provides a comfortable and engaging atmosphere for all students to learn and make lifelong connections.

Real-world facilities
CWU makes sure students have access to the same tools they’ll use on the job. The Engineering Technologies, Safety, and Construction (ETSC) department features unique facilities, such as the Fluke Lab, a large industrial space with a 5-ton bridge crane used for training and industry events. From the Metallurgy Lab for materials testing to the Robotics and Automation courses where you work with industrial robots and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), the facilities give you a clear advantage by mirroring a professional work environment.