Overview
Central Washington University is located in Ellensburg, WA. This comprehensive ROI analysis uses federal IRS W-2 earnings data to help you understand what graduates from Central Washington University actually earn.
Data last updated: February 11, 2026
| Key Metric | Value | |------------|-------| | Median Graduate Earnings | $61,580 | | In-State Tuition | $9,192 | | Out-of-State Tuition | $26,771 | | Acceptance Rate | 90.2% | | Graduation Rate | 49.9% | | Student Population | 8,081 |
Graduate Earnings
According to federal data from IRS W-2 records, the median annual earnings for Central Washington University graduates is $61,580 measured 10 years after initial enrollment.
This earnings figure represents graduates who received federal financial aid and had W-2 earnings reported to the IRS.
How This Compares
Compare Central Washington University's graduate earnings to:
- [Similar schools in WA](/schools/wa)
- [Schools with similar admission rates](/compare)
- [National averages by major](/majors)
Cost Breakdown
Understanding the true cost of attending Central Washington University:
| Cost Component | In-State | Out-of-State | |----------------|----------|--------------| | Tuition & Fees | $9,192 | $26,771 | | Room & Board | $16,314 | $16,314 | | 4-Year Total (Est.) | $102,024 | $172,340 |
Note: Actual costs may vary. Financial aid can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
ROI Analysis
To calculate your personal ROI:
- Estimate your total cost after financial aid
- Compare to median earnings of $61,580
- Consider your specific major (earnings vary significantly)
- Factor in opportunity costs of 4 years of study
Top Majors at Central Washington University
The highest-earning majors at Central Washington University typically include:
- Engineering and Computer Science programs
- Business and Finance degrees
- Healthcare and Nursing programs
Similar Schools to Consider
Based on size, selectivity, and location, you might also consider:
- Schools in WA with similar outcomes
- Institutions with comparable admission rates
- Universities with strong programs in your intended major
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Central Washington University worth the tuition?
With median graduate earnings of $61,580 and an out-of-state 4-year cost of approximately $172,340, the payback period depends on your financial aid package and chosen major.
What percentage of Central Washington University students graduate?
The graduation rate at Central Washington University is 49.9%, which is below the national average.
How competitive is admission to Central Washington University?
Central Washington University has an acceptance rate of 90.2%.
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This page uses data from the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard API. Earnings data reflects median annual earnings for students who received federal financial aid, measured 10 years after enrollment.