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Eastern Washington University

Cheney, WA

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

1882
Founded
Public university
Type
6,517
Total Students
$32M
Endowment
(2023)
$8K
Tuition (In-State)
$26K
Tuition (Out-State)
$13K
Avg Net Price
92%
Acceptance Rate
47%
Graduation Rate
6-year
67%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Shari McMahan

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Eastern Washington University

EWU is transforming into a polytechnic powerhouse, offering hands-on learning for future-ready careers.

Eastern Washington University, a vibrant public institution located in Cheney with a satellite campus in Spokane, has been a cornerstone of education since its founding in 1882. With a student body of over 10,900, EWU offers a dynamic learning environment for those seeking a practical, high-quality education in the Pacific Northwest. Under the leadership of President Shari McMahan, the university is currently undergoing an exciting evolution, emphasizing applied learning and career readiness.

Academically, EWU is organized into four distinct colleges: the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences; the College of Health Science & Public Health; the College of Professional Programs; and the College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics. This structure provides a wide range of programs designed to meet the demands of today's job market. The university is strategically rebranding as a polytechnic institution, a move that promises expanded internship opportunities and a curriculum explicitly tailored to in-demand fields, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for success.

EWU's history is one of remarkable resilience and continuous growth. From its origins as the Benjamin P. Cheney Academy, through its transformation into a State Normal School for teachers, and overcoming devastating fires, the institution has always remained dedicated to its mission. Today, its historic core campus, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, stands as a testament to its enduring legacy, offering prospective students a unique blend of rich tradition and forward-thinking innovation in their educational journey.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1882, EWU boasts a long-standing tradition of public education in Washington state.
  • Serves over 10,900 students, fostering a close-knit and supportive academic community.
  • Pioneering a rebrand as a polytechnic university, prioritizing applied learning, internships, and in-demand career preparation.
  • Offers comprehensive programs through four main colleges: Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences; Health Science & Public Health; Professional Programs; and Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics.
  • Features a main campus in Cheney, Washington, and a shared satellite campus in Spokane (Riverpoint Campus).
  • The historic core of the Cheney campus is recognized on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

Timeline

1882
Established as the Benjamin P. Cheney Academy in Cheney, Washington.
1890
Renamed the State Normal School at Cheney, focusing on training elementary school teachers.
1891
Original building destroyed by fire; the school quickly rebuilt and resumed operations.
1912
Campus again destroyed by fire, leading to the construction of the iconic Showalter Hall.
1937
Renamed Eastern Washington College of Education, reflecting its expanded academic scope.
1961
Became Eastern Washington State College, adding various graduate and undergraduate degree programs.
1977
Achieved university status, officially becoming Eastern Washington University by state legislature.
1992
The historic core of the campus was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
2024
Announced a strategic rebranding to a polytechnic university, emphasizing applied and experiential learning.
🏛️
144 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

4 notable schools within Eastern Washington University

🎭

College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences

Offering a broad spectrum of programs in culture, society, and creative expression.

🏛️

College of Health Science & Public Health

Dedicated to training professionals in crucial health and public service fields.

🏫

College of Professional Programs

Focusing on practical, career-oriented education across various professional disciplines.

⚙️

College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

Providing robust education in STEM fields, preparing students for innovation and technical careers.

Leadership

Shari McMahan
President
Jonathan Anderson
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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