Central Washington University is one of six accredited, state-supported institutions of higher education. Serving approximately 8100 students (on the Ellensburg campus), CWU offers baccalaureate and graduate degrees in more than 90 academic programs. The administration, faculty, and staff place a strong emphasis on a liberal arts based general education. Instruction is organized into degree and certificate programs that provide theoretical and practical education in the arts, sciences, professional and technical fields, education, business, applied sciences, and engineering technologies.

Unlike most state universities, class size is relatively small at CWU. With most classes enrolling less than 100 students, instruction focuses on the provision of educational material in a more personal, interactive environment. Of the approximately 8100 students matriculated at CWU, about 3000 live in university housing. The university does not endorse fraternities or sororities.

The student body is relatively diverse, with students representing a variety of social, economic, and ethnic backgrounds. CWU has an ethnic student population of approximately 6.57% Asian and Pacific Islanders, 2.1% American Indian/Native Alaskan, 2.6% African American, 7.17% Hispanic for a total of 18.29% students of color. 5.5% of the students at CWU identify as having a disability. In addition, the university supports a strong International Studies Program.

The main University campus is located in the city of Ellensburg. Situated in the heart of Washington State, Ellensburg is only a two-hour drive from Seattle. With a population of roughly 16,000 residents, Ellensburg and the surrounding area boasts one of the richest agricultural regions in the State of Washington. Nested in the stunningly beautiful Kittitas Valley, Ellensburg is also the hub of one of the Northwest's prime recreational areas providing plentiful opportunities for skiing, hiking, backpacking, fishing and riding. One of the personal benefits of completing your internship at CWU is the opportunity to take advantage of this incredible area of the country.