We will add to this page as we get questions from you.

What is the application deadline?

Due to technical issues April 15, 2022 is now the priority deadline and after that we’ll accept applications until all the positions have been finalized. 

Am I eligible for this program even if I don't live in the Pacific Northwest?

Yes, although applicants who go to school or live in the Pacific Northwest are our primary target. We encourage applications from students enrolled at two- and four-year colleges in Washington, Oregon, Montana, and Idaho, but students outside the region are eligible to apply. In order to be eligible, you must be a currently enrolled undergraduate and you must be a US citizen, US national, or permanent resident of the United States.

I am in my final year of college and will graduate at the end of this school year. Should I consider applying?

No. Seniors graduating in the spring are not eligible for the program. We encourage students in their first or second year of college to apply to our REU program. Students in their third year are eligible as well, as long as their expected graduation date is later than the spring of 2022.

Can I have a job or take classes at the same time as the REU program?

No, but that shouldn't stop you from applying. The program provides a stipend of $5100, plus substance support for eight and a half weeks. During that time, your research will be a full-time job. If you have concerns about taking time off from your job, please get in touch. 

How many hours do students spend doing research every day?

It’s difficult to give an estimate of actual hours daily, because everyone’s project will be unique, depending on what their project is, what data have been collected thus far, and how much experience and/or training a given student has had or needs to obtain. The intention, however, is that this will be a full time (~40 hrs/week) experience.

What is Ellensburg like?

Ellensburg is a small, family-friendly college town located in the central part of Washington State, on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains. The town's population is just over 18,000. The climate is semi-arid, and on a typical summer day it is sunny, hot, and dry, with little rain. Ellensburg has an historic downtown featuring a variety of small shops and restaurants, and many tourists visit on weekends. The Kittitas County Farmers Market takes place downtown every Saturday throughout the summer. Ellensburg is located in wine and hop country; there are several wineries and a growing number of microbreweries in and near town. Seattle is about 2 hours to the northwest. There are many opportunities for hiking, biking, boating, and camping; Mt Rainier National Park, Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, and the Columbia River are popular destinations within easy driving distance.

Contact Us

Don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions. 

For questions about the nature of the program, eligibility, and research projects, contact:

Dr. Brandy Wiegers.

• REU Program Director
• Email: Brandy.wiegers@cwu.edu
• Phone: 509-963-2125

For questions about travel, housing, and reimbursement, contact:

Dannica Price

• REU Program Coordinator
• Email: reu@cwu.edu
• Phone: (509) 963-2135