Small Town, Big Impact
At EWU, you’re surrounded by natural beauty and a supportive community as you gain the skills and hands-on experiences to start a career you’re passionate about.
Why Eastern Washington University?
Strong Community
Our tight-knit community and dedicated staff will make you feel right at home. Don’t just take our word for it: 88% of students who visit EWU choose to enroll.
Schedule a TourAffordable & Amazing
You don't have to sacrifice quality to get an education you can afford—EWU has the lowest in-state tuition and fees of any public university in Washington.
Our ValueExpert Faculty
Whether you study robotics, dental hygiene, psychology, music, or biology, you'll learn from leading researchers and industry pros with real-world experience.
Explore ProgramsDiversity & Belonging
As one of the most diverse campuses in the Pacific Northwest, EWU is a place where you can be yourself, feel supported, and connect with people from all walks of life.
Our CommitmentCareer Connections
Benefit from one-on-one guidance, mentorship and internship opportunities, and advisors who actually know you—plus access to the Eagle alumni network.
Career CenterVisionary University Leadership
Our university leaders are committed to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities so you can access the resources to achieve your goals.
Meet the TeamHands-On Learning For High-Demand Careers
Eastern Washington University is the region’s polytechnic. With an increased emphasis on real-world, career-focused learning, we're equipping the next generation of Eagles to take a highly competitive workforce by storm.
EWU Facts
General Facts
Founded: April 3, 1882
Campus: Cheney, Washington
Campus Acreage: 300
Academic Calendar: Quarters
Mascot: Swoop the Eagle
School Colors: Red and White
Student Facts
Enrollment: 10,491 (fall 2025)
Diversity: 32%
Average GPA: 3.32
First-Generation College Students 32%
Tuition: $2,431/quarter
Financial Aid Distributed: $116.5 million
Alumni Facts
Alumni population: 123,000+
Washington state: 87,000+
Spokane County: 44,000+
Alumni who have jobs related to their major: 75%
Campus Safety
Eastern Washington University is proud to be one of the safest public university campuses in Washington and among the top 100 safest campuses in the country.
Our friendly, professional campus police department works closely with local law enforcement and fire services to protect our community. Students can also rely on the EagleSafe app, which provides real-time location tracking, emergency alerts, and easy access to campus safety resources.
For added transparency, the Clery Report provides an overview of campus crime statistics from the past three years, as well as details on emergency procedures and how to report an incident.
From Community Dream to the Region’s Polytechnic
Eastern Washington University has a rich history rooted in regional impact and innovation. It all began in 1882 when the Benjamin P. Cheney Academy opened its doors to more than 200 students, thanks to a generous donation from its namesake, a wealthy transportation industrialist. Cheney residents had long desired higher education in their town, and this contribution helped turn that dream into reality.
By 1889—the same year Washington became a state—the academy evolved into the State Normal School at Cheney. Over the years, the institution continued to develop and transform. In 1937, it became Eastern Washington College of Education, a fully accredited four-year institution offering degrees in multiple fields. Following World War II, the campus expanded rapidly, adding new programs and facilities to adapt to a changing world.
By 1961, its name changed to Eastern Washington State College to reflect its broader academic mission. As demand for professionals across various industries increased, so did the range of undergraduate and graduate programs. In 1977, the Washington State Legislature officially renamed the institution Eastern Washington University.
The next transformation happened in 2024 when EWU became the Region’s Polytechnic—a shift that reinforced its commitment to providing a hands-on, career-ready education. This new identity builds on what the university has always done best: prepare students for real-world success, support workforce needs, and strengthen the communities it serves.
