Central Washington University - Sammamish Campus: A Comprehensive Overview
Central Washington University (CWU) operates a network of campuses and instructional sites extending beyond its main residential campus in Ellensburg. Among these is the CWU-Sammamish campus, which has played a vital role in providing upper-division and graduate-level education to students in the region. This article delves into various aspects of the CWU-Sammamish campus, including its academic offerings, operational changes, and future prospects.
Academic Programs and Opportunities
CWU-Sammamish, like other CWU University Centers, is designed to cater to students who have already earned their Direct Transfer Agreement (DTA) associate degree or have fulfilled the majority of their general education requirements. The campus provides access to upper-division (300- and 400-level) and graduate-level coursework, enabling students to pursue baccalaureate and master’s degrees.
To accommodate the schedules of students with diverse commitments, CWU-Sammamish offers both day and evening classes. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for individuals who are balancing their education with work or other responsibilities. Continuing students can register for courses through various channels, including MyCWU, phone, or in person during their assigned enrollment appointment, following the same procedures as outlined in the university catalog.
Prospective students can receive guidance on general transfer matters and specific program details by contacting the university center and scheduling an appointment. This personalized advising ensures that students make informed decisions about their academic pathways.
Financial Aid and Resources
Students attending CWU-Sammamish are eligible to apply for financial aid to support their education. The application process can be initiated online through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) website. Additional information about financial aid opportunities and eligibility criteria can be found on the CWU Financial Aid website.
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CWU-Sammamish students also have access to comprehensive library services through the CWU Brooks Library. By logging on to the library's website, students can access a wide range of resources, including online databases, e-books, and research materials. Textbooks and other course materials can be purchased through the Wildcat Shop, either online or in person.
It is important to note that the final exam schedule at CWU-Sammamish may differ from that of the Ellensburg campus. Instructors at the University Center establish their own finals calendar, so students should consult with their instructors or the University Center office for specific information. The University Center office also provides information regarding office hours, which may vary for each center.
Recent Developments and Transition of Ownership
The City of Sammamish owns the facility located at 120 228th Ave NE, which was previously leased to Central Washington University (CWU) for higher education programming. Starting July 1, 2025, the City resumed full control of the building.
Closure Impact and Reasons
CWU will end its lease at the City-owned facility on July 1, leaving the City to assume full responsibility for the building. According to Kirstein, state-allotted resources have not kept up with rising expenses. There has also been a gradual decline in CWU’s overall enrollment since 2019. The closure has impacted Running Start, a dual enrollment program where high school students take college courses at local community colleges. “I was very surprised that such a big, nice-looking building is closing down right after spring quarter, but when I think about it, [it] does make sense. CWU-Sammamish has been the nearest Running Start college for high school students in Sammamish.
With CWU vacating the city-owned facility, the City of Sammamish will assume full responsibility for the building on July 1. Council directed staff to begin the process of converting the building for the short-term use of existing subtenants after options were presented about the Central Washington University building, which the school will vacate soon.
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Short-Term and Long-Term Plans for the Facility
In the short term, the City plans to continue several existing subleases to minimize disruption for current users. The City is preparing for a comprehensive planning process to determine the best long-term use of the facility. This will involve community engagement, operational planning, and an evaluation of capital needs.
Though the building is in generally good condition, a 2022 assessment identified $5 million in baseline maintenance needs over the next 15 years, excluding inflation and any costs related to programming upgrades or the transition to City operations. Currently, the staffing and funding needed to operate and maintain the building exceed the City’s available resources. Staff will spend the next few months converting the building to short-term use and will return to Council later this year with a potential addition to the 2026 workplan that would include options and costs for developing a long-term use plan for the building. The community has expressed various potential uses and desires for the building, and this long-term planning process will ensure that Sammamish residents have the opportunity to shape any potential future programming in the building.
The Role of University Centers
CWU's University Centers, including the Sammamish campus, are designed to extend educational opportunities to students who may not be able to attend the main campus in Ellensburg. These centers offer upper-division and graduate-level coursework, making it possible for students to complete their bachelor's and master's degrees without relocating.
One of the key advantages of the University Centers is their focus on serving students who have already completed their Direct Transfer Agreement (DTA) associate degree or most of their general education requirements. This allows students to seamlessly transition into upper-level coursework and complete their degrees in a timely manner.
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