Central Washington University (CWU) is a public university located in Ellensburg, Washington. It was founded in 1891 as the Washington State Normal School, and has since grown to become a comprehensive university offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs in over 135 fields of study. The university has over 12,000 students and is known for its strong programs in music, education, and business. CWU is a member of the NCAA Division II and competes in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference.