Columbia Southern University vs Central Washington University
Orange Beach, AL — Ellensburg, WA
| Metric | Columbia Southern University Orange Beach, AL | Central Washington University Ellensburg, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Orange Beach, AL | Ellensburg, WA |
| Type | Private For-Profit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 12,176 | 7,833 |
| Acceptance Rate | — | 90.6% |
| SAT Average | — | — |
| In-State Tuition | $6,760 | $9,417 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $6,760 | $27,526 |
| Avg Net Price | $14,580 | $18,476 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,339 | $19,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 35.3% | 51.6% |
| Retention Rate | 71.0% | 70.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $55,140 | $49,398 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $63,534 | $61,580 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 487700.0% | 527100.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL
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Central Washington University
Ellensburg, WA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Columbia Southern University and Central Washington University compare?▼
Columbia Southern University (Orange Beach, AL) has no published acceptance rate, in-state tuition of $6,760, and median 10-year earnings of $63,534. Central Washington University (Ellensburg, WA) has an acceptance rate of 90.6%, in-state tuition of $9,417, and median 10-year earnings of $61,580.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Columbia Southern University or Central Washington University?▼
Columbia Southern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $63,534 vs $61,580. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia Southern University or Central Washington University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Columbia Southern University is the more affordable option at $14,580 per year versus $18,476.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Central Washington University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 51.6% vs 35.3%.
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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.
Related
Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025