What Is It Known For?
Central Wyoming College, founded in 1966, is a community college that’s part of the Wyoming Community College system. With its main campus in Riverton and outreach centers in Jackson, Dubois, and Lander, it serves Teton Counties, Fremont, and Hot Springs. The college welcomes about 1,755 students each year, offering a mix of certificate programs, associate’s degrees, and even some bachelor’s options.
Students enjoy a close-knit learning environment with a 14-to-1 student-faculty ratio. This smaller size allows for more personal attention and helps create a friendly, supportive atmosphere where students can thrive.
Degrees & Certifications
Central Wyoming College offers a wide range of educational paths to suit various interests and career goals. Students can choose from over 70 different fields of study, including:
- Bachelor of Applied Science
- Agriculture and Equine Studies
- Business and Entrepreneurship
- Career and Technical Programs
- Health Sciences
- And Much More!
Class Schedules
Central Wyoming College offers flexible class schedules, including morning, afternoon, and evening options. Some courses are available both online and on-site, though specific availability can vary. To get the details for your particular course, it’s best to contact the school directly.
While the website doesn’t mention externships or clinical experiences, reaching out to the school may provide the most current information.
Is It Legit?
Yes. Central Wyoming College is a legitimate institution. The school has had accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since March 1976.
Acceptance Rate
Central Wyoming has an acceptance rate of 100%.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition rates at Central Wyoming College vary based on residency. In-state students pay $4,680, WUE students pay $6,270, and out-of-state students pay $10,980. Keep in mind that these figures cover tuition only. The total cost of attendance includes additional expenses such as housing, meals, textbooks, and other essentials.
For a more accurate picture of your potential expenses, try using the college’s net price calculator or reach out to the financial aid office.
Programs & Courses
Arts
- Art
- Film
- Music
- Photography
- Theater
Business
- Accounting
- Administrative Assistant
- Business
- Entrepreneurship
Healthcare
- CNA
- EKG
- Health Sciences
- Medical Assistant
- Phlebotomy
- RN
Professional Services
- Cosmetology
- Culinary
- Hotel Restaurant Management
Skilled Trades
- Automotive Technology
- Electrical Apprenticeship
- Welding
Campus Locations
Dubois 302 W. Ramshorn P.O. Box 175 Dubois, WY 82513
Jackson 240 S. Glenwood St #124 P.O. Box 4795 Jackson, WY 83001
Lander 120 Enterprise Blvd. Lander, WY 82520
Riverton 2660 Peck Avenue Riverton, WY 82501
Reviews
Based on reviews from local Google reviews and other online sources, Central Wyoming College in Riverton, WY, has a very positive and well-regarded reputation. It is often praised as a high-quality and affordable institution, particularly by students seeking a strong foundation before transferring to a four-year university. The college is officially recognized as a top community college in Wyoming by Niche.
Overall Score: 4.5/5 Stars
Common Praises
Caring and Supportive Staff: Reviewers consistently praise the faculty and staff for being “amazing,” “very helpful,” and “caring.” Many students mention that professors and advisors go out of their way to provide personalized support and make sure students succeed.
Academic Excellence: The college is noted for its strong academic programs, with students achieving high mastery rates in their coursework. The nursing, agribusiness, and hunter education programs receive specific positive mentions. The college’s a cadaver lab and partnerships with NOLS also contribute to its reputation for unique, hands-on learning experiences.
Community and Atmosphere: CWC is described as a welcoming and safe environment with a strong sense of community. The campus is noted as being beautiful, and the college hosts a variety of events, including concerts, sports, and plays, which are well-received by students and community members.
Affordability and Value: Many students see CWC as a great value, offering a high-quality education at a low cost. The addition of bachelor’s degrees and unique programs adds to its appeal.
Common Criticisms
Subjective Grading: A very detailed, negative review from a former nursing student alleges that the grading system is subjective and based on favoritism. This reviewer claims that instructors have the power to fail students without justification and that the program is essentially “self-taught.”
Limited Social Opportunities: Some reviews mention that the small town and college can feel isolating, and some students wish there were more social events or a better “party scene.”
Administrative Hiccups: While most reviews praise the staff, a few mention “hiccups in registration” and being directed to departments that were “behind and short staffed.”
Momentum
The momentum for Central Wyoming College is consistently positive. The most recent reviews are highly favorable, praising the community, staff, and campus environment. The college is also experiencing record enrollment growth and has received recent national rankings from Niche, recognizing it as one of the top community colleges in the state and the country. The college’s official responses to reviews and its investment in new facilities and programs, such as the Rustler Ag and Equine Complex, demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and student success.