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Western Carolina University
Explore one of the most distinguished institutions in NC. Your pathway to a brighter future begins here.
Annual Tuition
$4,532
Average Sticker Price
Admission Rate
86.7%
Selectivity Level
Graduation Rate
59.8%
Completion Success
Median Earnings
$49,458
10y Career Outlook
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About Institution
Western Carolina University is a distinguished Public, 4-Year institution located in Cullowhee, NC. With a competitive tuition profile of $4,532, it remains an attractive choice for ambitious students. A strong graduation rate of 59.8% underscores its academic rigor and effective student support systems.
Admissions Intel
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Acceptance Rate
86.7%
Investment Return
Estimated College ROI Analysis
Total 4-Year Cost
$18,128
Based on sticker tuition
Estimated Payback
0.9 yrs
Time to recoup investment
Annual Earnings Boost
+$19,458
vs. $30k HS diploma baseline
10-Year Net Gain
+$176,452
Cumulative earnings advantage minus total college cost
20-Year Net Gain
+$371,032
Long-term projected return on your education investment
ROI estimates use the BLS national median of $30,000/yr for high school diploma holders as a baseline. Actual results vary based on major, career path, location, and individual circumstances. Median graduate debt at Western Carolina University is $21,868.
Student Community
Gender Balance
Ethnic Diversity
Security Audit
Incidents
0
Burglary
0
Theft
0
Assault
0
Robbery
0
Rape
0
Arson
0
Murder
0
Financial Outlook
Total Sticker Price
$4,532
Estimated cost before aid.
Net Price By Income
Debt & Financial Aid
Repayment measured in 2016–17; this federal measure was discontinued.
* Most students receive significant grants and scholarships, reducing the actual cost. Grant data from IPEDS Student Financial Aid survey.
Quick Overview
Faculty Ratio
N/A
Retention
75.5%
Success
59.8%
In-State Cost
$4,532
Age 25+ Students
20.5%
Carnegie Class
Doctoral/Professional
Working at 6yr
3,047 students
Local City Insights
We are currently gathering city-level crime and housing data for Cullowhee. Check back soon for "Campus vs. City" comparisons!