Western Carolina University
Acceptance
82%
Avg SAT
1157
In-State
$4,630
Grad Rate (4yr)
44%
Retention
79%
Earnings
$49,458
AI Overview
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Western Carolina University turns its stunning Appalachian setting into a living laboratory, with standout programs in natural resources conservation and environmental management. The campus attracts outdoor enthusiasts and environmentally conscious students who want hands-on learning beyond the classroom. With an 87% acceptance rate, WCU welcomes motivated students ready to explore both mountain trails and career paths. The university's location in tiny Cullowhee means you're genuinely part of a tight-knit mountain community, not just passing through.
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
In-State Tuition
$4,630
Out-of-State Tuition
$8,630
Room & Board
$12,354
Average Net Price
$13,315
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual cost after grants & scholarships
Receive Pell Grants
35%
Take Federal Loans
44%
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,868
6-Year Graduation Rate
1st Year Retention Rate
Median Earnings
10 years after enrollment
$49,458Median Debt
At graduation for completers
$21,868Top Programs by Earnings
Bachelor's degree graduatesConstruction Engineering Technologies
37 graduates
$76,573
4 yrs after graduation
Engineering Technology, General
63 graduates
$67,301
4 yrs after graduation
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
167 graduates
$65,830
4 yrs after graduation
Management Information Systems and Services
42 graduates
$60,008
4 yrs after graduation
Public Administration
76 graduates
$58,649
4 yrs after graduation
Security Science and Technology
$53,912
4 yrs after graduation
Accounting and Related Services
54 graduates
$51,846
4 yrs after graduation
Finance and Financial Management Services
51 graduates
$51,753
4 yrs after graduation
Marketing
119 graduates
$51,579
4 yrs after graduation
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
103 graduates
$47,130
4 yrs after graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard
Available Programs
72+ programsAnd 60 more programs available
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