Known for health sciences — excellent value
Western Carolina University is a public institution in Cullowhee with particular strength in health sciences and business. With an average SAT of 1151, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A mid-sized campus of 9.9K undergraduates with a 16:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
59% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $49,458 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $12,579.
Established
1889
Type
Public university
Conference
Southern Conference
Division
Division I
87%Acceptance
1151SAT Avg
9,867Students
16:1Student:Faculty
59%Grad Rate
$49,458Earnings 10yr
$12,579Net Price
Admissions
Acceptance Rate86.7%
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1151
Reading & WritingMid: 580
540650
MathMid: 565
510610
ACT Score Range
CompositeMid: 22
2026
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Tuition (in-state)$4,532
Tuition (out-of-state)$8,532
Room & Board$11,764
Books & Supplies$693
Total Cost of Attendance$19,057
Average Net Price$12,579
Median Debt at Graduation$21,868
Monthly Payment (10yr)$232
Net Price by Family Income
$0–30K$8,571
$30–48K$10,277
$48–75K$13,085
$75–110K$15,140
$110K+$17,958
Programs (111)
Student Body
Undergrads
9,867
Gender Split
57% / 43%
Women / Men
First Generation
33%
Pell Grant Recipients
33%
Race & Ethnicity
White 76%
Black 7%
Hispanic 9%
Asian 1%
Two+ 4%
Int'l 2%
Outcomes
4-Year Graduation Rate59.1%
Freshman Retention75.5%
Median Earnings After Graduation
6 Years$43,085
8 Years$45,617
10 Years$49,458
10-Year Earnings by Gender
Women
$36,100
Men
$46,800
More About This School
Varsity Sports
Rankings
History & Fun Facts
Source: Wikipedia