Western Carolina University
Western
Cullowhee, North Carolina 28723-9646
Data last updated: May 29, 2026
Campus Vibe
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.
Campus Visits
Plan Your Visit
Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1151
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
56.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
-7.6%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$15,348
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
65
Peer Average
92
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Programs (111)
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
76%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •History The Joyner Building served as a combination classroom, auditorium, and administration facility from its completion in 1913 until the 1930s, when other buildings relieved pressure on Joyner.
- •It was destroyed by fire in 1981, at which time it was the oldest building on campus.
- •This designation became the first publicly funded normal school in North Carolina.
- •In 1905, the state assumed title to the school's buildings and property and made it a state institution.
Source: Wikipedia
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from NC state average
Climate (School Year)
Nearest Cities
Getting There
Nearest Airports
Distance to Cities
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Nearby Hotels
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