Western Carolina University Overview

Western Carolina University is a four-year, full-time, selective, higher transfer-in, higher education institution located in Cullowhee, NC. It has an enrollment of 9,980 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 79.42%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $13,640. Tuition is $4,367.00 without financial aid.

Western Carolina University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Western Carolina University, 74.63% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Western Carolina University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to 1.

Western Carolina University Website

Western Carolina University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 79.42%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required

• The average SAT score was 1125.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 22.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Western Carolina University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $13,640. The in-state tuition is $4,367.00. Out-of-state tuition is $8,367.00

The average tuition is:

• $8,951, when family income is less than $30,000

• $11,422, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $14,153, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $16,890, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $18,128, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 48.60% of students received a federal student loan and 34.53% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $8,367.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

Western Carolina University Net Price Calculator

Western Carolina University Majors/Salaries

Western Carolina University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Western Carolina University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Natural Resources Conservation and Research. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,964
• Natural Resources Management and Policy. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,281
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,250
• Radio, Television, and Digital Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $18,771
• Computer Science. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $53,775
• Education, General. (Master’s Degree) – $41,087
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Master’s Degree) – $52,107
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Doctoral Degree) – $78,343
• Special Education and Teaching. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,487
• Student Counseling and Personnel Services. (Master’s Degree) – $37,856
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,720
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,903
• Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $62,012
• Engineering Technology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $54,996
• Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $42,682
• Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians. (Master’s Degree) – $57,318
• Construction Engineering Technologies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $58,221
• Construction Engineering Technologies. (Master’s Degree) – $76,460
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,519
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,704
• International/Global Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,685
• Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,554
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,739
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,684
• Psychology, General. (Master’s Degree) – $27,476
• Criminal Justice and Corrections. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,615
• Security Science and Technology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,017
• Public Administration. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $52,107
• Public Administration. (Master’s Degree) – $43,426
• Social Work. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,167
• Social Work. (Master’s Degree) – $44,170
• Anthropology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,267
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,685
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,997
• Design and Applied Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,847
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $22,841
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,850
• Music. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,368
• Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $22,710
• Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. (Master’s Degree) – $52,733
• Health and Medical Administrative Services. (Master’s Degree) – $46,087
• Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $49,227
• Public Health. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,829
• Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,907
• Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. (Doctoral Degree) – $67,324
• Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,234
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $57,318
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Master’s Degree) – $103,913
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,126
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $55,286
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,856
• Accounting and Related Services. (Master’s Degree) – $55,512
• Finance and Financial Management Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,369
• Hospitality Administration/Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,939
• Human Resources Management and Services. (Master’s Degree) – $64,990
• Management Information Systems and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,821
• Marketing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,896

Western Carolina University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Western Carolina University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.98%
• Asian: 1.33%
• Black: 5.87%
• Hispanic: 7.75%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.09%
• Non-resident alien: 1.55%
• Two or more races: 3.37%
• Unknown: 1.56%
• White: 77.49%

At Western Carolina University, 20.66% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Western Carolina University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Western Carolina University?

School spirit is strong at Western Carolina University. The students and staff are very proud to be a part of the Catamount community and they show it through their school pride and enthusiasm at sporting events, concerts, and festivals. The university offers a range of programs and activities that keep the students engaged and involved in campus life. There are also a variety of student organizations that contribute to the school spirit and help foster a sense of community on campus. Overall, if you attend Western Carolina University, you’ll likely find a supportive and enthusiastic atmosphere that will help you feel more connected to your school and peers.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Western Carolina University?

Western Carolina University offers a wide range of extracurricular activities for its students. Some of the most popular extracurriculars at Western Carolina University include: 1. Outdoor Adventure Program: This program offers opportunities for students to participate in a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and rock climbing. 2. Club Sports: There are more than 20 club sports available at Western Carolina University, including basketball, ultimate frisbee, soccer, and more. 3. Greek Life: Western Carolina University has a thriving Greek life community with fraternities and sororities for students to get involved in. 4. Student Government Association: The Student Government Association at Western Carolina University is responsible for advocating for the student body and organizing events on campus. 5. Music and Performing Arts Groups: Students can join music and performing arts groups like the marching band, jazz band, and theater productions. These are just a few examples of the many extracurricular activities available at Western Carolina University. Students can also explore other options like academic clubs, volunteer organizations, and more.

How are the food choices at Western Carolina University?

Western Carolina University offers a variety of food options to its students. Dining options on campus include a food court, cafes, markets, and a dining hall which provides all-you-can-eat meals for students. The dining hall features a range of cuisines including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Additionally, there are several restaurants and fast-food chains located near the campus where students can dine.

Is there Greek life at Western Carolina University?

Yes, Western Carolina University (WCU) has a strong Greek life presence with more than 20 fraternities and sororities on campus. These organizations are governed by the Interfraternity Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council, and Panhellenic Council. WCU’s Greek community is dedicated to leadership, scholarship, philanthropy, and community service. Students who join a fraternity or sorority often find a supportive group of friends and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

What is Western Carolina University known for?

Western Carolina University is known for its strong programs in education, nursing, engineering, and business. The university has also gained prominence for its focus on hands-on learning opportunities, including internships, service learning, and undergraduate research. Additionally, WCU is recognized for its commitment to sustainability, as well as its vibrant campus life and numerous outdoor recreational activities, particularly hiking and mountain biking in the nearby mountains.

What are the most popular school clubs at Western Carolina University?

Western Carolina University offers a diverse range of student-led clubs and organizations. Some of the most popular clubs at the university include: 1. Campus Activities Board (CAB) – plans and executes events on campus. 2. Student Government Association (SGA) – represents the student body and creates initiatives to improve student life. 3. Outdoor Adventure Club – plans outdoor trips and adventures for students. 4. Greek Life – includes several sororities and fraternities. 5. WCU Pride Alliance – a club for students who identify as LGBTQ+ and their allies. 6. Dance Team – performs at sporting events and other university events. 7. Ultimate Frisbee – a competitive and recreational sport club. 8. Anime/Manga Club – for students who enjoy Japanese animation and comics. 9. Habitat for Humanity – a service club that partners with the local Habitat for Humanity chapter to help build and repair homes. 10. Criminal Justice Club – for students interested in law enforcement and the criminal justice system.

Is the campus at Western Carolina University safe?

Western Carolina University takes campus safety very seriously. The university has its own police department that is fully staffed by state-certified law enforcement officers. In addition to a police department, the university also has a 24/7 campus security team that monitors the campus and residence halls. Furthermore, the university has a number of programs in place to promote safety, such as emergency blue light phones (that are located throughout the campus), a text alert system, and a safe walk program, among other things. Overall, Western Carolina University has a good reputation for campus safety and works tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of its students, faculty, and staff.