Monthly Update
5.2.2024
Our deposit deadline for incoming Fall 2024 first-year students is May 15th, but if you already know you plan to attend WCU, we recommend you submit sooner. Your deposit will secure your spot in the class and get you in line for housing options. If you're interested in visiting campus, please join us for a daily campus tour. We'd love to see you and tell you all about our home here in the Whee! Learn More
gradeB
Overall Niche Grade
How are grades calculated?Data Sources
Academics
gradeB
Value
gradeB+
Diversity
gradeB+
Campus
gradeB+
Athletics
gradeB+
Party Scene
gradeB+
Professors
gradeB+
Location
gradeB
Dorms
gradeB+
Campus Food
gradeB minus
Student Life
gradeB+
Safety
gradeB
About
About Western Carolina...
- Common App Accepted
- Public College
- SAT/ACT Optional
- Some Online Degrees
- Branch of
- University of North Carolina System
Athletic Division
NCAA Division I-FCS
Athletic Conference
Southern Conference
- North Carolina
- Cullowhee
From Western Carolina University
Western Carolina University is proud to be the home of adventurers and action-seekers. Where we wonder why, wander out and win the day. Here in Cullowhee, we face our fears and find purpose. We make discoveries and memories. And we bring Catamount spirit into every endeavor.
WCU is a vital force in the region. We're committed to equipping students and residents alike with the courage, confidence, knowledge and solutions they need to thrive. We are looking for students that are willing to leave their apprehensions behind and see where courage and curiosity can take you - knowing that sometimes, the best discoveries are made when you look beyond what's on the map.
Blaze a trail that's boldly your own as you live Western!
Upcoming Events
Western Carolina University Rankings
Niche rankings are based on rigorous analysis of key statistics from the U.S. Department of Education and millions of reviews.
See All Western Carolina University Rankings
Admissions
Application Deadline
Deadline for application submissions. Please contact the school for more details.
February 1
Acceptance Rate
85%
SAT Range
1020-1240
ACT Range
19-26
Application Fee
$65
SAT/ACT
Considered but not required
High School GPA
Required
Accepts Common App
Yes
Read More About Admissions
Will You Get Into WCU?
Test Scores and High School GPA for Western Carolina University See Other Colleges
YouTube Video
Cost
Net Price
$13,022/ year
National
$15,523
Average cost after financial aid for students receiving grant or scholarship aid, as reported by the college.
Average Total Aid Awarded
$4,526/ year
National
$7,535
Students Receiving Financial Aid
100%
Find Private Student Loans
Find College Scholarships
Find college scholarships
Academics
Professors
gradeB+
Based on faculty accomplishments, salary, student reviews, and additional factors.
Student Faculty Ratio
14:1
Evening Degree Programs
No
80%
of students agree that professors put a lot of effort into teaching their classes.95 responses
67%
of students agree that it is easy to get the classes they want.120 responses
67%
of students agree that the workload is easy to manage.120 responses
Read More About Academics
Majors
Most Popular Majors
242 Graduates
Nursing
167 Graduates
Criminal Justice and Safety Studies
157 Graduates
120 Graduates
Marketing
119 Graduates
Biology
97 Graduates
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT Paramedic)
81 Graduates
Public Administration
76 Graduates
Health Service Preparatory Studies
72 Graduates
Engineering Technician
63 Graduates
More
See All Majors
College of Engineering and Technology
At the College of Engineering and Technology, we believe that engineers have a unique opportunity to shape the future. So we equip you with everything you need to maximize your impact. You will have a chance to research, prototype, test and discover, in an environment where you’re surrounded by like-minded peers and connected to a professional network as you seek a remarkable life for yourself.
Online
Programs Offered Entirely Online
Total number of complete undergraduate programs offered online or through distance learning.
9
Offers Online Courses
College offers distance education courses.
Yes
Online Certificate Programs
Total number of certificate degree programs offered online or through distance education.
Online Associates Programs
Total number of associate degree programs offered online or through distance education.
Online Bachelor's Programs
Total number of bachelor's degree programs offered online or through distance education.
9
Explore All Online Majors
How Students Learn
Based on class setting of student enrollment.
Mix of Online and on Campus
29%
On Campus
49%
Online
22%
Students
Full-Time Enrollment
8,031Undergrads
Part-Time Undergrads
1,925
Undergrads Over 25
20%
Pell Grant
36%
Varsity Athletes
5%
Poll
What one word or phrase best describes the typical student at this school?
Based on
88 responses
Outdoorsy
39%
Unique. Most people do whatever they like.
30%
You have several different character types
16%
Active
7%
Outgoing
3%
I'm a new graduate student taking online classes
2%
Stressed
2%
More
Read More About the Students
Campus Life
Freshmen Live On-Campus
No data available —
Poll
67%
of students say that Greek life is average, and no one will treat you differently if you don't join.135 responses
Poll
56%
of students say varsity sports are a big part of campus life.154 responses
Poll
What one word or phrase best describes your school?
Based on
96 responses
Beautiful
46%
Amazing
13%
Good fit
9%
Peaceful
9%
It will do
7%
Home away from home
4%
WCU Rocks!
3%
More
Read More About Campus Life
After College
Median Earnings 6 Years After Graduation
$37,700/ year
National
$33,028
Graduation Rate
61%
National
49%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation
94%
National
83%
86%
of students feel confident they will find a job in their field after graduation.64 responses
Read More About Life After Graduation
Western Carolina University Reviews
Rating 3.83 out of 5 1,647 reviews
Rating 5 out of 5
Western's online programs offer a fantastic opportunity for academic growth with flexibility, allowing students like me to manage studies alongside other commitments. The courses are well-structured, with accessible resources that enable deep engagement with the material at a comfortable pace. The online format has been especially beneficial, fostering interaction and collaboration through intuitive learning platforms and responsive instructors. The discussion forums and virtual group projects bring together diverse perspectives, enriching the learning experience. The support from peers and professors has been invaluable, boosting my confidence and motivation. As summer approaches, I eagerly anticipate taking more classes, continuing my journey of learning and growth at Western. The experience has been transformative, affirming the quality and impact of Western's online programs.
- Junior
- 16 days ago
Rating 5 out of 5
My time at Western Carolina truly was the best period of my life. From receiving a great education, creating life lasting friendships, and getting to live in a small town that I loved so dearly, I could not have asked for anything more. My four years there were the most fun, adventurous, and informative years I could have ever asked for. Great professors, classes, aid, campus life, and overall people. I wish I could do it all over again every single day!
- Alum
- a month ago
Rating 5 out of 5
During my time here at Western Carolina University, I have come out of my shell and have my life to the fullest here. I have made many friends and great connections with my professors, students in my classes, and the local community. Something I found very vaulted during my freshmen year was I was put into a living-learning community with other education majors. This means I have classes and live with students I will spend my next four years with. Within this community, I have made many great friends and relationships that will follow me during my time here. Western Carolina University has also provided me with more than a community. This place has provided me with a pace to explore nature and be outside with an amazing campus to walk or hike on local hiking trails. Overall, Western is an amazing college that has pushed me out of my comfort zone for the better!
- Freshman
- 3 months ago
