Cullowhee, NC

Western Carolina University

At a Glance
Admission, Tuition, Population, and more
Updated: July 13, 2024
Western Carolina University is a four-year, public school located in Cullowhee, NC.
It is classified as Doctoral / Research University by Carnegie Classification.
Western Carolina University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

82% Acceptance Rate

For 2024-25 admission, 19,742 applied, 16,154 accepted, and 2,052 enrolled in Western Carolina.
860 men and 1,192 women first-time, full-time students enrolled.
Admission Stats

1,180 SAT, 23 ACT

In 2024-25, the average SAT score is 1,180 and ACT score is 23. The SAT score of 1180 is good, 67 to 74 as in percentile.
25th pctl.50th pctl.75th pctl.
SAT Score
Total108011801270
Evidence-Based Reading and Writing560610660
Math520570610
ACT Score
Composite192325
Math172125
English182125
More Scores

2025 Tuition & Fees

The 2025 undergraduate tuition & fees are $4,630 for North Carolina residents and $8,630 for others.
The graduate tuition & fees are $7,876 for North Carolina residents and $18,595 for others.
Tuition has increased by 1.15% compared to last year at Western Carolina University.
Cost Breakdown

Financial Aid

9,562 undergraduate students have awarded and the average amount of the aid awarded is $4,565.
For freshmen, 1,900 students (99%) have received financial aid and its average amount is $5,442.
Detailed Financial Aid

Student Population

A total of 11,686 students enrolled Western Carolina in 2025.
By gender, 4,769 men and 6,917 women students are enrolled.
There are 10,112 undergraduate and 1,574 graduate students.
More Demographics Stats

114 Major Programs

  • 31 programs through online
  • 33 graduate programs

Offered Degrees

  • Certificate Programs
  • Bachelor's
  • Master's
  • Doctorate
  • Post-graduate Certificate
Area of Study

Graduation Rate

The graduation rate of Western Carolina is 60% and the transfer-out rate is 27%.
The retention rate is 79% for full-time and 79% for part-time students.
Graduation Rate
60%
Transfer-out Rate
27%
Retention Rate
79%
Students to Faculty Ratio
16 to 1
More Stats

Facutly & Staffs

A total of 769 faculties (instructional staffs) are working for Western Carolina and the average faculty salary is $81,749. The studetns to faculty ratio is 16 to 1.
There are 1,827 non-instructional staffs and the average staff salary is $63,383.
Number of Faculties
769
Average Faculty Salary
$81,749
Number of Staffs
1,827
Average Staff Salary
$63,383

Special Learning Opportunities

  • Distance Learning (online classes)
  • Study Abroad
  • Weekend/Evening College
  • Teacher Certificate

On-Campus Services

  • Academic/career counseling
  • Employment services for students
  • Placement services
  • On-Campus Daycare
  • Libraries
See More

Athletics

Western Carolina University is a member of Southern Conference (SoCon).
See All Members