Western Carolina University: Is It Worth It?
Cullowhee, North Carolina · Public · Website
ROI Score
8.3
Net Price/Year
$13,315
avg with financial aid
10yr Earnings
$49,458
median, all graduates
Median Debt
$21,868
at graduation
Is Western Carolina University Worth It?
Graduates earn a median of $49,458 per year ten years after enrollment. With an average net price of $13,315 per year, the total estimated cost for a four-year degree is approximately $53,260.
Based on median earnings, the degree typically pays for itself in approximately 1.1 years.
The median graduate leaves with $21,868 in debt, which represents about 44%of one year's earnings at the 10-year mark.
Note: These figures reflect all graduates regardless of major. Individual outcomes vary significantly by field of study, career choices, and personal circumstances.
Earnings vs. Debt
Net Price by Family Income
Admissions Snapshot
Acceptance Rate
81.8%
Avg SAT
1157
ACT Midpoint
22
Enrollment
10,024
Completion & Retention
6-Year Graduation Rate
59.7%
National avg: ~60%
Retention Rate
79.1%
First-year students returning
3yr Repayment Rate
329300.0%
Grads making progress on loans
Cost Breakdown
In-State Tuition
$4,630
Out-of-State Tuition
$8,630
Avg Net Price
$13,315
After grants/scholarships
Similar Schools
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Fayetteville State University
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ROI: 11.7
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
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ROI: 10.0
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Western Carolina University worth the money?
Based on federal data, Western Carolina University graduates earn a median of $49,458 ten years after enrollment, with a median debt of $21,868 at graduation. The ROI score is 8.3.
What do Western Carolina University graduates earn?
The median earnings for Western Carolina University graduates is $43,085 six years after enrollment and $49,458 ten years after enrollment, according to the College Scorecard.
What is the acceptance rate at Western Carolina University?
The acceptance rate at Western Carolina University is 81.8%.
How much debt do Western Carolina University graduates have?
The median debt at graduation for Western Carolina University students is $21,868.
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings data reflects median earnings 10 years after enrollment for all graduates. Debt figures reflect median debt at graduation for completers. Individual outcomes may vary.