Is Western Carolina University worth it?
Cullowhee, NC · public
Verdict
Typical students pay $13,315 a year after aid, graduate with $21,868 in federal debt, and earn $43,085 six years after enrolling — an estimated monthly loan payment of $234, with a debt break-even of about 5.1 years.
Net price / year
$13,315
Admission rate
82%
Graduation rate
—
Median debt
$21,868
Earnings (6 yr)
$43,085
Earnings (10 yr)
$49,458
Est. monthly loan payment
$234
Loan-to-income ratio
51%
Debt break-even
5.1 years
How Western Carolina University compares
FAQ
How much does it cost to attend Western Carolina University?
The federal average net price after grants and scholarships is $13,315 a year. That figure reflects what a typical student actually pays after grants and scholarships, not the sticker price.
How much debt do Western Carolina University graduates typically carry?
Students who complete a program at Western Carolina University leave with a median federal debt of $21,868, based on the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard.
What do Western Carolina University graduates earn?
Six years after enrolling, former students report median earnings of $43,085, drawn from federal tax records aggregated by the College Scorecard.
What is the graduation rate at Western Carolina University?
Graduation rate data is not currently published for this school.
Is Western Carolina University worth the debt?
Based on median debt and 6-year earnings, it would take roughly 5.1 years of 10% income allocation to pay off the typical debt load — compare that against your own expected major and career path before deciding.
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.