Mountain Empire Community College vs University of Virginia's College at Wise

Big Stone Gap, VA-Wise, VA

Metric
Mountain Empire Community College
Big Stone Gap, VA
University of Virginia's College at Wise
Wise, VA
Location Big Stone Gap, VA Wise, VA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 1,282 1,101
Acceptance Rate - 28.5%
SAT Average - 1,050
In-State Tuition $5,007 $11,780
Out-of-State Tuition $11,445 $28,010
Avg Net Price $8,852 $9,210
Median Debt at Graduation - $16,750
4-Year Graduation Rate - 48.3%
Retention Rate - 71.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $30,368 $39,725
Median Earnings (10 yr) $32,622 $45,325
Loan Repayment Rate (Completers) - 71.2%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Mountain Empire Community College
Big Stone Gap, VA
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University of Virginia's College at Wise
Wise, VA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Mountain Empire Community College and University of Virginia's College at Wise compare?
Mountain Empire Community College (Big Stone Gap, VA) has no published acceptance rate, in-state tuition of $5,007, and median 10-year earnings of $32,622. University of Virginia's College at Wise (Wise, VA) has an acceptance rate of 28.5%, in-state tuition of $11,780, and median 10-year earnings of $45,325.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Mountain Empire Community College or University of Virginia's College at Wise?
University of Virginia's College at Wise graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $45,325 vs $32,622. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Mountain Empire Community College or University of Virginia's College at Wise?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Mountain Empire Community College is the more affordable option at $8,852 per year versus $9,210.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025