Southwestern Community College vs Western Carolina University

Sylva, NC — Cullowhee, NC

Metric
Southwestern Community College
Sylva, NC
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC
Location Sylva, NC Cullowhee, NC
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 1,249 10,024
Acceptance Rate 81.8%
SAT Average 1,157
In-State Tuition $4,112 $4,630
Out-of-State Tuition $13,184 $8,630
Avg Net Price $5,207 $13,315
Median Debt at Graduation $10,500 $21,868
4-Year Graduation Rate 59.7%
Retention Rate 79.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $31,660 $43,085
Median Earnings (10 yr) $34,145 $49,458
Loan Repayment Rate 34400.0% 329300.0%

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

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Southwestern Community College
Sylva, NC
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Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Southwestern Community College and Western Carolina University compare?
Southwestern Community College (Sylva, NC) has no published acceptance rate, in-state tuition of $4,112, and median 10-year earnings of $34,145. Western Carolina University (Cullowhee, NC) has an acceptance rate of 81.8%, in-state tuition of $4,630, and median 10-year earnings of $49,458.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Southwestern Community College or Western Carolina University?
Western Carolina University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $49,458 vs $34,145. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Southwestern Community College or Western Carolina University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Southwestern Community College is the more affordable option at $5,207 per year versus $13,315.

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

Related

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