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

Wise, VA — Big Stone Gap, VA

Metric
University of Virginia's College at Wise
Wise, VA
Mountain Empire Community College
Big Stone Gap, VA
Location Wise, VA Big Stone Gap, VA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 1,101 1,282
Acceptance Rate 28.5%
SAT Average 1,050
In-State Tuition $11,780 $5,007
Out-of-State Tuition $28,010 $11,445
Avg Net Price $9,210 $8,852
Median Debt at Graduation $16,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 48.3%
Retention Rate 71.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $39,725 $30,368
Median Earnings (10 yr) $45,325 $32,622
Loan Repayment Rate 72800.0%

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

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

How do University of Virginia's College at Wise and Mountain Empire Community College compare?
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. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Virginia's College at Wise or Mountain Empire Community College?
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, University of Virginia's College at Wise or Mountain Empire Community College?
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.

Related

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