Western Carolina University vs California State University-Bakersfield
Cullowhee, NC — Bakersfield, CA
| Metric | Western Carolina University Cullowhee, NC | California State University-Bakersfield Bakersfield, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Cullowhee, NC | Bakersfield, CA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 10,024 | 8,577 |
| Acceptance Rate | 81.8% | 93.8% |
| SAT Average | 1,157 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $4,630 | $8,090 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $8,630 | $20,690 |
| Avg Net Price | $13,315 | $5,652 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,868 | $16,600 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 59.7% | 49.6% |
| Retention Rate | 79.1% | 78.8% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $43,085 | $44,282 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $49,458 | $59,009 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 329300.0% | 313600.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC
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California State University-Bakersfield
Bakersfield, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Western Carolina University and California State University-Bakersfield compare?▼
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. California State University-Bakersfield (Bakersfield, CA) has an acceptance rate of 93.8%, in-state tuition of $8,090, and median 10-year earnings of $59,009.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Western Carolina University or California State University-Bakersfield?▼
California State University-Bakersfield graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $59,009 vs $49,458. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Western Carolina University or California State University-Bakersfield?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Bakersfield is the more affordable option at $5,652 per year versus $13,315.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Western Carolina University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 59.7% vs 49.6%.
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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