Western Carolina University vs Columbia University in the City of New York
Cullowhee, NC — New York, NY
| Metric | Western Carolina University Cullowhee, NC | Columbia University in the City of New York New York, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Cullowhee, NC | New York, NY |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 10,024 | 8,973 |
| Acceptance Rate | 81.8% | 4.0% |
| SAT Average | 1,157 | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $4,630 | $71,845 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $8,630 | $71,845 |
| Avg Net Price | $13,315 | $21,590 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,868 | $21,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 59.7% | 95.5% |
| Retention Rate | 79.1% | 98.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $43,085 | $88,535 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $49,458 | $102,491 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 329300.0% | 185800.0% |
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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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Western Carolina University and Columbia University in the City of New York 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. Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Western Carolina University or Columbia University in the City of New York?▼
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $49,458. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Western Carolina University or Columbia University in the City of New York?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Western Carolina University is the more affordable option at $13,315 per year versus $21,590.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 59.7%.
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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