Western Carolina University vs Franklin W Olin College of Engineering

Cullowhee, NC — Needham, MA

Metric
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC
Franklin W Olin College of Engineering
Needham, MA
Location Cullowhee, NC Needham, MA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 10,024 377
Acceptance Rate 81.8% 25.2%
SAT Average 1,157 1,520
In-State Tuition $4,630 $66,398
Out-of-State Tuition $8,630 $66,398
Avg Net Price $13,315 $25,171
Median Debt at Graduation $21,868 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 59.7% 94.2%
Retention Rate 79.1% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $43,085 $105,483
Median Earnings (10 yr) $49,458 $129,455
Loan Repayment Rate 329300.0% 3000.0%

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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Franklin W Olin College of Engineering
Needham, MA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Western Carolina University and Franklin W Olin College of Engineering 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. Franklin W Olin College of Engineering (Needham, MA) has an acceptance rate of 25.2%, in-state tuition of $66,398, and median 10-year earnings of $129,455.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Western Carolina University or Franklin W Olin College of Engineering?
Franklin W Olin College of Engineering graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $129,455 vs $49,458. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Western Carolina University or Franklin W Olin College of Engineering?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Western Carolina University is the more affordable option at $13,315 per year versus $25,171.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Franklin W Olin College of Engineering has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 94.2% 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