Western Carolina University vs Southwestern Community College
Cullowhee, NC — Sylva, NC
| Metric | Western Carolina University Cullowhee, NC | Southwestern Community College Sylva, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Cullowhee, NC | Sylva, NC |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 10,024 | 1,249 |
| Acceptance Rate | 81.8% | — |
| SAT Average | 1,157 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $4,630 | $4,112 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $8,630 | $13,184 |
| Avg Net Price | $13,315 | $5,207 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,868 | $10,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 59.7% | — |
| Retention Rate | 79.1% | — |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $43,085 | $31,660 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $49,458 | $34,145 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 329300.0% | 34400.0% |
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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Southwestern Community College
Sylva, NC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Western Carolina University and Southwestern Community College 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. Southwestern Community College (Sylva, NC) has no published acceptance rate, in-state tuition of $4,112, and median 10-year earnings of $34,145.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Western Carolina University or Southwestern Community College?▼
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, Western Carolina University or Southwestern Community College?▼
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