Western Carolina University vs Wagner College

Cullowhee, NC — Staten Island, NY

Metric
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC
Wagner College
Staten Island, NY
Location Cullowhee, NC Staten Island, NY
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 10,024 1,651
Acceptance Rate 81.8% 88.0%
SAT Average 1,157 1,243
In-State Tuition $4,630 $53,200
Out-of-State Tuition $8,630 $53,200
Avg Net Price $13,315 $28,241
Median Debt at Graduation $21,868 $25,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 59.7% 66.7%
Retention Rate 79.1% 83.4%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $43,085 $63,439
Median Earnings (10 yr) $49,458 $74,360
Loan Repayment Rate 329300.0% 77200.0%

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

Full Profile
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Wagner College
Staten Island, NY
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Western Carolina University and Wagner 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. Wagner College (Staten Island, NY) has an acceptance rate of 88.0%, in-state tuition of $53,200, and median 10-year earnings of $74,360.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Western Carolina University or Wagner College?
Wagner College graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $74,360 vs $49,458. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Western Carolina University or Wagner College?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Western Carolina University is the more affordable option at $13,315 per year versus $28,241.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Wagner College has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 66.7% vs 59.7%.

More Comparisons

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