Savanna Hoffman
Western Carolina University (WCU) is a public university located in Cullowhee, North Carolina. It is part of the University of North Carolina system and is the westernmost campus in the UNC system. WCU offers a range of academic programs and has seen significant growth in enrollment over the past decade. In Fall 2023, the university had a total undergraduate enrollment of 10,009 students, while Fall 2024 saw an increase to a total enrollment of 11,686 students. WCU attracts students from across the state, country, and the globe, providing access to higher education and driving economic development in the region.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Total number of students | 10,009 (fall 2023) |
| Total enrollment | 11,686 (fall 2024) |
| First-time freshmen | 2,037 (fall 2024) |
| New transfer students | 1,003 (fall 2024) |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 12,000+ |
| Male students | 4,769 (2024) |
| Out-of-state students | 2,037 (2024) |
| Campus size | 682 acres |
| Tuition and fees (in-state) | $4,630 |
| Tuition and fees (out-of-state) | $8,630 |
What You'll Learn
Western Carolina University's undergraduate enrollment
Western Carolina University (WCU) is a public university located in Cullowhee, North Carolina. It is part of the University of North Carolina system and is the westernmost campus in the UNC system. WCU offers a broad range of academic programs that are recognised for their quality and affordability. The university has seen significant growth in recent years, with enrollment exceeding 12,000 students in the past decade.
As of Fall 2023, WCU has a total undergraduate enrollment of 10,009 students. This number reflects a strong enrollment and retention rate for the university. WCU's first-year retention rate improved by 3.6% over the previous year and 7.8% over the past two years, rebounding from declines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
WCU's undergraduate enrollment consists of both full-time and part-time students. The university offers a variety of undergraduate programs, including more than 120 majors and minors. These programs cover a wide range of disciplines, such as accounting, athletic training, communication sciences and disorders, entrepreneurship, geosciences, natural resources, forensic science, nursing, and teaching education.
The university attracts students from across North Carolina, the United States, and the world. WCU's student body includes individuals from 48 states and 35 countries. The campus life at WCU is vibrant and diverse, with various extracurricular activities, organisations, and housing options available for undergraduate students.
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Total enrollment across the years
Western Carolina University (WCU) has experienced fluctuations in its total enrollment numbers over the years, with a mix of growth and declines. Here is an overview of its enrollment trends:
WCU, founded in 1889, has a long history of providing higher education to students in the mountain region of North Carolina. In recent years, the university has seen substantial growth, with enrollment exceeding 12,000 students from diverse geographical backgrounds. This surge in enrollment can be attributed to the university's vision of becoming a national model for student learning and engagement, coupled with its broad range of top-ranked, affordable academic programs.
In the Fall of 2020, WCU witnessed a notable enrollment of 12,243 students, marking the ninth time in a decade that record enrollment was achieved. This number, however, dipped slightly in subsequent years, with 11,686 students enrolled for the Fall 2024 semester. Despite this minor fluctuation, WCU's retention rate showed improvement, rebounding from the declines caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Fall 2024 enrollment figures also revealed an increase in male students, with a total of 4,769, and a rise in out-of-state students, reflecting the university's ability to attract a diverse student body.
WCU's main campus in Cullowhee, North Carolina, is surrounded by the biodiversity of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, offering a unique learning environment and outdoor recreational opportunities. The university's commitment to student engagement, academic excellence, and affordability has likely contributed to its consistent appeal to students from across the state, country, and beyond.
While the total enrollment numbers may vary from year to year, WCU's dedication to providing a well-rounded education and fostering student success remains unwavering. With its range of undergraduate and graduate programs, WCU continues to be a sought-after educational institution, attracting students from near and far.
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The university's location and campus size
Western Carolina University's main campus is located in Cullowhee, North Carolina, just over 50 miles west of Asheville. The campus covers 600 acres and is surrounded by one of the most biodiverse regions in the state. The campus is situated in the mountains, providing students with unparalleled learning and adventure opportunities. The nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular destination for students interested in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, backpacking, and camping. In the winter, ski areas are also accessible.
The campus's rural location fosters a connected, supportive, and safe community for students. It also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and paddleboarding. This has led to Western Carolina University being named the No. 1 Outdoor Adventure College in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic.
The university's location in the Southern Appalachian Mountains provides access to a diverse range of flora and fauna, benefiting various academic programs. The unique geographical setting allows for research and exploration in the surrounding natural environment.
In addition to its main campus, Western Carolina University operates an instructional site at Biltmore Park Towne Square in Asheville. This location focuses on providing degree programs for working professionals, including part-time undergraduate programs in nursing and engineering, as well as graduate programs in business administration, accounting, and school administration. The Asheville site has been offering degree programs for over 75 years, catering to the educational needs of working students in the region.
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Tuition fees for in-state and out-of-state students
Western Carolina University (WCU) is a public university located in Cullowhee, North Carolina. It is the westernmost campus in the UNC system. WCU offers over 120 undergraduate majors and minors, along with more than 40 graduate degree and certificate programs. The university has a total undergraduate enrollment of 10,009 students (as of Fall 2023), with a campus size of 682 acres.
Now, onto the tuition fees for in-state and out-of-state students. WCU is an NC Promise campus, which means it aims to address college affordability by reducing tuition costs with funding from the state of North Carolina. This initiative ensures that students pay less for their education while still receiving the same high-quality educational experience.
For the 2024-2025 academic year, the proposed undergraduate tuition and fees for full-time students (enrolled for at least 12 hours) are as follows:
- In-state tuition and fees: $4,630
- Out-of-state tuition and fees: $8,630
These rates are subject to change until approved by the UNC Board of Governors and authorized by the state legislature. It's important to note that tuition rates are reviewed and set annually by the North Carolina legislature, and the university reserves the right to alter charges without prior notice.
The tuition fees cover only a part of the total cost of a student's education. There are additional fees that students may be responsible for, such as health insurance, book rentals, orientation, parking permits, residence hall, and meal plans. These fees can vary depending on the student's specific situation and choices.
Graduate tuition and fees at WCU also vary depending on the program. Certain graduate programs carry a tuition differential in addition to the regular graduate tuition to maintain and enhance the excellence of the program.
WCU offers a cost calculator on their website to help students estimate their costs per semester. This tool can be useful for prospective students to understand the financial commitment required to attend the university.
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The number of residence halls on campus
Western Carolina University has experienced exponential growth over the past decade, with enrolment exceeding 12,000 students from across the state, country, and the world. The university's main campus is located in Cullowhee, NC, and offers a broad range of academic programs that are nationally recognised for their quality and affordability.
Residence Halls on Campus
The number of residence halls on the Western Carolina University campus is an important aspect of campus life and student accommodation. The university recognises the significance of providing a clean, safe, and healthy living environment that aligns with its educational mission, goals, and creed. To that end, Western Carolina University offers a variety of residence hall options for its students.
The university's main campus in Cullowhee boasts sixteen unique residence halls, each with its own special appeal and amenities. These residence halls serve as more than just accommodation; they are communities built by the students who live there, supported by the dedicated WCU Resident Life Staff.
Among the residence halls on campus are the Albright/Benton Halls, Balsam Hall, and Blue Ridge Hall. These halls provide students with a sense of belonging and the opportunity to form meaningful connections with their peers. Living in these residence halls offers students numerous benefits, including enhanced opportunities to get involved with the university and its activities, fostering a unique university living experience.
The residence halls at Western Carolina University cater to a diverse range of student needs and preferences. For instance, Brinson Honors College members can select rooms in Balsam or Blue Ridge Halls. Additionally, the university ensures that students with qualifying disabilities have equal access to housing and provides accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other relevant laws.
In conclusion, Western Carolina University's sixteen residence halls on the main campus play a pivotal role in shaping the student experience. By providing a supportive and engaging environment, these halls contribute to the university's commitment to fostering academic excellence, social connections, and personal growth for its diverse student body.
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Frequently asked questions
As of Fall 2024, 11,686 students are enrolled at Western Carolina University.
In Fall 2023, Western Carolina University had 10,009 undergraduate students enrolled. In Fall 2020, the enrollment number was 12,243.
Yes, the enrollment at Western Carolina University has been increasing. The university saw its highest enrollment in Fall 2020 with 12,243 students, followed by a decline in the next two years. However, Fall 2024 saw an increase in enrollment again, with a total of 11,686 students.
