Western Carolina University

What are the graduation rates for students at Western Carolina University?

Western Carolina University demonstrates a graduation rate that is considered average compared to national benchmarks. The overall six-year graduation rate stands at 59%, placing the university in the top 45% percentile range, while the four-year graduation rate is somewhat lower at 41%, situating it in the bottom half of institutions.

The university's retention rate is also average, with 76% of first-year students returning for a second year, which reflects moderately steady student persistence through initial coursework phases. When examining graduation rates by gender, women tend to graduate at a slightly higher rate than men. Female students graduate at a rate of 62%, which is in the top 50% percentile, while male students graduate at 55%, placing them just above the median in comparison to peer institutions.

These metrics indicate a moderate level of academic completion at Western Carolina University, with a small but notable gender gap favoring female students in graduation outcomes.

What is the earning potential for graduates at Western Carolina University?

Graduates from Western Carolina University experience a wide range of earnings depending on their chosen field of study. Those pursuing engineering degrees have some of the highest reported incomes, with general engineering graduates earning around $62,214 annually. Specialized areas within engineering, such as electrical, electronics, and communications engineering, show even higher earnings, averaging $65,703. Similarly, graduates in engineering technology fields report salaries in the mid-$57,000 range.

Computer Science stands out as a lucrative major as well, with graduates earning about $54,769 per year. Registered Nursing and Nursing Administration graduates have strong earning potential, with annual incomes near $58,362. Public Administration degree holders earn comparably well, with average salaries around $55,712.

Among business-related degrees, Finance and Financial Management graduates earn approximately $38,206, while Accounting majors receive close to $36,962 annually. Graduates with degrees in Management Information Systems and General Business Administration command salaries around $36,319 and $33,951 respectively. Marketing graduates report incomes near $33,207, and Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations, though data is not reported here, could be an area to watch given the trends.

Education-related degrees, particularly in Special Education and Teaching, as well as in specific levels and subjects of teacher education, produce earnings in the mid-$34,000 range. Public Health graduates earn slightly higher, averaging around $37,148.

Several social science and humanities degrees exhibit more modest starting salaries. For example, Criminal Justice and Corrections graduates earn an average of $35,154, while English Language and Literature majors receive about $30,162. Social Work graduates earn nearly $30,194, and degrees in areas like Political Science and Government command around $25,090.

Creative fields such as Design and Applied Arts, Fine and Studio Arts, and Drama or Theatre Arts report earnings close to $23,000 to $30,000. Science disciplines like Biology offer about $24,606, and Chemistry graduates earn roughly $33,853.

Overall, students interested in engineering, computer science, nursing, and business-related fields may anticipate higher income prospects after graduating from Western Carolina University, while those in arts, education, and social sciences typically see more moderate earnings.