North Carolina State University at Raleigh vs Western Carolina University
5
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
2
Western Carolina University
Key Metrics Compared
Official Data| Metric | North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Western Carolina University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 40% | 87% |
| Graduation Rate | 85% | 60% |
| Avg Earnings (5yr) | $57,623 | $43,085 |
| Median Debt | $20,121 | $21,868 |
| Tuition (In-State) | $8,895 | $4,532 |
| Retention Rate | 93% | 76% |
| Financial Aid | 34% | 44% |
Comparison Analysis
North Carolina State University at Raleigh graduates earn significantly more than Western Carolina University graduates. The median earnings for NC State graduates are $57,623, while Western Carolina graduates earn $43,085. NC State has a higher graduation rate at 84.6% compared to Western Carolina's 59.8%. NC State also has a much lower acceptance rate, at 39.9%, while Western Carolina's acceptance rate is 86.7%.
Western Carolina University has a lower tuition cost. Tuition at Western Carolina is $4,532, which is less than half of NC State's tuition of $8,895.
When considering overall value, NC State's higher earnings and graduation rate suggest a stronger return on investment despite the higher tuition. Students weighing their decision should consider their academic preparedness, as NC State has a much lower acceptance rate. Students should also consider their career goals and financial constraints.
Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data
Shared Programs
| Shared Major | North Carolina State University at Raleigh Earnings | Western Carolina University Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations | $56,877 | $39,513 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations | $56,877 | $73,460 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations | $56,877 | $0 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations | $113,700 | $39,513 |
| Biology, General | $36,157 | $28,381 |
| Psychology, General | $29,738 | $27,505 |
| Biology, General | $36,157 | $0 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations | $113,700 | $73,460 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations | $113,700 | $0 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations | $0 | $39,513 |