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Western Carolina University and Winston-Salem State University are both public institutions — Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, NC and Winston-Salem State University in Winston-Salem, NC. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Cullowhee, NC · Public
Acceptance rate: 81.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 10,024
Tuition: $8,630/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 60.3%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Education
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Cullowhee, NC with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
Winston-Salem, NC · Public
Acceptance rate: 78.3%
Undergrad enrollment: 4,170
Tuition: $16,782/year
Student-faculty ratio: 15.0:1
Graduation rate: 46.7%
Top programs: Health professions, Biological sciences, Business and marketing
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Winston-Salem, NC with published program strength in Health professions and Biological sciences.
| Factor | Western Carolina University | Winston-Salem State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 81.8% | 78.3% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1080–1270 |
| 830–1020 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 19–25 | 15–20 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 10,024 | 4,170 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $8,630/year | $16,782/year |
| Average net price after aid | $13,315 | $13,479 |
| Graduation rate | 60.3% | 46.7% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $49,458 | $45,344 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 16.0:1 | 15.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Cullowhee, NC | Winston-Salem, NC |
| Largest program areas | Health professions, Business and marketing, Education | Health professions, Biological sciences, Business and marketing |
Winston-Salem State University is more selective (78.3% vs 81.8% acceptance rate). Western Carolina University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($13,315 vs $13,479). Western Carolina University reports the higher graduation rate (60.3% vs 46.7%). Western Carolina University is the larger undergraduate campus (10,024 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Western Carolina University and Winston-Salem State University
Western Carolina University has an acceptance rate of 81.8%; Winston-Salem State University is around 78.3%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Western Carolina University tuition is $8,630/year. Winston-Salem State University is $16,782/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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