Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University, the westernmost institution in the University of North Carolina System, attracts students from around the globe for its nationally ranked programs, affordability via the NC Promise Tuition Plan, and exceptional student support.

Recognized as a top adventure college and surrounded by the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains, students can explore the region’s vast natural diversity through unrivaled experiential learning and recreational activities. Residential, hybrid and online programs are offered at our main campus in Cullowhee; WCU in Asheville’s Biltmore Park; and wherever students are, via distance learning.

As a Primarily Undergraduate Institution (PUI) located in the Appalachian Mountains, Western Carolina University (WCU) serves a diverse population of students and plays a critical role in regional economic development. We actively engage with regional innovation hubs to provide collaborative research opportunities for our students, faculty, and staff with support from the NSF EPIIC program and our involvement with EMERGE. 

The College of Engineering and Technology has strong programs with a long history in use-inspired research and education and workforce development (EWD) to support industry in Western North Carolina, Upstate South Carolina, North Georgia, and East Tennessee.