50 Facts About Western Carolina University

Location and History

Western Carolina University (WCU) is a public institution with a rich history and a scenic location. Let's dive into some key facts about its origins and evolution.

1. Location: WCU is situated in Jackson County, North Carolina, about 50 miles west of Asheville, near the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge mountains.
2. History: Founded in 1889 as a semi-private school, WCU has transformed significantly over the years.
3. Name Changes: The institution has undergone several name changes: Cullowhee Normal and Industrial School (1905), Cullowhee State Normal School (1925), Western Carolina Teachers College (1929), Western Carolina College (1953), and finally, Western Carolina University in 1967.

Student Demographics and Enrollment

WCU boasts a diverse and growing student body. Here are some interesting details about its students.

4. Enrollment: As of Fall 2020, WCU had an enrollment of 12,243 students, with over 11,000 undergraduates.
5. Student Body: Approximately 59% of students are female, and 41% are male. Over 23% identify as part of a racial minority group.
6. Age Distribution: More than 71% of students are between 18 and 24 years old, typical for undergraduates.

Academic Programs and Class Size

WCU offers a wide range of academic programs and maintains a favorable student-to-faculty ratio.

7. Academic Programs: WCU offers more than 115 undergraduate majors and concentrations, along with over 40 graduate programs.
8. Class Size: About 64% of all classes have fewer than 30 students, ensuring personalized learning. The student/faculty ratio is 17 to 1.

Campus Life and Housing

Living on campus at WCU offers a vibrant and engaging experience. Here are some key aspects of campus life.

9. Residence Life: More than 4,500 students live on campus in 17 residence buildings.
10. Dining Options: On-campus dining includes two cafeterias with local produce and multiple national brands like Chick-Fil-A, Starbucks, and Moe's Southwest Grill.

Financial Aid and Tuition

WCU is committed to making education affordable and accessible.

11. Financial Aid: Approximately 83% of WCU students receive some form of financial aid.
12. NC Promise Tuition Plan: As an NC Promise campus, WCU offers reduced tuition rates: $500 per semester for in-state undergraduates and $2,500 for out-of-state undergraduates.

Accreditation and Community Engagement

WCU is recognized for its academic excellence and community involvement.

13. Accreditation: WCU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
14. Community Engagement: Recognized as a community-engaged university by the Carnegie Foundation, WCU demonstrates a strong commitment to service and civic engagement.

Research and Honors Programs

WCU provides ample opportunities for research and honors education.

15. Research Opportunities: WCU has one of the most active undergraduate research programs in the nation.
16. Brinson Honors College: Established to provide an enriched academic experience, the Brinson Honors College offers several interdisciplinary programs.

Graduate School and Library Resources

WCU supports graduate education and provides extensive library resources.

17. Graduate School: The Graduate School coordinates admissions, funding, and degree awards for graduate students.
18. Hunter Library: Hunter Library offers a wide range of resources and services to support student learning and research.

Academic Structure and Scholarships

WCU's academic programs are well-organized and supported by various scholarships.

19. Academic Structure: WCU’s academic programs are housed in six colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business, Education and Allied Professions, David Orr Belcher College of Fine and Performing Arts, Health and Human Sciences, and Engineering and Technology.
20. National Merit Scholarships: WCU is one of four institutions in North Carolina designated as a National Merit sponsoring university.

Rankings and Special Programs

WCU has received various accolades and participates in special programs to benefit students.

21. U.S. News & World Report Rankings: In the 2012 edition, WCU was ranked 14th among public universities in the South that offer master's degrees.
22. NC Promise Program: Since 2018, WCU has been part of the NC Promise program, reducing tuition costs for students.

Diversity and Inclusion

WCU is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.

23. Levern Hamlin Allen Hall: Named in honor of WCU’s first African American student, reflecting its commitment to diversity.
24. Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians: WCU has reinforced its historic relationship with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Campus Growth and Facilities

WCU continues to expand and improve its campus facilities.

25. Enrollment Growth: By 1994, WCU’s enrollment had grown to 6,800 students, and it has continued to grow since then.
26. Recreation Center: A multi-purpose Recreation Center provides state-of-the-art facilities for physical activity.
27. Athletic Facilities: New stadiums for women’s softball, soccer, and track and field enhance the university's athletic infrastructure.
28. Bardo Center for the Fine and Performing Arts: Offers students a platform for artistic expression and cultural enrichment.
29. Millennial Campus: WCU established a 344-acre Millennial Campus, fostering innovation in education and community engagement.

Online Programs and Student Success

WCU offers online programs and focuses on student success.

30. Online Degree Programs: Online degree programs contribute to enrollment growth and expand the university's reach.
31. Student Success Initiatives: WCU is committed to student success, innovation in education, and regional engagement.

Athletic Achievements

WCU has a proud history of athletic achievements.

32. Athletic Achievements: Western Carolina joined the Southern Conference and has a history of compliance with Title IX in women’s sports.
33. Football Highlight: In 1983, Coach Bob Waters led the football team to the NCAA Division I-AA national championship game.

Post-WWII Transformation

The post-WWII era marked significant growth for WCU.

34. Post-WWII Transformation: After World War II, WCU underwent a dramatic transformation, with enrollment reaching 610 by 1950.
35. Graduate Programs: In 1951, the first graduate degree was established, and in 1952, the first master's degree was awarded.

Early Milestones

WCU has achieved several important milestones throughout its history.

36. Baccalaureate Degrees: The first Baccalaureate degree was awarded in 1931.
37. Junior College Rank: In 1912, WCU was ranked as a junior college.
38. First College-Level Degree: In 1913, the first college-level (one-year) degree was awarded.
39. State Appropriation: In 1893, WCU received its first state appropriation, leading to the establishment of the Normal Department.
40. Cullowhee High School: In 1891, Cullowhee High School was established, laying the groundwork for WCU.

Evolution of the Institution

WCU has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting its commitment to education.

41. Semi-Private School: In 1889, WCU began as a semi-private school.
42. Cullowhee Normal and Industrial School: In 1905, the institution was renamed Cullowhee Normal and Industrial School.
43. Cullowhee State Normal School: By 1925, it became known as Cullowhee State Normal School.
44. Western Carolina Teachers College: In 1929, it was officially named Western Carolina Teachers College.

Curriculum and Regional Impact

WCU has expanded its curriculum and made a significant impact on the region.

45. Curriculum Expansion: WCU has expanded its curriculum to include a variety of programs, including postgraduate studies.
46. Regional University Designation: In 1967, the North Carolina General Assembly designated WCU as a regional university.
47. University of North Carolina System: On July 1, 1972, WCU became a member of the University of North Carolina system.

Community Service and Faculty

WCU is recognized for its community service and distinguished faculty.

48. Community Service: In 2009, WCU was awarded the President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll with Distinction.
49. Distinguished Faculty: WCU boasts a faculty that includes national award-winning authors and internationally recognized experts.

Alumni Achievements

WCU alumni have made significant contributions to their fields.

50. Alumni Achievements: Western Carolina University alumni hold prominent positions in academia, industry, and public service.

Western Carolina University: A Hub of Opportunity

Western Carolina University (WCU) stands out as a dynamic institution with a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence. Located in the scenic mountains of North Carolina, WCU offers a diverse range of programs and a supportive campus environment. With over 115 undergraduate majors and more than 40 graduate programs, students have ample opportunities to pursue their passions. The university's dedication to community engagement and research ensures students gain practical experience and make meaningful contributions. Affordable tuition through the NC Promise Tuition Plan makes higher education accessible. WCU's vibrant campus life, including numerous residence halls and dining options, enhances the student experience. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a member of the University of North Carolina system, WCU continues to evolve, providing students with the tools they need for lifelong success.