Western Carolina University (WCU) in Cullowhee: Overview, Rankings, Tuition Fee & Programs

Q: How much does it cost to attend Western Carolina University?

The annual tuition at Western Carolina University (WCU) is $4,532 for in-state students and $8,532 for out-of-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $20,319 for in-state students and $24,319 for out-of-state students.

Q: What academic programs and degree levels does Western Carolina University offer?

Western Carolina University (WCU) offers 121 academic programs across 24 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Bachelor's, Postbac Cert., Master's, Post-Master's, Doctorate (Research), Doctorate (Professional), Other Award. Most popular program areas include: Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy (22 programs), Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice (17 programs), Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship (15 programs), Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance (9 programs), Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support (7 programs).

Q: What is the acceptance rate for Western Carolina University?

Western Carolina University (WCU) has an 86.7% acceptance rate and a 13.3% yield rate, making it moderately selective. The university receives 18,183 applications annually, admits 15,758 students, and enrolls 2,103 students.

Q: What is the average salary for Western Carolina University graduates?

Western Carolina University (WCU) graduates earn a median salary of $43,085 after 6 years and $49,458 after 10 years. The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $35,205 (25th percentile) to $67,362 (75th percentile).

Table of Contents

About Western Carolina University
Key Institutional Details
Academic Programs
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Financial Aid & Student Support
Student Success Metrics
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Related Universities

About Western Carolina University

Tucked into a mountain valley, Western Carolina University pairs big-sky scenery with a practical, get-your-hands-dirty education. The university is known for strengths in health and human services, teacher preparation, business, engineering and technology, the arts, and the natural sciences. Classes lean into real projects, with labs, studios, and maker-style spaces that turn ideas into work worth showing.

Life on campus tilts outdoors: hiking before dinner, music on the lawn, intramurals that actually feel competitive. Student services are easy to find, from advising and tutoring to wellness and career coaching. And there is a strong service-minded streak, reflected in partnerships across Western North Carolina. The culture feels friendly and unpretentious, with purple-and-gold pride, a high-energy marching band, and traditions like a mountain heritage festival. Career prep runs through it all, with internships and alumni ties across the region and a clear path from classroom to first job.

Key Institutional Details

Contact & Profile

Location: Highway 107, Cullowhee, North Carolina, 28723, USA

Phone: +1 (828) 227-7100

Website: wcu.edu

Unit ID: 200004

Academic & Institutional

Control: Public institution (funded by state or local government)

Accreditation: SACSCOC

Length of Study: Programs under 2 years (e.g. certificate or diploma)

Calendar System: Semester system (two main terms per year)

Award Levels: Bachelor's, Postbac Cert., Master's, Post-Master's, Doctorate (Research), Doctorate (Professional), Other Award

Carnegie Classification: Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Doctoral - R3 (Moderate Research)

Campus Setting: Located in a distant town (10-35 miles from urbanized area)

Tuition: In-state: $4,532 (Tuition $1,000 + Fee $3,532) · Out-of-state: $8,532 (Tuition $5,000 + Fee $3,532)

Student Profile:

Total Students: 11,628

Undergraduate: 9,867

Graduate/Other: 1,761

Male: 4,736 Female: 6,892

Applications:

Total Applicants: 18,183

Admitted: 15,758

Enrolled: 2,103

Acceptance: 86.7% Yield: 13.3%

Staff:

Total: 1,827 Full-time: 1,598 Part-time: 229

Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects

Explore degree programs offered at Western Carolina University (WCU) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in North Carolina. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.

How to use this guide:

Click on any academic field that interests you to expand and view available degree programs. Each program shows potential career paths, median salaries in North Carolina vs national averages, and job prospects for graduates. Perfect for answering "What can I do with my degree?" and salary expectations.

Business (15) Most Graduates (22.6%)

Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship

52.0201 Business Administration and Management, General. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

A program that generally prepares individuals to plan, organize, direct, and control the functions and processes of a firm or organization. Includes instruction in management theory, human resources management and behavior, accounting and other quantitative methods, purchasing and logistics, organization and production, marketing, and business decision-making.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-1011	Chief Executives	$262,930	$245,590	-$17,340 (-6.6%)
11-1021	General and Operations Managers	$133,120	$95,470	-$37,650 (-28.3%)
11-2022	Sales Managers	$160,930	$122,190	-$38,740 (-24.1%)
11-3012	Administrative Services Managers	$126,030	$95,330	-$30,700 (-24.4%)
11-3013	Facilities Managers	$114,520	$100,820	-$13,700 (-12%)
11-3051	Industrial Production Managers	$129,180	$119,210	-$9,970 (-7.7%)
11-3071	Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers	$116,010	$96,430	-$19,580 (-16.9%)
11-3111	Compensation and Benefits Managers	$156,230	$125,270	-$30,960 (-19.8%)
11-3121	Human Resources Managers	$160,480	$122,810	-$37,670 (-23.5%)
11-3131	Training and Development Managers	$140,590	$107,730	-$32,860 (-23.4%)
11-9021	Construction Managers	$119,660	$110,400	-$9,260 (-7.7%)
11-9072	Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling	$87,060	$77,210	-$9,850 (-11.3%)
11-9151	Social and Community Service Managers	$86,100	$74,450	-$11,650 (-13.5%)
11-9179	Personal Service Managers, All Other	$70,620	$63,190	-$7,430 (-10.5%)
11-9199	Managers, All Other	$149,890	$103,500	-$46,390 (-30.9%)
13-1051	Cost Estimators	$83,160	$68,490	-$14,670 (-17.6%)
13-1071	Human Resources Specialists	$79,730	$69,440	-$10,290 (-12.9%)
13-1081	Logisticians	$87,600	$71,950	-$15,650 (-17.9%)
13-1082	Project Management Specialists	$108,100	$85,450	-$22,650 (-21%)
13-1111	Management Analysts	$114,710	$89,890	-$24,820 (-21.6%)
13-1141	Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists	$82,920	$68,530	-$14,390 (-17.4%)
13-1199	Business Operations Specialists, All Other	$92,380	$66,040	-$26,340 (-28.5%)
25-1011	Business Teachers, Postsecondary	$113,840	$99,870	-$13,970 (-12.3%)

52.0299 Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. (BSc, PostBacCert)

Any instructional program in business and administration not listed above.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
99-9999	NO MATCH	N/A	N/A	N/A

52.0301 Accounting. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

A program that prepares individuals to practice the profession of accounting and to perform related business functions. Includes instruction in accounting principles and theory, financial accounting, managerial accounting, cost accounting, budget control, tax accounting, legal aspects of accounting, auditing, reporting procedures, statement analysis, planning and consulting, business information systems, accounting research methods, professional standards and ethics, and applications to specific for-profit, public, and non-profit organizations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
13-2011	Accountants and Auditors	$93,520	$79,020	-$14,500 (-15.5%)
13-2022	Appraisers of Personal and Business Property	N/A	N/A	N/A
13-2031	Budget Analysts	$93,920	$76,080	-$17,840 (-19%)
13-2041	Credit Analysts	$98,040	$126,350	+$28,310 (+28.9%)
13-2054	Financial Risk Specialists	$119,930	$90,630	-$29,300 (-24.4%)
13-2061	Financial Examiners	$103,650	$95,210	-$8,440 (-8.1%)
13-2081	Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents	$67,570	$57,110	-$10,460 (-15.5%)
13-2082	Tax Preparers	$58,860	$57,490	-$1,370 (-2.3%)
25-1011	Business Teachers, Postsecondary	$113,840	$99,870	-$13,970 (-12.3%)

52.0701 Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies. (Cert2y+)

A program that generally prepares individuals to perform development, marketing and management functions associated with owning and operating a business.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-1011	Chief Executives	$262,930	$245,590	-$17,340 (-6.6%)
11-1021	General and Operations Managers	$133,120	$95,470	-$37,650 (-28.3%)
11-9199	Managers, All Other	$149,890	$103,500	-$46,390 (-30.9%)
25-1011	Business Teachers, Postsecondary	$113,840	$99,870	-$13,970 (-12.3%)

52.0801 Finance, General. (Cert2y+, AltPostMSc)

A program that generally prepares individuals to plan, manage, and analyze the financial and monetary aspects and performance of business enterprises, banking institutions, or other organizations. Includes instruction in principles of accounting, financial instruments, capital planning, funds acquisition, asset and debt management, budgeting, financial analysis, and investments and portfolio management.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-1011	Chief Executives	$262,930	$245,590	-$17,340 (-6.6%)
11-1021	General and Operations Managers	$133,120	$95,470	-$37,650 (-28.3%)
11-3031	Financial Managers	$180,470	$131,600	-$48,870 (-27.1%)
13-1141	Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists	$82,920	$68,530	-$14,390 (-17.4%)
13-2022	Appraisers of Personal and Business Property	N/A	N/A	N/A
13-2031	Budget Analysts	$93,920	$76,080	-$17,840 (-19%)
13-2041	Credit Analysts	$98,040	$126,350	+$28,310 (+28.9%)
13-2051	Financial and Investment Analysts	$116,490	$89,340	-$27,150 (-23.3%)
13-2052	Personal Financial Advisors	$160,210	N/A	N/A
13-2054	Financial Risk Specialists	$119,930	$90,630	-$29,300 (-24.4%)
13-2072	Loan Officers	$86,020	$70,470	-$15,550 (-18.1%)
13-2099	Financial Specialists, All Other	$93,890	$75,700	-$18,190 (-19.4%)
25-1011	Business Teachers, Postsecondary	$113,840	$99,870	-$13,970 (-12.3%)

52.0901 Hospitality Administration/Management, General. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to serve as general managers and directors of hospitality operations on a system-wide basis, including both travel arrangements and promotion and the provision of traveler facilities. Includes instruction in principles of operations in the travel and tourism, hotel and lodging facilities, food services, and recreation facilities industries; hospitality marketing strategies; hospitality planning; management and coordination of franchise and unit operations; business management; accounting and financial management; hospitality transportation and logistics; and hospitality industry policies and regulations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9051	Food Service Managers	$72,370	$74,270	+$1,900 (+2.6%)
11-9072	Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling	$87,060	$77,210	-$9,850 (-11.3%)
11-9081	Lodging Managers	$77,460	$52,560	-$24,900 (-32.1%)
11-9179	Personal Service Managers, All Other	$70,620	$63,190	-$7,430 (-10.5%)

52.1001 Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. (PostBacCert)

A program that generally prepares individuals to manage the development of human capital in organizations, and to provide related services to individuals and groups. Includes instruction in personnel and organization policy, human resource dynamics and flows, labor relations, sex roles, civil rights, human resources law and regulations, motivation and compensation systems, work systems, career management, employee testing and assessment, recruitment and selection, managing employee and job training programs, and the management of human resources programs and operations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-3111	Compensation and Benefits Managers	$156,230	$125,270	-$30,960 (-19.8%)
11-3121	Human Resources Managers	$160,480	$122,810	-$37,670 (-23.5%)
11-3131	Training and Development Managers	$140,590	$107,730	-$32,860 (-23.4%)
13-1041	Compliance Officers	$84,980	$63,080	-$21,900 (-25.8%)
13-1071	Human Resources Specialists	$79,730	$69,440	-$10,290 (-12.9%)
13-1075	Labor Relations Specialists	$97,130	$78,910	-$18,220 (-18.8%)
13-1141	Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists	$82,920	$68,530	-$14,390 (-17.4%)
13-1151	Training and Development Specialists	$73,760	$53,860	-$19,900 (-27%)
25-1011	Business Teachers, Postsecondary	$113,840	$99,870	-$13,970 (-12.3%)
43-4161	Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping	$50,950	$44,360	-$6,590 (-12.9%)

52.1201 Management Information Systems, General. (Cert2y+)

A program that generally prepares individuals to provide and manage data systems and related facilities for processing and retrieving internal business information; select systems and train personnel; and respond to external data requests. Includes instruction in cost and accounting information systems, management control systems, personnel information systems, data storage and security, business systems networking, report preparation, computer facilities and equipment operation and maintenance, operator supervision and training, and management information systems policy and planning.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-3021	Computer and Information Systems Managers	$187,990	$165,000	-$22,990 (-12.2%)
15-1243	Database Architects	$142,620	$85,330	-$57,290 (-40.2%)
15-1251	Computer Programmers	$103,640	$86,100	-$17,540 (-16.9%)
25-1021	Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary	$105,830	$82,200	-$23,630 (-22.3%)

52.1401 Marketing/Marketing Management, General. (Cert2y+)

A program that generally prepares individuals to undertake and manage the process of developing consumer audiences and moving products from producers to consumers. Includes instruction in buyer behavior and dynamics, principle of marketing research, demand analysis, cost-volume and profit relationships, pricing theory, marketing campaign and strategic planning, market segments, advertising methods, sales operations and management, consumer relations, retailing, and applications to specific products and markets.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-2011	Advertising and Promotions Managers	$149,270	$133,380	-$15,890 (-10.6%)
11-2021	Marketing Managers	$171,520	$138,590	-$32,930 (-19.2%)
11-2022	Sales Managers	$160,930	$122,190	-$38,740 (-24.1%)
11-2033	Fundraising Managers	$137,290	$118,100	-$19,190 (-14%)
13-1131	Fundraisers	$73,130	$64,240	-$8,890 (-12.2%)
13-1161	Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists	$86,480	$62,940	-$23,540 (-27.2%)
25-1011	Business Teachers, Postsecondary	$113,840	$99,870	-$13,970 (-12.3%)

52.1499 Marketing, Other. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

Any instructional program in general marketing and marketing research not listed above.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-2021	Marketing Managers	$171,520	$138,590	-$32,930 (-19.2%)
13-1161	Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists	$86,480	$62,940	-$23,540 (-27.2%)
25-1011	Business Teachers, Postsecondary	$113,840	$99,870	-$13,970 (-12.3%)

Health (17) Most Graduates (20.6%)

Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice

51.0000 HEALTH PROFESSIONS AND RELATED PROGRAMS. (Cert2y+)

Instructional programs that prepare individuals to practice as licensed professionals and assistants in the health care professions and related clinical sciences and administrative and support services.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
99-9999	NO MATCH	N/A	N/A	N/A

51.0201 Communication Sciences and Disorders, General. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

A program that focuses on the application of biomedical, psychological, and physical principles to the study of the scientific bases, development, and treatment of speech, language, hearing, and cognitive communication problems caused by disease, injury, or disability. Includes instruction in language science, hearing science, speech and voice science, biology of communication, behavioral linguistics, psychology, and applications to the development of diagnostic and rehabilitative strategies and technologies.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1071	Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary	$137,900	$81,530	-$56,370 (-40.9%)
29-1127	Speech-Language Pathologists	$95,840	$86,780	-$9,060 (-9.5%)
29-1181	Audiologists	$95,320	$90,070	-$5,250 (-5.5%)

51.0701 Health/Health Care Administration/Management. (PostBacCert)

A program that prepares individuals to develop, plan, and manage health care operations and services within health care facilities and across health care systems. Includes instruction in planning, business management, financial management, public relations, human resources management, health care systems operation and management, health care resource allocation and policy making, health law and regulations, and applications to specific types of health care services.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9111	Medical and Health Services Managers	$137,730	$111,900	-$25,830 (-18.8%)

51.0904 Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals, under the remote supervision of physicians, to recognize, assess, and manage medical emergencies in prehospital settings and to supervise Ambulance personnel. Includes instruction in basic, intermediate, and advanced EMT procedures; emergency surgical procedures; medical triage; rescue operations; crisis scene management and personnel supervision; equipment operation and maintenance; patient stabilization, monitoring, and care; drug administration; identification and preliminary diagnosis of diseases and injuries; communication and computer operations; basic anatomy, physiology, pathology, and toxicology; and professional standards and regulations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1071	Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary	$137,900	$81,530	-$56,370 (-40.9%)
29-2042	Emergency Medical Technicians	$44,790	$41,670	-$3,120 (-7%)
29-2043	Paramedics	$60,610	$46,840	-$13,770 (-22.7%)

51.0913 Athletic Training/Trainer. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

A program that prepares individuals to work in consultation with, and under the supervision of physicians to prevent and treat sports injuries and associated conditions. Includes instruction in the identification, evaluation, and treatment of athletic injuries and illnesses; first aid and emergency care; therapeutic exercise; anatomy and physiology; exercise physiology; kinesiology and biomechanics; nutrition; sports psychology; personal and community health; knowledge of various sports and their biomechanical and physiological demands; and applicable professional standards and regulations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1071	Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary	$137,900	$81,530	-$56,370 (-40.9%)
29-9091	Athletic Trainers	$63,960	$49,710	-$14,250 (-22.3%)

51.1501 Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling. (BSc)

A program that prepares individuals to help prevent substance abuse, counsel individuals and families with drug and alcohol problems, and perform intervention and therapeutic services for persons suffering from addiction. Includes instruction in individual and group counseling skills, psychology of addiction, sociology, crisis intervention, substance abuse identification methodologies, substance abuse treatment modalities, substance abuse prevention and treatment resources, pharmacology and behavioral aspects of abused substances, treatment evaluation, patient observation and education, group dynamics, professional standards and ethics, and applicable law and regulations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
21-1011	Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors	N/A	N/A	N/A
21-1014	Mental Health Counselors	N/A	N/A	N/A
25-1071	Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary	$137,900	$81,530	-$56,370 (-40.9%)

51.2202 Environmental Health. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on the application of environmental sciences, public health, the biomedical sciences, and environmental toxicology to the study of environmental factors affecting human health, safety, and related ecological issues, and prepares individuals to function as professional environmental health specialists. Includes instruction in epidemiology, biostatistics, toxicology, public policy analysis, public management, risk assessment, communications, environmental law, occupational health and safety emergency response, and applications such as air quality, food protection, radiation protection, solid and hazardous waste management, water quality, soil quality, noise abatement, housing quality, and environmental control of recreational areas.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
19-1041	Epidemiologists	$94,160	$104,480	+$10,320 (+11%)
19-1042	Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists	$112,690	N/A	N/A
19-2041	Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health	$88,640	$65,530	-$23,110 (-26.1%)
19-5011	Occupational Health and Safety Specialists	$88,660	$77,600	-$11,060 (-12.5%)
19-5012	Occupational Health and Safety Technicians	$63,800	$52,600	-$11,200 (-17.6%)
25-1071	Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary	$137,900	$81,530	-$56,370 (-40.9%)

51.2308 Physical Therapy/Therapist. (Spec)

A program that prepares individuals to evaluate, examine, diagnose, and alleviate physical functional impairments and limitations caused by injury or disease through the design and implementation of therapeutic interventions to promote fitness and health. Includes instruction in anatomy, behavioral sciences, biology, biomechanics, biophysical agents, care plan development and documentation, cellular histology, clinical evaluation and measurement, clinical reasoning, communication, exercise physiology, kinesiology, neuroscience, pharmacology, pathology, physiology, professional standards and ethics, rehabilitation psychology, and therapeutic exercise.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1071	Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary	$137,900	$81,530	-$56,370 (-40.9%)
29-1123	Physical Therapists	$102,400	$90,760	-$11,640 (-11.4%)

51.2309 Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to plan, organize, and direct recreational activities designed to promote health and well-being for patients who are physically, mentally, or emotionally disabled. Includes instruction in the foundations of therapeutic recreation, leisure education and counseling, program planning, therapeutic recreational modalities, basic anatomy and physiology, psychology, medical terminology, human growth and development, patient observation and evaluation, special needs populations, and professional standards and ethics.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1071	Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary	$137,900	$81,530	-$56,370 (-40.9%)
29-1125	Recreational Therapists	$65,350	$50,820	-$14,530 (-22.2%)

51.3101 Dietetics/Dietitian. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to integrate and apply the principles of the food and nutrition sciences, human behavior, and the biomedical sciences to design and manage effective nutrition programs in a variety of settings. Includes instruction in human nutrition; nutrient metabolism; the role of foods and nutrition in health promotion and disease prevention; planning and directing food service activities; diet and nutrition analysis and planning; supervision of food storage and preparation; client education; and professional standards and regulations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
29-1031	Dietitians and Nutritionists	$74,770	$56,200	-$18,570 (-24.8%)
29-2051	Dietetic Technicians	$39,560	$28,060	-$11,500 (-29.1%)

51.3801 Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert, MSc)

A program that generally prepares individuals in the knowledge, techniques and procedures for promoting health, providing care for sick, disabled, infirmed, or other individuals or groups. Includes instruction in the administration of medication and treatments, assisting a physician during treatments and examinations, Referring patients to physicians and other health care specialists, and planning education for health maintenance.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1072	Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary	$87,090	$76,170	-$10,920 (-12.5%)
29-1141	Registered Nurses	$98,430	$79,860	-$18,570 (-18.9%)

51.3803 Adult Health Nurse/Nursing. (BSc)

A program that prepares registered nurses to provide general care for adult patients. Includes instruction in adult primary care, adult pathophysiology, clinical management of medication and treatments, patient assessment and education, patient referral, and planning adult health maintenance programs.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1072	Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary	$87,090	$76,170	-$10,920 (-12.5%)
29-1141	Registered Nurses	$98,430	$79,860	-$18,570 (-18.9%)
29-1171	Nurse Practitioners	$132,000	$119,090	-$12,910 (-9.8%)

51.3818 Nursing Practice. (Spec)

A practice-focused program that prepares registered nurses for increasingly complex evidence-based nursing practice, including translating research into practice, evaluating evidence, applying research in decision-making, and implementing viable clinical innovations to change practice. Includes instruction in healthcare delivery systems, health economics and finance, health policy, research methods, translating evidence into practice, concepts in population health, and nursing leadership.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9111	Medical and Health Services Managers	$137,730	$111,900	-$25,830 (-18.8%)
25-1072	Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary	$87,090	$76,170	-$10,920 (-12.5%)
29-1141	Registered Nurses	$98,430	$79,860	-$18,570 (-18.9%)
29-1171	Nurse Practitioners	$132,000	$119,090	-$12,910 (-9.8%)

Education (22) Most Graduates (10.4%)

Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy

13.0101 Education, General. (PostBacCert)

A program that focuses on the general theory and practice of learning and teaching, the basic principles of educational psychology, the art of teaching, the planning and administration of educational activities, school safety and health issues, and the social foundations of education.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1081	Education Teachers, Postsecondary	$78,500	$73,920	-$4,580 (-5.8%)
25-9042	Teaching Assistants, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary School, Except Special Education	N/A	N/A	N/A
25-9043	Teaching Assistants, Special Education	N/A	N/A	N/A

13.0401 Educational Leadership and Administration, General. (PostBacCert, MSc, FPD)

A program that focuses on the general principles and techniques of administering a wide variety of schools and other educational organizations and facilities, supervising educational personnel at the school or staff level, and that may prepare individuals as general administrators and supervisors.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9031	Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare	$62,640	$50,330	-$12,310 (-19.7%)
11-9032	Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary	$113,360	$80,420	-$32,940 (-29.1%)
11-9033	Education Administrators, Postsecondary	$124,450	$101,700	-$22,750 (-18.3%)
11-9039	Education Administrators, All Other	$99,460	$79,440	-$20,020 (-20.1%)

13.0404 Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision. (PostBacCert)

A program that prepares individuals to supervise instructional and support personnel at the school building, facility or staff level. Includes instruction in the principles of staffing and organization, the supervision of learning activities, personnel relations, administrative duties related to departmental or unit management, and specific applications to various educational settings and curricula.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9031	Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare	$62,640	$50,330	-$12,310 (-19.7%)
11-9032	Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary	$113,360	$80,420	-$32,940 (-29.1%)
11-9033	Education Administrators, Postsecondary	$124,450	$101,700	-$22,750 (-18.3%)
11-9039	Education Administrators, All Other	$99,460	$79,440	-$20,020 (-20.1%)

13.1001 Special Education and Teaching, General. (Cert2y+, BSc)

A general program that focuses on the design and provision of teaching and other educational services to children or adults with special learning needs or disabilities, and that may prepare individuals to function as special education teachers in a collaborative or team environment. Includes instruction in diagnosing learning disabilities, developing individual education plans, teaching and supervising special education students, special education counseling, and applicable laws and policies.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-2051	Special Education Teachers, Preschool	$72,610	$50,920	-$21,690 (-29.9%)
25-2055	Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten	N/A	N/A	N/A
25-2056	Special Education Teachers, Elementary School	N/A	N/A	N/A
25-2057	Special Education Teachers, Middle School	$72,310	$46,710	-$25,600 (-35.4%)
25-2058	Special Education Teachers, Secondary School	$74,610	$48,540	-$26,070 (-34.9%)
25-2059	Special Education Teachers, All Other	$74,180	$70,310	-$3,870 (-5.2%)
25-9043	Teaching Assistants, Special Education	N/A	N/A	N/A

13.1004 Education/Teaching of the Gifted and Talented. (BSc, AltPostMSc)

A program that focuses on the design of educational services for children or adults exhibiting exceptional intellectual, psychomotor or artistic talent or potential, or who exhibit exceptional maturity or social leadership talents, and that may prepare individuals to teach such students. Includes instruction in identifying gifted and talented students, developing individual education plans, teaching and supervising gifted and talented students, counseling, and applicable laws and policies.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
99-9999	NO MATCH	N/A	N/A	N/A

13.1101 Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. (PostBacCert)

A program that prepares individuals to apply the theory and principles of guidance and counseling to the provision of support for the personal, social, educational, and vocational development of students, and the organizing of guidance services within elementary, middle and secondary educational institutions. Includes instruction in legal and professional requirements, therapeutic counselor intervention, vocational counseling, and related sociological and psychological foundations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
21-1012	Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors	$71,520	$52,280	-$19,240 (-26.9%)

13.1102 College Student Counseling and Personnel Services. (PostBacCert)

A program that focuses on the organization and provision of counseling, referral, assistance and administrative services to students in postsecondary educational institutions and adult education facilities, and that may prepare individuals to function as professional counselors in such settings. Includes instruction in applicable laws and policies, residential counseling and services, vocational counseling and placement services, remedial skills counseling, and therapeutic counselor intervention.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
21-1012	Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors	$71,520	$52,280	-$19,240 (-26.9%)
39-9041	Residential Advisors	$41,590	$37,420	-$4,170 (-10%)

13.1202 Elementary Education and Teaching. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to teach students in the elementary grades, which may include kindergarten through grade eight, depending on the school system or state regulations. Includes preparation to teach all elementary education subject matter.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1081	Education Teachers, Postsecondary	$78,500	$73,920	-$4,580 (-5.8%)
25-2021	Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education	$69,790	$50,640	-$19,150 (-27.4%)

13.1203 Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to teach students in the middle, intermediate or junior high grades, which may include grades four through nine by regulation.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1081	Education Teachers, Postsecondary	$78,500	$73,920	-$4,580 (-5.8%)
25-2022	Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$70,040	$50,520	-$19,520 (-27.9%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)

13.1209 Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to teach students in formal settings prior to beginning regular elementary school, usually ranging in age from three to six years (or grade one), depending on the school system or state regulations. Includes preparation to teach all relevant subject matter.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1081	Education Teachers, Postsecondary	$78,500	$73,920	-$4,580 (-5.8%)
25-2011	Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education	$41,450	$31,810	-$9,640 (-23.3%)
25-2012	Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education	$67,020	$50,590	-$16,430 (-24.5%)

13.1299 Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other. (PostBacCert)

Any instructional program in teacher education and professional development not listed above.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
99-9999	NO MATCH	N/A	N/A	N/A

13.1302 Art Teacher Education. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to teach art and art appreciation programs at various educational levels.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1081	Education Teachers, Postsecondary	$78,500	$73,920	-$4,580 (-5.8%)
25-1121	Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary	$102,240	$70,620	-$31,620 (-30.9%)
25-2022	Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$70,040	$50,520	-$19,520 (-27.9%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)

13.1305 English/Language Arts Teacher Education. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to teach English grammar, composition and literature programs at various educational levels.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1081	Education Teachers, Postsecondary	$78,500	$73,920	-$4,580 (-5.8%)
25-1123	English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary	$90,400	$63,670	-$26,730 (-29.6%)
25-2022	Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$70,040	$50,520	-$19,520 (-27.9%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)

13.1311 Mathematics Teacher Education. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to teach mathematics programs at various educational levels.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1022	Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary	$92,880	$69,980	-$22,900 (-24.7%)
25-1081	Education Teachers, Postsecondary	$78,500	$73,920	-$4,580 (-5.8%)
25-2022	Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$70,040	$50,520	-$19,520 (-27.9%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)

13.1312 Music Teacher Education. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to teach music and music appreciation programs at various educational levels.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1081	Education Teachers, Postsecondary	$78,500	$73,920	-$4,580 (-5.8%)
25-1121	Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary	$102,240	$70,620	-$31,620 (-30.9%)
25-2022	Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$70,040	$50,520	-$19,520 (-27.9%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)

13.1314 Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to teach physical education programs and/or to coach sports at various educational levels.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1081	Education Teachers, Postsecondary	$78,500	$73,920	-$4,580 (-5.8%)
25-1193	Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary	$87,980	$74,260	-$13,720 (-15.6%)
25-2022	Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$70,040	$50,520	-$19,520 (-27.9%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)
27-2022	Coaches and Scouts	$58,910	$60,330	+$1,420 (+2.4%)
39-9031	Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors	$51,360	$41,450	-$9,910 (-19.3%)

13.1316 Science Teacher Education/General Science Teacher Education. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to teach general science programs, or a combination of the biological and physical science subject matter areas, at various educational levels.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1041	Agricultural Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary	$97,790	$97,660	-$130 (-0.1%)
25-1042	Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary	$101,340	$69,310	-$32,030 (-31.6%)
25-1043	Forestry and Conservation Science Teachers, Postsecondary	$103,780	N/A	N/A
25-1051	Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary	$112,950	$96,810	-$16,140 (-14.3%)
25-1052	Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary	$103,030	$70,760	-$32,270 (-31.3%)
25-1053	Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary	$100,360	$69,200	-$31,160 (-31%)
25-1054	Physics Teachers, Postsecondary	$105,460	$78,750	-$26,710 (-25.3%)
25-1081	Education Teachers, Postsecondary	$78,500	$73,920	-$4,580 (-5.8%)
25-2022	Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$70,040	$50,520	-$19,520 (-27.9%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)

13.1318 Social Studies Teacher Education. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to teach general social studies programs at various educational levels.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-2022	Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$70,040	$50,520	-$19,520 (-27.9%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)

Public Services (4)

Public Administration, Social Work and Community Services

44.0401 Public Administration. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

A program that prepares individuals to serve as managers in the executive arm of local, state, and federal government and that focuses on the systematic study of executive organization and management. Includes instruction in the roles, development, and principles of public administration; the management of public policy; executive-legislative relations; public budgetary processes and financial management; administrative law; public personnel management; professional ethics; and research methods.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-1011	Chief Executives	$262,930	$245,590	-$17,340 (-6.6%)
11-1021	General and Operations Managers	$133,120	$95,470	-$37,650 (-28.3%)
11-1031	Legislators	$67,390	$22,120	-$45,270 (-67.2%)
11-3071	Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers	$116,010	$96,430	-$19,580 (-16.9%)
11-9131	Postmasters and Mail Superintendents	$93,760	$91,530	-$2,230 (-2.4%)
11-9151	Social and Community Service Managers	$86,100	$74,450	-$11,650 (-13.5%)
11-9199	Managers, All Other	$149,890	$103,500	-$46,390 (-30.9%)

44.0701 Social Work. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

A program that prepares individuals for the professional practice of social welfare administration and counseling, and that focus on the study of organized means of providing basic support services for vulnerable individuals and groups. Includes instruction in social welfare policy; case work planning; social counseling and intervention strategies; administrative procedures and regulations; and specific applications in areas such as child welfare and family services, probation, employment services, and disability counseling.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9151	Social and Community Service Managers	$86,100	$74,450	-$11,650 (-13.5%)
21-1013	Marriage and Family Therapists	$72,720	$46,530	-$26,190 (-36%)
21-1019	Counselors, All Other	$58,070	$43,840	-$14,230 (-24.5%)
21-1021	Child, Family, and School Social Workers	$62,920	$54,850	-$8,070 (-12.8%)
21-1022	Healthcare Social Workers	$72,030	$55,880	-$16,150 (-22.4%)
21-1023	Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers	$68,290	$50,220	-$18,070 (-26.5%)
21-1029	Social Workers, All Other	$74,680	$51,390	-$23,290 (-31.2%)
21-1092	Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists	$71,530	$60,070	-$11,460 (-16%)
25-1113	Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary	$81,880	$75,740	-$6,140 (-7.5%)

Psychology (4)

Psychological Sciences, Mental Health and Behavioral Studies

42.0101 Psychology, General. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

A general program that focuses on the scientific study of individual and collective behavior, the physical and environmental bases of behavior, and the analysis and treatment of behavior problems and disorders. Includes instruction in the principles of the various subfields of psychology, research methods, and psychological assessment and testing methods.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9199	Managers, All Other	$149,890	$103,500	-$46,390 (-30.9%)
19-3032	Industrial-Organizational Psychologists	$134,400	N/A	N/A
19-3033	Clinical and Counseling Psychologists	$106,850	$80,980	-$25,870 (-24.2%)
19-3039	Psychologists, All Other	$111,340	$143,900	+$32,560 (+29.2%)
19-4061	Social Science Research Assistants	$63,560	$49,390	-$14,170 (-22.3%)
25-1066	Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary	$93,530	$74,660	-$18,870 (-20.2%)

42.2801 Clinical Psychology. (Spec)

A program that prepares individuals for the independent professional practice of clinical psychology, involving the analysis, diagnosis, and clinical treatment of psychological disorders and behavioral pathologies. Includes instruction in clinical assessment and diagnosis, personality appraisal, psychopathology, clinical psychopharmacology, behavior modification, therapeutic intervention skills, patient interviewing, personalized and group therapy, child and adolescent therapy, cognitive and behavioral therapy, supervised clinical practice, ethical standards, and applicable regulations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9199	Managers, All Other	$149,890	$103,500	-$46,390 (-30.9%)
19-3033	Clinical and Counseling Psychologists	$106,850	$80,980	-$25,870 (-24.2%)
25-1066	Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary	$93,530	$74,660	-$18,870 (-20.2%)

42.2805 School Psychology. (PostBacCert)

A program that prepares individuals to apply clinical and counseling psychology principles to the diagnosis and treatment of student behavioral problems. Includes instruction in child and/or adolescent development; learning theory; testing, observation and other procedures for assessing educational, personality, intelligence and motor skill development; therapeutic intervention strategies for students and families; identification and classification of disabilities and disorders affecting learning; school psychological services planning; supervised counseling practice; ethical standards; and applicable regulations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9199	Managers, All Other	$149,890	$103,500	-$46,390 (-30.9%)
19-3034	School Psychologists	$93,610	$62,210	-$31,400 (-33.5%)
21-1012	Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors	$71,520	$52,280	-$19,240 (-26.9%)
25-1066	Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary	$93,530	$74,660	-$18,870 (-20.2%)

Security & Safety (1)

Emergency Management, Law Enforcement and Public Safety

43.0104 Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on the criminal justice system, its organizational components and processes, and its legal and public policy contexts. Includes instruction in criminal law and policy, police and correctional systems organization, the administration of justice and the judiciary, and public attitudes regarding criminal justice issues.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
19-4099	Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other	$64,640	N/A	N/A
25-1111	Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary	$84,820	$58,120	-$26,700 (-31.5%)
33-1011	First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers	$82,260	$58,460	-$23,800 (-28.9%)
33-1012	First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives	$110,990	$71,140	-$39,850 (-35.9%)

Arts (9)

Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance

50.0408 Interior Design. (Cert2y+)

A program in the applied visual arts that prepares individuals to apply artistic principles and techniques to the professional planning, designing, equipping, and furnishing of residential and commercial interior spaces. Includes instruction in computer applications, drafting, and graphic techniques; principles of interior lighting, acoustics, systems integration, and color coordination; furniture and furnishings; textiles and their finishing; the history of interior design and period styles; basic structural design; building codes and inspection regulations; and applications to office, hotel, factory, restaurant and housing design.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1031	Architecture Teachers, Postsecondary	$110,360	$98,260	-$12,100 (-11%)
27-1025	Interior Designers	$71,430	$52,040	-$19,390 (-27.1%)

50.0501 Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on the general study of dramatic works and their performance. Includes instruction in major works of dramatic literature, dramatic styles and types, and the principles of organizing and producing full live or filmed productions.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1121	Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary	$102,240	$70,620	-$31,620 (-30.9%)
27-2011	Actors	N/A	N/A	N/A
27-2012	Producers and Directors	$114,280	$70,550	-$43,730 (-38.3%)
27-2099	Entertainers and Performers, Sports and Related Workers, All Other	N/A	N/A	N/A

50.0701 Art/Art Studies, General. (Cert2y+)

A general program that focuses on the introductory study and appreciation of the visual arts. Includes instruction in art, photography, and other visual communications media.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1121	Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary	$102,240	$70,620	-$31,620 (-30.9%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)
27-1012	Craft Artists	$45,340	$42,880	-$2,460 (-5.4%)
27-1013	Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators	$76,450	$53,060	-$23,390 (-30.6%)
27-4021	Photographers	$55,650	$42,930	-$12,720 (-22.9%)

50.0702 Fine/Studio Arts, General. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

A program that prepares individuals to generally function as creative artists in the visual and plastic media. Includes instruction in the traditional fine arts media (drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, CAD/CAM) and/or modern media (ceramics, textiles, intermedia, photography, digital images), theory of art, color theory, composition and perspective, anatomy, the techniques and procedures for maintaining equipment and managing a studio, and art portfolio marketing.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1121	Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary	$102,240	$70,620	-$31,620 (-30.9%)
27-1013	Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators	$76,450	$53,060	-$23,390 (-30.6%)
27-1019	Artists and Related Workers, All Other	$79,490	$77,660	-$1,830 (-2.3%)

50.0901 Music, General. (Cert2y+)

A general program that focuses on the introductory study and appreciation of music and the performing arts. Includes instruction in music, dance, and other performing arts media.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)
27-2042	Musicians and Singers	N/A	N/A	N/A

50.0903 Music Performance, General. (Cert2y+)

A program that generally prepares individuals to master musical instruments and performing art as solo and/or ensemble performers. Includes instruction on one or more specific instruments from various instrumental groupings.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1121	Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary	$102,240	$70,620	-$31,620 (-30.9%)
27-2041	Music Directors and Composers	$84,230	$66,540	-$17,690 (-21%)
27-2042	Musicians and Singers	N/A	N/A	N/A

50.0913 Music Technology. (AltPostMSc)

A program that focuses on the creative aspects of the blending of music and technology; and that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to the composition, recording, synthesis, and performance of music; audio-visual production; scoring for film and multimedia; and software and multimedia development. Includes instruction in music theory, music history, composition, acoustics, recording technology, computer composition, electronic music synthesis, technology-based performance, 3D sound and spatial audio, and music business and law.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1121	Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary	$102,240	$70,620	-$31,620 (-30.9%)
27-2041	Music Directors and Composers	$84,230	$66,540	-$17,690 (-21%)
27-2091	Disc Jockeys, Except Radio	N/A	N/A	N/A
27-4014	Sound Engineering Technicians	$79,280	$59,300	-$19,980 (-25.2%)

50.1001 Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management, General. (AltPostMSc)

A program that prepares individuals to organize and manage various aspects of the visual arts, performing arts, and entertainment media industries. Includes instruction in business and financial management, marketing and fund-raising, labor relations for the arts, event promotion and management, product and artist management, and applicable law.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9199	Managers, All Other	$149,890	$103,500	-$46,390 (-30.9%)
13-1011	Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes	$165,600	N/A	N/A
25-1121	Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary	$102,240	$70,620	-$31,620 (-30.9%)

Eng. Technologies (7)

Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support

15.0000 ENGINEERING/ENGINEERING-RELATED TECHNOLOGIES/TECHNICIANS. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

Instructional programs that prepare individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineering and related projects or to prepare for engineering-related fields.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
17-3021	Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians	$86,330	$77,290	-$9,040 (-10.5%)
17-3022	Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians	$68,450	$62,660	-$5,790 (-8.5%)
17-3023	Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians	$78,580	$63,420	-$15,160 (-19.3%)
17-3024	Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians	$75,710	$65,560	-$10,150 (-13.4%)

15.0303 Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of electrical, electronics and communication engineers. Includes instruction in electrical circuitry, prototype development and testing, systems analysis and testing, systems maintenance, instrument calibration, and report preparation.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
17-3012	Electrical and Electronics Drafters	$77,960	$80,960	+$3,000 (+3.8%)
17-3021	Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians	$86,330	$77,290	-$9,040 (-10.5%)
17-3023	Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians	$78,580	$63,420	-$15,160 (-19.3%)
17-3024	Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians	$75,710	$65,560	-$10,150 (-13.4%)
17-3028	Calibration Technologists and Technicians	$71,080	$82,620	+$11,540 (+16.2%)
49-2095	Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay	$97,460	$88,960	-$8,500 (-8.7%)

15.0612 Industrial Technology/Technician. (PostBacCert)

A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of industrial engineers and managers. Includes instruction in optimization theory, human factors, organizational behavior, industrial processes, industrial planning procedures, computer applications, and report and presentation preparation.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
17-3026	Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians	$69,780	$62,110	-$7,670 (-11%)

15.0613 Manufacturing Engineering Technology/Technician. (AltPostMSc)

A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills to the identification and resolution of production problems in the manufacture of products. Includes instruction in machine operations, production line operations, engineering analysis, systems analysis, instrumentation, physical controls, automation, computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), manufacturing planning, quality control, and informational infrastructure.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
17-3026	Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians	$69,780	$62,110	-$7,670 (-11%)

15.1001 Construction Engineering Technology/Technician. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineers, engineering contractors and other professionals engaged in the construction of buildings and related structures. Includes instruction in basic structural engineering principles and construction techniques, building site inspection, site supervision, construction personnel supervision, plan and specification interpretation, supply logistics and procurement, applicable building codes, and report preparation.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9021	Construction Managers	$119,660	$110,400	-$9,260 (-7.7%)
13-1051	Cost Estimators	$83,160	$68,490	-$14,670 (-17.6%)
17-3022	Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians	$68,450	$62,660	-$5,790 (-8.5%)

Kinesiology (4)

Exercise Science, Sports Medicine and Physical Recreation

31.0301 Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to develop and manage park facilities and other indoor and outdoor recreation and leisure facilities. Includes instruction in supervising support personnel, health and safety standards, public relations, and basic business and marketing principles.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-1021	General and Operations Managers	$133,120	$95,470	-$37,650 (-28.3%)
11-3013	Facilities Managers	$114,520	$100,820	-$13,700 (-12%)
11-9072	Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling	$87,060	$77,210	-$9,850 (-11.3%)

31.0504 Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

A program that prepares individuals to apply business, coaching and physical education principles to the organization, administration and management of athletic programs and teams, fitness/rehabilitation facilities and health clubs, sport recreation services, and related services. Includes instruction in program planning and development; business and financial management principles; sales, marketing and recruitment; event promotion, scheduling and management; facilities management; public relations; legal aspects of sports; and applicable health and safety standards.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9072	Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling	$87,060	$77,210	-$9,850 (-11.3%)
25-1193	Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary	$87,980	$74,260	-$13,720 (-15.6%)
27-2022	Coaches and Scouts	$58,910	$60,330	+$1,420 (+2.4%)
39-9031	Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors	$51,360	$41,450	-$9,910 (-19.3%)

31.0601 Outdoor Education. (PostBacCert)

A program that prepares individuals to work as an educator, instructor or facilitator in parks, recreational facilities, camps and other outdoor settings. Includes instruction in leadership skills, wilderness survival skills, first aid, group processes, counseling techniques, environmental studies and instruction in recreational activities such as rock climbing, ropes courses, backpacking, kayaking and canoeing.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
39-1014	First-Line Supervisors of Entertainment and Recreation Workers, Except Gambling Services	$51,400	$47,990	-$3,410 (-6.6%)
39-9032	Recreation Workers	$37,170	$34,540	-$2,630 (-7.1%)

Social Sciences (4)

Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies

45.0201 Anthropology, General. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on the systematic study of human beings, their antecedents and related primates, and their cultural behavior and institutions, in comparative perspective. Includes instruction in biological/physical anthropology, primatology, human paleontology and prehistoric archeology, hominid evolution, anthropological linguistics, ethnography, ethnology, ethnohistory, socio-cultural anthropology, psychological anthropology, research methods, and applications to areas such as medicine, forensic pathology, museum studies, and international affairs.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9199	Managers, All Other	$149,890	$103,500	-$46,390 (-30.9%)
19-3091	Anthropologists and Archeologists	$71,070	$75,880	+$4,810 (+6.8%)
25-1061	Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary	$102,530	$66,680	-$35,850 (-35%)

45.0602 Applied Economics. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on the application of economic principles and analytical techniques to the study of particular industries, activities, or the exploitation of particular resources. Includes instruction in economic theory; microeconomic analysis and modeling of specific industries, commodities; the economic consequences of resource allocation decisions; regulatory and consumer factors; and the technical aspects of specific subjects as they relate to economic analysis.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9199	Managers, All Other	$149,890	$103,500	-$46,390 (-30.9%)
13-1161	Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists	$86,480	$62,940	-$23,540 (-27.2%)
19-3011	Economists	$130,910	$111,910	-$19,000 (-14.5%)
19-3022	Survey Researchers	$73,470	$78,270	+$4,800 (+6.5%)
19-4061	Social Science Research Assistants	$63,560	$49,390	-$14,170 (-22.3%)
25-1063	Economics Teachers, Postsecondary	$133,140	$111,400	-$21,740 (-16.3%)

45.1001 Political Science and Government, General. (Cert2y+)

A general program that focuses on the systematic study of political institutions and behavior. Includes instruction in political philosophy, political theory, comparative government and politics, political parties and interest groups, public opinion, political research methods, studies of the government and politics of specific countries, and studies of specific political institutions and processes.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9199	Managers, All Other	$149,890	$103,500	-$46,390 (-30.9%)
19-3094	Political Scientists	$137,600	N/A	N/A
19-4061	Social Science Research Assistants	$63,560	$49,390	-$14,170 (-22.3%)
25-1065	Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary	$105,160	$82,120	-$23,040 (-21.9%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)

45.1101 Sociology, General. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on the systematic study of human social institutions and social relationships. Includes instruction in social theory, sociological research methods, social organization and structure, social stratification and hierarchies, dynamics of social change, family structures, social deviance and control, and applications to the study of specific social groups, social institutions, and social problems.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9199	Managers, All Other	$149,890	$103,500	-$46,390 (-30.9%)
19-3041	Sociologists	$111,670	$107,520	-$4,150 (-3.7%)
19-4061	Social Science Research Assistants	$63,560	$49,390	-$14,170 (-22.3%)
25-1067	Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary	$97,270	$65,850	-$31,420 (-32.3%)

Physical Sciences (4)

Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences Research

40.0501 Chemistry, General. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

A general program that focuses on the scientific study of the composition and behavior of matter, including its micro- and macro-structure, the processes of chemical change, and the theoretical description and laboratory simulation of these phenomena.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9121	Natural Sciences Managers	$173,500	$132,640	-$40,860 (-23.6%)
19-2031	Chemists	$95,940	$72,750	-$23,190 (-24.2%)
19-4013	Food Science Technicians	$54,400	$50,150	-$4,250 (-7.8%)
19-4031	Chemical Technicians	$61,300	$53,500	-$7,800 (-12.7%)
19-4092	Forensic Science Technicians	$75,260	$44,600	-$30,660 (-40.7%)
25-1052	Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary	$103,030	$70,760	-$32,270 (-31.3%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)

40.0510 Forensic Chemistry. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on the application of chemical techniques and instrumentation to the analysis and evaluation of physical evidence to aid in criminal investigations. Includes instruction in analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry; biochemistry; forensic toxicology; instrumental analysis; crime scene processing; criminal investigation; forensic laboratory technology; and applicable law.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9121	Natural Sciences Managers	$173,500	$132,640	-$40,860 (-23.6%)
19-2031	Chemists	$95,940	$72,750	-$23,190 (-24.2%)
19-4092	Forensic Science Technicians	$75,260	$44,600	-$30,660 (-40.7%)
25-1052	Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary	$103,030	$70,760	-$32,270 (-31.3%)

40.0601 Geology/Earth Science, General. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on the scientific study of the earth; the forces acting upon it; and the behavior of the solids, liquids and gases comprising it. Includes instruction in historical geology, geomorphology, and sedimentology, the chemistry of rocks and soils, stratigraphy, mineralogy, petrology, geostatistics, volcanology, glaciology, geophysical principles, and applications to research and industrial problems.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9121	Natural Sciences Managers	$173,500	$132,640	-$40,860 (-23.6%)
19-2042	Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers	$111,310	$97,210	-$14,100 (-12.7%)
19-2043	Hydrologists	$98,130	N/A	N/A
19-4043	Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians	$58,220	$48,500	-$9,720 (-16.7%)
25-1051	Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary	$112,950	$96,810	-$16,140 (-14.3%)

Biological Sciences (2)

Life Sciences, Biotechnology and Biomedical Research

26.0101 Biology/Biological Sciences, General. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert)

A general program of biology at the introductory, basic level or a program in biology or the biological sciences that is undifferentiated as to title or content. Includes instruction in general biology and programs covering a variety of biological specializations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9121	Natural Sciences Managers	$173,500	$132,640	-$40,860 (-23.6%)
19-1029	Biological Scientists, All Other	$100,440	$75,570	-$24,870 (-24.8%)
19-1099	Life Scientists, All Other	$101,940	$126,070	+$24,130 (+23.7%)
19-4012	Agricultural Technicians	$49,680	$48,660	-$1,020 (-2.1%)
19-4013	Food Science Technicians	$54,400	$50,150	-$4,250 (-7.8%)
19-4021	Biological Technicians	$58,020	$53,940	-$4,080 (-7%)
19-4092	Forensic Science Technicians	$75,260	$44,600	-$30,660 (-40.7%)
25-1042	Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary	$101,340	$69,310	-$32,030 (-31.6%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)

Communication (2)

Media Communications, Journalism and Public Relations

09.0101 Speech Communication and Rhetoric. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on the scientific, humanistic, and critical study of human communication in a variety of formats, media, and contexts. Includes instruction in the theory and practice of interpersonal, group, organizational, professional, and intercultural communication; speaking and listening; verbal and nonverbal interaction; rhetorical theory and criticism; performance studies; argumentation and persuasion; technologically mediated communication; popular culture; and various contextual applications.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-2032	Public Relations Managers	$163,520	$122,560	-$40,960 (-25%)
25-1122	Communications Teachers, Postsecondary	$90,340	$69,870	-$20,470 (-22.7%)
27-3011	Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys	$80,110	$32,800	-$47,310 (-59.1%)
27-3031	Public Relations Specialists	$80,310	$56,610	-$23,700 (-29.5%)
27-3043	Writers and Authors	$85,780	$49,180	-$36,600 (-42.7%)
27-3099	Media and Communication Workers, All Other	$84,870	$45,880	-$38,990 (-45.9%)

09.0799 Radio, Television, and Digital Communication, Other. (Cert2y+)

Any instructional program in radio, television, and digital communications not listed above.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
99-9999	NO MATCH	N/A	N/A	N/A

Engineering (2)

Engineering Sciences and Applied Technology Solutions

14.0101 Engineering, General. (Cert2y+)

A program that generally prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to solve a wide variety of practical problems in industry, social organization, public works, and commerce. Includes instruction in undifferentiated and individualized programs in engineering.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9041	Architectural and Engineering Managers	$175,710	$147,200	-$28,510 (-16.2%)
17-2199	Engineers, All Other	$121,720	$91,600	-$30,120 (-24.7%)
25-1032	Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary	$119,340	$81,210	-$38,130 (-32%)

14.1001 Electrical and Electronics Engineering. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of electrical and electronic systems and their components, including electrical power generation systems; and the analysis of problems such as superconductor, wave propagation, energy storage and retrieval, and reception and amplification.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9041	Architectural and Engineering Managers	$175,710	$147,200	-$28,510 (-16.2%)
17-2011	Aerospace Engineers	$141,180	$110,770	-$30,410 (-21.5%)
17-2061	Computer Hardware Engineers	$156,770	$156,120	-$650 (-0.4%)
17-2071	Electrical Engineers	$120,980	$101,810	-$19,170 (-15.8%)
17-2072	Electronics Engineers, Except Computer	$132,500	$98,370	-$34,130 (-25.8%)
25-1032	Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary	$119,340	$81,210	-$38,130 (-32%)

English (3)

English Literature, Creative Writing and Literary Analysis

23.0101 English Language and Literature, General. (Cert2y+, BSc, PostBacCert)

A general program that focuses on the English language, including its history, structure and related communications skills; and the literature and culture of English-speaking peoples.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1123	English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary	$90,400	$63,670	-$26,730 (-29.6%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)
43-9081	Proofreaders and Copy Markers	$52,730	$50,560	-$2,170 (-4.1%)

Natural Resources (2)

Environmental Science and Natural Resource Management

03.0104 Environmental Science. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on the application of biological, chemical, and physical principles to the study of the physical environment and the solution of environmental problems, including subjects such as abating or controlling environmental pollution and degradation; the interaction between human society and the natural environment; and natural resources management. Includes instruction in biology, chemistry, physics, geosciences, climatology, statistics, and mathematical modeling.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
13-1041	Compliance Officers	$84,980	$63,080	-$21,900 (-25.8%)
19-2041	Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health	$88,640	$65,530	-$23,110 (-26.1%)
19-4042	Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health	$56,770	$50,340	-$6,430 (-11.3%)
19-4071	Forest and Conservation Technicians	$56,660	$54,090	-$2,570 (-4.5%)
25-1053	Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary	$100,360	$69,200	-$31,160 (-31%)

03.0201 Environmental/Natural Resources Management and Policy, General. (Cert2y+)

A program that prepares individuals to plan, develop, manage, and evaluate programs to protect and regulate natural habitats and renewable natural resources. Includes instruction in the principles of wildlife and conservation biology, environmental science, animal population surveying, natural resource economics, management techniques for various habitats, applicable law and policy, administrative and communications skills, and public relations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
19-1031	Conservation Scientists	$74,310	$65,050	-$9,260 (-12.5%)
19-1032	Foresters	$74,670	$77,870	+$3,200 (+4.3%)
25-1043	Forestry and Conservation Science Teachers, Postsecondary	$103,780	N/A	N/A

History (3)

Historical Studies, Cultural Heritage and Archaeological Research

54.0101 History, General. (Cert2y+, PostBacCert, AltPostMSc)

A program that focuses on the general study and interpretation of the past, including the gathering, recording, synthesizing and criticizing of evidence and theories about past events. Includes instruction in historiography; historical research methods; studies of specific periods, issues and cultures; and applications to areas such as historic preservation, public policy, and records administration.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9199	Managers, All Other	$149,890	$103,500	-$46,390 (-30.9%)
19-3093	Historians	$78,470	$93,800	+$15,330 (+19.5%)
25-1125	History Teachers, Postsecondary	$93,710	$71,020	-$22,690 (-24.2%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)
39-7011	Tour Guides and Escorts	N/A	N/A	N/A

Computer & IT (1)

Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity

11.0701 Computer Science. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on computer theory, computing problems and solutions, and the design of computer systems and user interfaces from a scientific perspective. Includes instruction in the principles of computational science, computer development and programming, and applications to a variety of end-use situations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-3021	Computer and Information Systems Managers	$187,990	$165,000	-$22,990 (-12.2%)
15-1212	Information Security Analysts	$127,730	$105,480	-$22,250 (-17.4%)
15-1221	Computer and Information Research Scientists	$152,310	$136,240	-$16,070 (-10.6%)
15-1231	Computer Network Support Specialists	$79,610	$63,680	-$15,930 (-20%)
15-1243	Database Architects	$142,620	$85,330	-$57,290 (-40.2%)
15-1251	Computer Programmers	$103,640	$86,100	-$17,540 (-16.9%)
15-1252	Software Developers	$144,570	$113,570	-$31,000 (-21.4%)
15-1253	Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers	$110,260	$79,700	-$30,560 (-27.7%)
15-1254	Web Developers	$98,790	$92,140	-$6,650 (-6.7%)
15-1255	Web and Digital Interface Designers	$111,450	$86,300	-$25,150 (-22.6%)
15-1299	Computer Occupations, All Other	$116,700	$86,250	-$30,450 (-26.1%)
15-2051	Data Scientists	$124,590	$97,340	-$27,250 (-21.9%)
25-1021	Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary	$105,830	$82,200	-$23,630 (-22.3%)

Mathematics (2)

Mathematical Sciences, Statistics and Computational Analysis

27.0101 Mathematics, General. (Cert2y+)

A general program that focuses on the analysis of quantities, magnitudes, forms, and their relationships, using symbolic logic and language. Includes instruction in algebra, calculus, functional analysis, geometry, number theory, logic, topology and other mathematical specializations.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9121	Natural Sciences Managers	$173,500	$132,640	-$40,860 (-23.6%)
15-2021	Mathematicians	$122,520	N/A	N/A
15-2041	Statisticians	$112,330	$109,680	-$2,650 (-2.4%)
15-2051	Data Scientists	$124,590	$97,340	-$27,250 (-21.9%)
15-2099	Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other	$84,700	$93,990	+$9,290 (+11%)
25-1022	Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary	$92,880	$69,980	-$22,900 (-24.7%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)

27.0503 Mathematics and Statistics. (BSc)

A program with a general synthesis of mathematics and statistics or a specialization which draws from mathematics and statistics. Includes instruction in calculus, linear algebra, numerical analysis and partial differential equations, discrete mathematics, probability theory, statistics, computing, and other related topics.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
11-9121	Natural Sciences Managers	$173,500	$132,640	-$40,860 (-23.6%)
15-2011	Actuaries	$134,990	$130,980	-$4,010 (-3%)
15-2021	Mathematicians	$122,520	N/A	N/A
15-2041	Statisticians	$112,330	$109,680	-$2,650 (-2.4%)
15-2051	Data Scientists	$124,590	$97,340	-$27,250 (-21.9%)
25-1022	Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary	$92,880	$69,980	-$22,900 (-24.7%)

Languages (1)

Foreign Languages, Literature and Linguistic Studies

16.0905 Spanish Language and Literature. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on the Spanish language and related dialects. Includes instruction in philology; Modern Castillan; Latin American and regional Spanish dialects; and applications in business, science/technology, and other settings.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1124	Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary	$87,670	$62,670	-$25,000 (-28.5%)
25-2031	Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education	$73,700	$51,640	-$22,060 (-29.9%)
27-3091	Interpreters and Translators	$64,950	$41,510	-$23,440 (-36.1%)

Interdisciplinary (1)

Cross-Disciplinary Studies and Integrated Research Programs

30.2001 International/Globalization Studies. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on global and international issues from the perspective of the social sciences, social services, and related fields.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
19-3094	Political Scientists	$137,600	N/A	N/A
25-1069	Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other	$92,950	$89,040	-$3,910 (-4.2%)

Philosophy (1)

Philosophical Studies, Ethics and Religious Thought

38.0101 Philosophy. (Cert2y+)

A program that focuses on ideas and their logical structure, including arguments and investigations about abstract and real phenomena. Includes instruction in logic, ethics, aesthetics, epistemology, metaphysics, symbolism, and history of philosophy, and applications to the theoretical foundations and methods of other disciplines.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1126	Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary	$88,210	$77,230	-$10,980 (-12.4%)

Liberal Arts (1)

Liberal Arts Education, General Studies and Humanities

24.0101 Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. (Cert2y+)

A program that is a structured combination of the arts, biological and physical sciences, social sciences, and humanities, emphasizing breadth of study. Includes instruction in independently designed, individualized, or regular programs.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1199	Postsecondary Teachers, All Other	$94,470	$60,950	-$33,520 (-35.5%)

Cultural Studies (2)

Cultural Anthropology, Ethnic Studies and Social Group Research

05.0202 American Indian/Native American Studies. (BSc, AltPostMSc)

A program that focuses on the history, sociology, politics, culture, and economics of one or more of the American Indian, Aleut, Inuit, Hawaiian and other native peoples of the Americas from earliest times until the present, with particular emphasis on U.S. and Canadian populations and their problems but including reference to Caribbean and Latin American native peoples.

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Average graduate salary for this degree:

SOC Code	Occupation	US National	North Carolina Avg	NC vs US
25-1062	Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary	$97,350	$80,390	-$16,960 (-17.4%)

Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs

Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students

Estimated Total Cost

(In-state)

$20,319

Estimated Total Cost

(Out-state)

$24,319

In-state Tuition (incl. fees)

$4,532

Tuition and fees for students residing in-state

Out-of-state Tuition (incl. fees)

$8,532

Tuition and fees for non-resident students

Room & Board

$11,764 (on) / $12,322 (off)

Housing and meal plan expenses

Books & Supplies

$693

Average yearly cost of books and study materials

Other Expenses

$3,330

Miscellaneous personal and institutional expenses

Other Expenses (with family)

$3,330

Estimated cost for students living with family

Graduate In-state Tuition (incl. fees)

$7,778

Graduate tuition rates for in-state students

Graduate Out-of-state Tuition (incl. fees)

$18,497

Graduate tuition rates for non-resident students

Financial Aid & Student Support

Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students

19%

FTFT Aid Recipients

Avg. Grant

$5,442

Avg. Loan

$6,085

Avg. Federal Loan

$4,858

Additional

Students with Any Grant

1,894

Students who received any type of grant aid

Students with Any Loan

1,002

Students who received any type of loan-based aid

Students with Federal Grant

1,882

Students who received a federal grant

Avg. Institutional Grant

$3,058

Average amount of institutional grant awarded

Show more financial aid data

Student Success Metrics

Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.

59%

Graduation Rate

Percentage of students who successfully graduate from the institution

76%

First-Year Retention Rate

Percentage of first-year students who continue for a second year

Median Earnings Over Time

$35,205 – $67,362

Salary Range (25th–75th Percentile, 10 Years)

$35,205 (25th %) $67,362 (75th %)

*Median Salary After 10 Years: $49,458

Median Salary After 6 Years

$43,085

Average annual earnings of former students six years after starting college.

Median Salary After 10 Years

$49,458

Average annual earnings of former students ten years after starting college.

Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes

Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.

3-Year Loan Repayment Rate

59.5%

Share of borrowers who repaid loans within 3 years

Repayment Rate (Graduates Only)

68.7%

Repayment rate among students who completed their program

Median Student Loan Debt

$21,868

Median federal loan debt of undergraduate completers at time of graduation.

Repayment by Income

Low 54.6%

Middle 59.6%

High 64.9%

Repayment by Dependency

Dependent 60.6%

Independent 55.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about Western Carolina University (WCU)

How much does it cost to attend Western Carolina University (WCU)?

The annual tuition at Western Carolina University (WCU) is $4,532 for in-state students and $8,532 for out-of-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $20,319 for in-state students and $24,319 for out-of-state students. Additional costs include room and board $11,764 (on) / $12,322 (off) and books and supplies $693.

Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.

What academic programs and degree levels does Western Carolina University offer?

Western Carolina University (WCU) offers 121 academic programs across 24 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Bachelor's, Postbac Cert., Master's, Post-Master's, Doctorate (Research), Doctorate (Professional), Other Award.

Most popular program areas include:

Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy (22 programs)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice (17 programs)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship (15 programs)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance (9 programs)
Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support (7 programs)

Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.

What is the acceptance rate for Western Carolina University?

Western Carolina University (WCU) has an 86.7% acceptance rate and a 13.3% yield rate, making it moderately selective.

Admission statistics breakdown:

Total applicants: 18,183
Students admitted: 15,758
Students enrolled: 2,103

Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Admission statistics may vary by program and application cycle.

What financial aid and scholarships are available at Western Carolina University?

Western Carolina University (WCU) provides financial aid to 19% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $5,442 and average loans of $6,085.

Average financial aid amounts by type:

Pell grants: $5,063
State/Local grants: $1,508
Institutional grants: $3,058
Federal loans: $4,858

The university supports 1,894 students with grants and 1,002 students with loans annually.

Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.

What is the average salary for Western Carolina University graduates?

Western Carolina University (WCU) graduates earn a median salary of $43,085 after 6 years and $49,458 after 10 years.

The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $35,205 (25th percentile) to $67,362 (75th percentile).

Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.

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Data Sources & Disclaimer: Institutional data from IPEDS and College Scorecard for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data from OEWS May 2024.

Program numbers reflect graduates, not all offered programs. Earnings represent median values and may vary by location and experience. Some information may be outdated — visit the university's official website for current details or contact us about discrepancies.

Western Carolina University (WCU) : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings

About Western Carolina University

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Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

Graduate Career Earnings in North Carolina

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