Graduate School FAQs

What are the requirements for admission? 
An undergraduate background appropriate for graduate study in the proposed field. An applicant may be required to take additional coursework to strengthen the undergraduate background. A satisfactory score on the standardized graduate test for the program selected (e.g., GRE, GMAT).

How do I apply to graduate school?
You can apply now! using our online application. You will need to set up a free Slate account in order to access the online application. Once your application is complete, it will be sent to the program for review.

Are there deadlines for admission?
There are deadlines for specific programs. For programs without formal deadlines we recommend that completing the application no less than four to six weeks before classes begin.

Do I have to take the GRE?
You have to take the GRE for most, but not every program. Visit our programs information page.

What is the Institution Code for the GRE?
5897

I have a copy of my transcript, will that be sufficient?
Yes. For the application process, you can upload your unofficial transcripts into your online application. If you are admitted, WCU will require an official transcript from your bachelor's degree or highest earned degree.

How long does it take to get a master's degree?
It varies by program, but students can typically complete a master's degree in about 2 years.

What is considered full-time graduate studies?
Students must enroll in at least nine hours per semester to be full time.

How do I calculate my GPA, since my program requires me to submit a GPA for the last 60 etc. hours of course work?
Download and fill out the GPA Calculator (XLS). Enter the number of hours you earned at each grade. Some programs require applicants to report GPA on the last 60 hours You may submit this file with your aplication to show GPA on your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work.

Can I enroll in two degree programs at the same time?
No.

What if my plans change, and I am unable to attend for the term I applied for?

Deferrals require program approval and are only for accepted students. You must email gradadmissions@wcu.edu to request a deferral before the last day of the add/drop period of your entry term. Failing to do so will result in deactivation of your student record, and you will have to reapply and pay the application fee.

How much does it cost to go to Graduate School at WCU?
Compared to other institutions, WCU's Graduate School is reasonably priced. View our tuition and fees page for current tuition rates.

How do I pay for graduate school?
You can pay for graduate school in many ways. WCU offers various scholarships, Study Grants, and tuition waivers click the links for information about these options. We also provide graduate assistantships. Learn more about paying for graduate school.

What is a graduate assistantship?
A graduate assistantship is a job. You work 20 hours per week teaching, conducting research, or in some other professional development position on campus. Assistantship salaries range from $8000-$10,500. Learn more about graduate assistantships.

Can I get an assistantship if I have another job?
No, you cannot have any other employment than the assistantship.

Is my tuition automatically waived if I receive a graduate assistantship?
No. You must have an assistantship to receive a tuition waiver, but not everyone with an assistantship will get a waiver. Speak with your program director or department head for information about receiving a tuition waiver.

How do I get in-state residency?
For more information on Residency for Tuition Purposes, please refer to the RDS (Residency Determination System) web page.

How do I register for courses?
Log in to myWCU to register for your classes.
Username: Your student ID# (nine digits, begins with 920)
Password: Your birthdate in the following format, MMDDYY

If you don't know, or can't remember your student ID# refer to your admission letter, or contact the registrar.

How do I access my Canvas online course?
1. Go to myWCU or Canvas
2. Type in your Username (ID) and Password. 
 Username: Your WCU ID number (nine digits, begins with 92)
Password: Your password is your birth date in the following format. MMDDYY.
If you don't know your WCU ID number, please contact the Registrar.
If you have any problems with logging on to your course, call the IT Services Help Desk at 828.227.7487 or 1.866.928.7487 or email: ithelp@wcu.edu

How do I order and pay for my books? Where do I pick them up?
You can purchase books online through the University Bookstore, or in person. Contact the bookstore by phone at 828.227.7346 or toll free at 866.272.4102. Asheville students contact Programs in Asheville at (828) 251-6642 for book pick up information.

I am graduating this semester, what do I need to do?
Log in to myWCU and complete the Application for Graduation under the "Student Services" tab. You must complete the application at the beginning of the semester in which you intend to graduate. If you have trouble with the application, or need help filling it out, contact the University Registrar's Office at 828.227.7216

What do I need to know if my class is in Asheville?
For the latest information about Asheville classes, visit our WCU Programs in Asheville website.

Is transportation available to class in Asheville from Cullowhee?
No, we currently have no transportation system in place. However, many students do carpool.

My classes are in Asheville, am I a distance student?
No. Distance students are those taking courses in a program offered only online. The List of Distance Programs.

Where is the Graduate School located?
The Graduate School is conveniently located near the main entrance to WCU's Cullowhee campus. When entering campus, take an immediate right. Then, take your first right across the bridge to the Cordelia Camp Building. Our office is located in 110 Cordelia Camp Building. Campus Map

Cullowhee is located 45 minutes west of Asheville between the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains, less than 3 hours from Atlanta.

Where do I go for help in getting a job in my major?
Many of our programs focus on helping you get a job. Check with your Program Director and visit our Career Services.

Is student insurance available? If so, how much does it cost?
Yes, student insurance is available. For more information, visit Student Health Insurance and WCU's Health Center.

Are there any graduate student organizations?
Yes, WCU has a very active graduate student population including Graduate Student Association (GSA).