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Western Nevada College (WNC) is a small, four-year public college founded in 1971. It’s located in Carson City, which is just outside of Lake Tahoe near the California border, with scenic mountain views. The college has three campuses in total, including Fallon and Douglas, with a student body population of roughly 3,700. The college aims to provide equity opportunities in an inclusive and nurturing environment.


Overview of Western Nevada College


Students can pursue certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees in a variety of fields. The college accepts all types of students including transfer students, professional students, adult learners, and first-time students. Each program centers around lifetime learning and innovation. Some of the most popular degrees include business, education, and the sciences. Many associate degrees prepare students to transfer to four-year colleges and universities throughout the country. The continuing education courses are designed for skill development, personal enrichment, and professional enhancement.

As part of the entire college experience, students will have access to a wide array of clubs and organizations including the LGBTQIA+ Alliance, Nursing Club, Psychology Club, Nerd Herd, Chess and Board Games Club, Fallon History Club, Cyber Club, Social Work Club, and others. Students have access to a variety of resources and tools to help improve their academics and personal situations such as strategic planning, research institutes, veteran resources, tutoring, mentorships, advising, and much more.

General Information


School Type Primarily associate's, Public
Campus Setting City: Small
Campus Housing No
Student Faculty Ratio 17:1
Graduation Rate 25%
Year Founded 1971

Student Enrollment


Total Students3,327

Undergraduate
3,327
Graduate
NA

Undergraduate Student

Male 1,397
1,397
Female 1,930
1,930

Graduate Student

Male NA
NA
Female NA
NA

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Admissions


APPLICATIONSNA

Male    NA
Female NA

ACCEPTANCENA

Male    NA
Female NA

Acceptance RateNA

Male    NA
Female NA

Enrollment NA

Male    NA
Female NA
Admissions
Application Fee $15
High School GPA NA
High School Rank NA
High School Transcripts NA
College Prep Courses NA
Recommendations NA
SAT/ACT NA
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) NA
Application Deadline N/A
Common Application Accepted No

Tuition Cost & Financial Aid


Western Nevada College is far more affordable than most public schools in the US, costing $3,428 for in-state tuition and $10,618 for out-of-state tuition. It’s important to note that these costs do not include expenses for living and attending classes such as room and board, books, supplies, and others. These additional expenses add up to roughly $17,000. If students wish to attend activities and events off-campus or spend time exploring the region, even more funds will be necessary.

The college offers a number of scholarships and grants to help reduce the overall cost of education. This financial assistance, in addition to student loans and work-study programs, helps to lower the average net price to $11,343. Scholarships and grants are available for all levels of financial need, varied interests, and for merit. Many students also choose to work full-time or part-time jobs while they pursue degrees.

Average net price 2017-2018
Net Price $11,187
Average Total Aid $4,568
Students Receiving Financial Aid 74%
Room & Board $10,100

Sticker Price


  • Tuition In-State - $3,428
  • Tuition Out-of-State - $10,618
  • Books and Supplies - $1,400
  • Room & Board - $10,100
  • Other - $5,158

Academics


Academics at WNC are available for a variety of career pathways. It’s common for students to pursue an associate degree or start a bachelor’s degree at WNC and transfer to a four-year college or university as a junior. These programs are designed for seamless transfer to some of the best higher learning institutions in Nevada including the University of Nevada at Las Vegas, the University of Nevada at Reno, Nevada State College, and others.

The type of associate degrees available include nursing, emergency medical services, laboratory technician, nursing assistant, and more. Some students might choose to work toward a degree in social work, corrections, welding, general studies, or others. WNC has several designated programs to enhance academics. The ACCEL College and Career Readiness program helps students boost essential skills for career employment and development. Another is the Silver State Transfer Program, for students who wish to transfer to the University of Nevada at Reno.

Students can also pursue online certificate programs that take between 6 months and 18 months. These certificates are designed to complement careers and build upon skills. Personal enrichment classes are available online. Professional development and continuing education courses were developed to be completed very quickly. High school students can also participate in dual enrollment courses and the school offers a Higher Education in Prison program. All programs offer a student-to-faculty ratio of 17 to 1 and a graduation rate of 31%. While the graduation rate is close to the national average, the low figure could be directly related to a high number of part-time and transfer students.

Student Population Total


Student Population 3,327

Undergraduate
3,327
Graduate
NA
Evening Classes : No
Online Learning : Yes

Most Popular Programs & Majors

(# of Diplomas Awarded by Subject)


Construction Trades 6 Total Graduates / 100%
Building/Construction Site Management/Manager 6 Graduates
All Other Diplomas 0%

Outcome & Salary


To help boost the employability of WNC graduates, the school created a career center. Students can access the center online or in person. The services offered through the center assist with job preparation including career counseling, job interview preparation, career assessments, resume and cover letter writing, job application assistance, job search guidance, and more.

There is also a WNC Foundation, which is composed of reputable community members, as a way to support the future of students at WNC. This foundation provides technology, ambassadors, and essential funding necessary to keep the school operating at a high level.

Graduates Salary
College Grads Early Career Salary $41,400
College Grads Average Salary $47,000
College Grads Mid Career Salary $61,100
Return on Investment (ROI)
10 Year Salary Earnings Potential $470,000
20 Year Salary Earnings Potential $1,081,000
Cost of Education (Net Price) 4 Year $44,748
10 Year Projected ROI $425,252
20 Year Projected ROI $1,036,252
No College Education Salary Comparison
National Average Salary $38,792
10 Year Projected Income $387,920
20 Year Projected Income $775,840

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