WCU Stories

The Many Facets of Science

The newest jewel to adorn the campus of Western Carolina University is the cutting-edge, futuristic, uniquely organic Apodaca Science Building. Housing programs ranging from biology and chemistry to physics and forensic science, the building replaces the aging Natural Science Building which was built in the 1970s.

Full Story

Hallowed Grounds

Five mounded graves, the occupants unknown other than their status as enslaved people. Blair Tormey, a geologist with the Program for the Study of Developed Shorelines at Western Carolina University, adjusted his ballcap and quickly assembled a ground penetrating radar unit, looking much like a robotic lawn mower, before pushing it up the hillside. The destination, an almost forgotten cemetery, is a long way from any coastal beachfront or tidal basin where he might otherwise be working on a day like today.

Full Story

Coping with Covid-19

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, college life as WCU students knew it changed drastically. Here's a look at how they had to adapt to a new way of living and learning.

Full Story

Pandemic Drives Demand for Professional and Graduate Programs

As Asheville’s population and economy look to recover from months of slowdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, regional professionals are increasingly seeking ways to develop their skills, increase their credentials and stand out among the competition for new opportunities and career advancement. Increased demand resulted in a record enrollment this fall for Western Carolina University’s Asheville-based programs, with a 10 percent growth in students served compared to fall 2019.

Learn More

Research and Discovery

Explore the the way our students, faculty and staff are shaping the world we live in.

See the stories

Discover virtual tours, photo galleries and see what makes WCU unique.

Explore Catamount Country

Photo of the Week

It's Lit - Spring Literary Festival

MacArthur Geniuses, a New York Times bestseller, and the winner of the Latino International Book Award.

Watch the Videos

The Eyes Have It

School of Art and Design students capture the diversity of the student body.

Explore the Photos

Supporting the Community

Nursing Students Assist with Local COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic

Learn More

No Matter Your Choice

Decide to Succeed

It’s not the decision that defines you, but the determination to push past what you believe is possible and embrace your successes.

Make the choice

Transfer student honored with national scholarship for academic prowess, community outreach

As a high school senior Olivia Swalm had her life all planned out: Furman University, premed major in biology, then medical school and a career as a forensic pathologist. Then she was forced to take a knee.

Full Story

WCU designated Voter Friendly Campus - again

Coming off the local, state and national political season of the fall, WCU once again has been designated a Voter Friendly Campus.

Full Story

High Hampton resort offers tuition reimbursement to WCU students

What began as small conversations regarding the possibility WCU establishing an internship program with High Hampton resort in Cashiers has led to a partnership establishing the High Hampton Educational Assistance Plan.

Full Story