How do I apply for admission?

·        Visit the Apply Now page. Click on the link that matches your level of interest. 

·        Undergraduate students - please read and follow the appropriate paragraph’s information and instructions with regard to your educational experiences.

·        Graduate applicants must submit a copy of your transcript with a bachelor’s degree awarded (from a regionally accredited institution) for admission.  (Official transcripts will be asked for if you continue your studies with WCU.)

·        On the online application select the “distance non-degree” degree program.

·        After submitting the on-line application, the $40 application can be paid by mailing a check to the Admissions Office or the Graduate School office or by calling the One Stop at 828-227-7334.

How many courses can I enroll in?

• Typically, if you are employed full-time, six hours or two 3 credit hour classes is considered a heavy load.  You should plan at least 10 hours a week for study in each course.   Online courses require self-discipline and good time management.  We want you to be successful.   So, if you have questions about the class, please call and we can assist you.
  
• Non-degree undergraduate students may accumulate a maximum of 18 semester hours before they must change their status to degree seeking.

What is considered full-time graduate studies?
            9 hours.

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

How will I register for my class(es)?
Directions for Self-Registration
You will be issued a Student Number when you are admitted as a student to WCU.   Use of your Identification Number requires a security PIN which is your birthday --6 digit month, day and year --MMDDYY.

• Go to the WCU home page: http://www.wcu.edu/
• Go to the “My CAT” link found to the right on the purple banner
• Enter your username (Student ID or 92 number – no hyphens or dashes  --  you receive this upon admission to WCU)
• Enter your password
  [*Initially, your PIN has been set as 6 digits, first 2 for birth month, next 2 for birth day, last 2 digits last two digits of your birth year.   However, if you have changed your PIN, use your new number.]
• Go to the “Personal Services” tab
• Go to “Registration” under the Student Services & Financial Aid header or type in “Registration” in the Search box
• Click on “Drop/Add Classes
• Select a Term using the drop down box
• Scroll down the screen
• Enter your schedule by entering the 5-digit Course Registration Numbers (CRN#). The CRN# is the five digit number.  (i.e. 10677 BK 250 Intro Birth-Kindergarten)
• When you finish entering all your courses, click on the “Submit Registration” button.
• A message will be displayed indicating the status of the request.
• If, after following the above directions, you need assistance, please contact us for assistance.  1-866-928-4723 and ask for Distance Learning Student Services.

What is the tuition rate of distance learning?

·        Distance Education Tuition and Fees

Is financial aid available?

• Many of you will be applying as special (non-degree seeking) students this fall.  In most cases, you must be fully admitted to a program within the university in order to receive financial aid from Western Carolina University.  However, if your employer has a tuition reimbursement program, we encourage you to contact the human resources department at your place of employment to investigate those opportunities. 
• Military students and their family members should contact Chuck Gross, Director of Military Education (828-227-2135; cgross@wcu.edu)

How do I order and pay for my books? Where do I pick them up?

·        Books may be purchased online through the University Bookstore, or in person. 

·        In Asheville, the bookstore is located at Karpen Hall, room 102-A. 

·        The WCU bookstore may be reached at (828) 227-7346 or toll free at (866) 272-4102.  

·        The bookstore will mail your textbooks to your home mailing address for a nominal fee.

How do I access my WebCAT online course?

1. Go to www.wcu.edu/webct or www.wcu.edu/webcat 
2. Type in your Username (ID) and Password.

Username: Your WCU ID number (begins with 92)
Password: Your password is identical to the PIN that you use to login to My Cat.
Learn more about your new WCU WebCT and WebCat account from WCU ID Frequently Asked Questions .

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: itshelp@email.wcu.edu

What do I do if I have to withdraw from my courses?

            Contact the One Stop center immediately at 828-227-7334 for assistance with course drops and withdrawals.  Remember that communication is important.  Don’t just stop attending – or stop signing into your online class.  Let the One Stop help you process your drop/withdrawal so that when you are ready to return to WCU, you can do so easily.  Keep in mind that non-action will result in a failing grade.

How do I find out more about WCU’s online, Distance Learning and Graduate Programs? 

• Distance and Online Programs
• Graduate School
• Military Education and information/resources for dependents