Top 10 Reasons Why

1. Wyoming is ranked #2 in the nation for higher education

In a 2018 study by SmartAsset, the quality of education is much higher in Wyoming than that of our neighboring states. Factors contributing to this are low student-to-faculty ratios – Western’s is 11 students to every professor. Western was also ranked as one of the Top 50 Colleges and Universities in the U.S. for Associates Degrees. Additionally, Wyoming’s state graduation rate is 55%, while the national average is just 28%. Register for the coming semester! 

2. Save $34k in two years 

College doesn’t have to be expensive. By coming to Western Wyoming Community College first, you can save big time–up to $17,000 a year on average compared to going to a local University. Western also awarded $8 million in scholarships, grants, and federal aid in 2021/2022. According to U.S. News Wyoming is ranked #4 in the nation for affordable education. Whether you are from Wyoming, out-of-state, an online learner, a traditional student, or an adult learner, Western can help you achieve your dream. Check out Western's Financial Aid options.  

3. NEW Interstate Passport Network 

Western participates in the Interstate Passport Network. This network of accredited institutions provides a seamless transfer of the general education block between its members. Students who complete their Interstate Passport at Western will not be required to repeat or take additional coursework to meet core requirements! This applies to the Passport's nine areas when you transfer to any other Passport institution. There are over 67 member institutions in 21 states partnered through Interstate Passport! Transfer to the University of Wyoming or as far away as Hawaii!  

4. Be a part of 80% 

Students come first in our book, and we make sure you feel that during your studies here. Through a variety of academic labs, available tutoring, access to professors and more, we give you the tools you need to be successful. This is proven by 80% of all students passing their courses. Your ability to succeed matters here.  

5. Hands-on learning and small class sizes

Western’s faculty is known for caring about their students. The small class sizes, 11 students for every professor, make student learning more successful. Western was ranked #10 in the U.S. for Best Student to Faculty Ratio in 2021. Not only do students get more one-on-one time with their instructors, but they also get hands-on opportunities they wouldn’t see until years later at a four-year institution. Find out more about our faculty for your academic major and email them directly to learn more. 

6. Campus is close to residence halls and includes free parking

With Wyoming’s incredible landscape also comes winter weather - great for outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding, but not always fun for commuting. Western’s residence halls are close to campus so you can get to class as quickly and as comfortably as possible. Not to mention you are 40% more likely to graduate by staying in one of Western’s residence halls. Check out our residence hall options here! Not only do you have a quick commute to class, but Western’s parking is always free - anywhere on campus, and you can rest easy with Western’s six full-time security personnel on campus 24/7. Take a tour or check out the campus map for an overview with pictures. 

7. Vibrant campus with tons of student life activities

Our students can participate in intramural sports, dances, open-mic nights, movie nights, meet with friends in the game room, join clubs, attend off-campus trips and activities as well as enjoy the amenities our campus has to offer. Western offers outdoor rec courses such as whitewater rafting, snowboarding, fly fishing, rock climbing and more. At Western we care about your mental health too! Visit our Wellbeing and Accessibility office to chill out and relax, or talk to someone about how you are feeling. Visit our Student Life page for the details!  

8. Research opportunities with faculty  

Western’s small class sizes and hands-on learning opportunities allow students to participate in awesome research opportunities. Each year students present their research at the Undergraduate Research Symposium. Our student-faculty teams have presented their research around the nation, including the New England Science Symposium held at Harvard Medical School and in front of thousands at the Experimental Biology Conference in San Diego, California. Learn more about Western’s research opportunities!  

9. Be a LEADER at Western

Western encourages students to take a leadership role in one of the 25 clubs (on average). Not only does this type of role look great on your resume, it helps develop important skills for the workplace after graduation. Western even has leadership scholarship opportunities! Learn more on our Club and Student Government page about honors on our Phi Thea Kappa page. Apply to be a Mustang Ambassador here.  

10. Find your strengths with Career Coach 

With Western offering a variety of degree and certificate programs how do you choose the right fit for you? Western has resources to help you find your passion. We’ve implemented Career Coach to help you find a career that matches your strengths and profiles the education you need for those professions. When you have a career vision you are more likely to complete a program of study on time and succeed in your career path.