Charleston Southern University vs Citadel Military College of South Carolina: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Citadel Military College of South Carolina has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $82,892 in 3.5 years versus not at all at Charleston Southern University, on median earnings of $72,085 vs $45,898 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Charleston Southern University | Citadel Military College of South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $21,666 | $20,723 |
| Total net cost | $86,664 | $82,892 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $45,898 | $72,085 |
| Median debt | $26,471 | $21,096 |
| Payback | — | 3.5 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$135,904 | $391,608 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Charleston Southern University vs Citadel Military College of South Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Charleston Southern University or Citadel Military College of South Carolina a better value?
Citadel Military College of South Carolina. It clears its $82,892 net cost in about 3.5 years versus no clear payback at Charleston Southern University, on median earnings of $72,085 vs $45,898 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Charleston Southern University or Citadel Military College of South Carolina?
Citadel Military College of South Carolina: $20,723/yr net price after aid versus $21,666/yr at Charleston Southern University — a difference of $943 a year, or about $3,772 over four years.
Do Charleston Southern University or Citadel Military College of South Carolina graduates earn more?
Citadel Military College of South Carolina graduates earn a median $72,085 ten years after entry, versus $45,898 at Charleston Southern University — a $26,187 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.