College of Charleston vs Charleston Southern University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
College of Charleston has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $75,840 in 9.4 years versus not at all at Charleston Southern University, on median earnings of $56,416 vs $45,898 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | College of Charleston | Charleston Southern University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $18,960 | $21,666 |
| Total net cost | $75,840 | $86,664 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $56,416 | $45,898 |
| Median debt | $23,250 | $26,471 |
| Payback | 9.4 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $85,280 | -$135,904 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
College of Charleston vs Charleston Southern University: frequently asked questions
Is College of Charleston or Charleston Southern University a better value?
College of Charleston. It clears its $75,840 net cost in about 9.4 years versus no clear payback at Charleston Southern University, on median earnings of $56,416 vs $45,898 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, College of Charleston or Charleston Southern University?
College of Charleston: $18,960/yr net price after aid versus $21,666/yr at Charleston Southern University — a difference of $2,706 a year, or about $10,824 over four years.
Do College of Charleston or Charleston Southern University graduates earn more?
College of Charleston graduates earn a median $56,416 ten years after entry, versus $45,898 at Charleston Southern University — a $10,518 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.