College of Charleston 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 9.4 years at College of Charleston, on median earnings of $72,085 vs $56,416 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | College of Charleston | Citadel Military College of South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $18,960 | $20,723 |
| Total net cost | $75,840 | $82,892 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $56,416 | $72,085 |
| Median debt | $23,250 | $21,096 |
| Payback | 9.4 yrs | 3.5 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $85,280 | $391,608 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
College of Charleston vs Citadel Military College of South Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is College of Charleston 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 9.4 years at College of Charleston, on median earnings of $72,085 vs $56,416 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, College of Charleston or Citadel Military College of South Carolina?
College of Charleston: $18,960/yr net price after aid versus $20,723/yr at Citadel Military College of South Carolina — a difference of $1,763 a year, or about $7,052 over four years.
Do College of Charleston 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 $56,416 at College of Charleston — a $15,669 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.