College of Charleston vs Trident Technical College: 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 Trident Technical College, on median earnings of $56,416 vs $38,253 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | College of Charleston | Trident Technical College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $18,960 | $1,406 |
| Total net cost | $75,840 | $2,812 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $56,416 | $38,253 |
| Median debt | $23,250 | $13,029 |
| Payback | 9.4 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $85,280 | $-204,952 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.