Florence-Darlington Technical College vs Francis Marion University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Neither clears its cost on institution-wide earnings, but Francis Marion University comes closer — median earnings $43,888 against a $45,544 total, vs $32,748 at Florence-Darlington Technical College. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Florence-Darlington Technical College | Francis Marion University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $2,004 | $11,386 |
| Total net cost | $8,016 | $45,544 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $32,748 | $43,888 |
| Median debt | $12,250 | $27,000 |
| Payback | — | — |
| 20-year net return | -$320,256 | -$134,984 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Florence-Darlington Technical College vs Francis Marion University: frequently asked questions
Is Florence-Darlington Technical College or Francis Marion University a better value?
Francis Marion University comes closer, but neither clears its cost on institution-wide earnings — the field you study decides it here more than the school.
Which is cheaper, Florence-Darlington Technical College or Francis Marion University?
Florence-Darlington Technical College: $2,004/yr net price after aid versus $11,386/yr at Francis Marion University — a difference of $9,382 a year, or about $37,528 over four years.
Do Florence-Darlington Technical College or Francis Marion University graduates earn more?
Francis Marion University graduates earn a median $43,888 ten years after entry, versus $32,748 at Florence-Darlington Technical College — a $11,140 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.