Trident Technical College 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 Trident Technical College, on median earnings of $72,085 vs $38,253 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Trident Technical College | Citadel Military College of South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $1,406 | $20,723 |
| Total net cost | $2,812 | $82,892 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $38,253 | $72,085 |
| Median debt | $13,029 | $21,096 |
| Payback | — | 3.5 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$204,952 | $391,608 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Trident Technical College vs Citadel Military College of South Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Trident Technical College 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 Trident Technical College, on median earnings of $72,085 vs $38,253 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Trident Technical College or Citadel Military College of South Carolina?
Trident Technical College: $1,406/yr net price after aid versus $20,723/yr at Citadel Military College of South Carolina — a difference of $19,317 a year, or about $80,080 over four years.
Do Trident Technical College 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 $38,253 at Trident Technical College — a $33,832 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.