University of South Carolina-Columbia vs Trident Technical College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of South Carolina-Columbia has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $91,244 in 6.6 years versus not at all at Trident Technical College, on median earnings of $62,177 vs $38,253 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of South Carolina-Columbia | Trident Technical College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $22,811 | $1,406 |
| Total net cost | $91,244 | $2,812 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $62,177 | $38,253 |
| Median debt | $21,500 | $13,029 |
| Payback | 6.6 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $185,096 | $-204,952 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.