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Colleges / SC / Charleston
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Charleston Southern University

Private nonprofit Charleston, SC · Urban · Southeast · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
48%
Graduation Rate
$45,898
Earnings (10yr)
$21,666
Net Price
96%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

With an acceptance rate of 96%, Charleston Southern University is a welcoming place for students who are looking to explore various fields while receiving a supportive education. If you’re drawn to Health Professions, Business & Marketing, Education, Biology & Biomedical, or Psychology, this might be a solid fit. The smaller enrollment of around 2,893 means you’re likely to find a close-knit community, which can enrich your college experience and foster lasting connections.

After graduation, students from Charleston Southern can expect to earn an average of $45,898 within ten years. This figure illustrates the potential for a stable financial future, especially when considering the affordability of the school. With a net price of $21,666 after aid, it’s accessible for many. While the graduation rate is 48%, those who do complete their degree often see positive outcomes, suggesting that the support offered can help lift students up to new opportunities.

When it comes to the practical aspects of attending Charleston Southern, the median debt stands at $26,471. For many students, this is manageable, especially considering the average earnings post-graduation. Those who thrive here often appreciate the community atmosphere and the chance to engage deeply in their studies. It’s a place where students can develop both personally and academically, preparing them for the next steps in life.

Rankings

How Charleston Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation48%Earnings 10yr$46KNet Price$22KRetention63%Median Debt$26KPell Grant Rate34%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$20K$0-30K$23K$30-48K$21K$48-75K$23K$110K+

The Mobility Equation

Mobility = Access x Success. How many low-income students get in, and how many reach the top 20%?

ACCESS% from bottom 20%1197.6%SUCCESS% who reach top 20%1791.5%MOBILITY214.55%

Cost & Financial Aid

$32,520
In-State Tuition
$32,520
Out-of-State
$21,666
Avg Net Price
$26,471
Median Debt
34%
Pell Grant Rate
48%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$20,145
Family Income $0–$30K
$23,024
Family Income $30K–$48K
$20,697
Family Income $48K–$75K
$23,226
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$40,606
6 Years After Entry
$43,795
8 Years
$45,898
10 Years
0.58x
Debt-to-Earnings
58%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$40,606 6yr $43,795 8yr $45,898 10yr

Social Mobility

Data: Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card · 30M+ anonymized tax records

214.55%
Mobility Rate
Bottom 20% → Top 20%
1791.5%
Success Rate
If bottom 20% get in
1197.6%
From Bottom 20%
Share of students
$70,500
Parent Median Income

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.35
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
-0.01
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
4.4%
Volunteering Rate
0.99
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 96%
Retention Rate 63%
SAT Average 1059
ACT Midpoint 21
SAT Range 930–1160
ACT Range 18–24
Full-Time Faculty 58%
Faculty Salary (mo) $6,523
Diversity Index 0.60
First-Gen Students 31%

Top Programs

Health Professions 20%
Business & Marketing 18%
Education 10%
Biology & Biomedical 9%
Psychology 9%
Social Sciences 6%
Criminal Justice 4%
Visual & Performing Arts 4%