Rankings / By State

Best Master's Programs in South Carolina

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 32 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$47,740

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

51%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$18,410

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right master's program can be a pivotal decision, especially in South Carolina, where 32 institutions offer advanced degrees. Each of these schools aims to equip students with the skills needed to succeed in their careers, but the outcomes can vary significantly. The average earnings for graduates in the state is $47,740, underscoring the importance of selecting a program that truly delivers on its promises.

What sets the top programs apart from the others? Key factors like graduate earnings, graduation rates, student debt, and overall completion rates provide a clearer picture of potential success. For instance, Clemson University boasts impressive earnings of $71,513, along with an 87% graduation rate, making it a standout choice for prospective students looking for strong outcomes.

Take Wofford College and Citadel Military College of South Carolina, for example. Wofford graduates earn $68,964 on average, with an 82% graduation rate. In contrast, Citadel's earnings are slightly higher at $72,085, but it has a lower graduation rate of 74%. This contrast highlights the tradeoffs students need to consider when evaluating their options, whether they prioritize higher earnings or a stronger completion rate.

Key Findings

Clemson University graduates earn an average of $71,513.

Wofford College has a graduation rate of 82%, while Citadel's is 74%.

The average debt for a master's degree in South Carolina is $21,500.

Furman University students face the highest net price at $30,308.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 32

Avg. earnings at 10yr $47,740

Avg. graduation rate 51%

Avg. net price $18,410

Avg. median debt $24,438

How We Ranked

Master's programs in South Carolina ranked by graduate outcomes

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Wofford College

Spartanburg, SC

Graduation82%

Earnings$68,964

Net Price$18,732

View full profile →

Clemson University

Clemson, SC

Graduation87%

Earnings$71,513

Net Price$22,253

View full profile →

Furman University

Greenville, SC

Graduation80%

Earnings$68,635

Net Price$30,308

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

Wofford College

Spartanburg, SC · 1,816 students · Private nonprofit

Wofford College, a private nonprofit institution, fosters a close-knit community with just 1,816 students. Known for its strong liberal arts curriculum, Wofford holds an 82% graduation rate, indicating that students receive personalized attention and support as they pursue their degrees in Spartanburg, SC.

52% accepted 82% graduate $68,964 earnings

Wofford's full profile

Clemson University

Clemson, SC · 23,300 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 87%, Clemson University is a strong choice for students seeking a solid return on their investment. Located in the heart of South Carolina, this public university has a vibrant campus life and a wide range of academic programs, drawing in over 23,000 students who thrive in a collaborative environment.

38% accepted 87% graduate $71,513 earnings

Clemson's full profile

Furman University

Greenville, SC · 2,379 students · Private nonprofit

At Furman University in Greenville, SC, students benefit from a tight-knit community of around 2,379 peers, where about 80% graduate. With median earnings of $68,635 a decade after graduation, the school's commitment to student success is evident. The campus is known for its beautiful landscape and a strong liberal arts education that encourages critical thinking and personal growth. It's a place where students can cultivate meaningful relationships with professors and fellow students alike.

43% accepted 80% graduate $68,635 earnings

Furman's full profile

College of Charleston

Charleston, SC · 10,558 students · Public

The College of Charleston, located in the vibrant city of Charleston, SC, hosts over 10,500 students in a picturesque setting. With a graduation rate of 65%, the school emphasizes experiential learning and strong community engagement, encouraging students to connect their studies to real-world applications. The blend of academic rigor and the lively cultural scene offers a unique environment for personal and intellectual growth.

60% accepted 65% graduate $56,416 earnings

College's full profile

Presbyterian College

Clinton, SC · 852 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings figure of $60,194 a decade after graduation, Presbyterian College in Clinton, SC, showcases a strong return on investment for graduates. The tight-knit community of 852 students fosters close relationships that can lead to lasting networks, ideal for those looking to develop both academically and socially in a supportive environment.

68% accepted 56% graduate $60,194 earnings

Presbyterian's full profile

Coastal Carolina University

Conway, SC · 10,377 students · Public

Coastal Carolina University in Conway, SC, welcomes around 10,377 students with open arms, boasting a 75% acceptance rate. However, the graduation rate is lower at 50%, highlighting a potential challenge for some students. The university’s coastal location offers a relaxed atmosphere where students can enjoy both academic pursuits and outdoor activities, but it’s crucial for students to stay focused and engaged in their studies to succeed.

75% accepted 50% graduate $47,258 earnings

Coastal's full profile

Winthrop University

Rock Hill, SC · 3,523 students · Public

With a student body of 3,523, Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC, emphasizes a supportive community that encourages personal growth. The 59% graduation rate indicates that many students find their path here, leading to a median earning of $47,185 a decade after graduation, suggesting that degrees from Winthrop can translate into solid career opportunities.

79% accepted 59% graduate $47,185 earnings

Winthrop's full profile

Southern Wesleyan University

Central, SC · 747 students · Private nonprofit

Southern Wesleyan University, located in Central, SC, embraces a small student community of 747, fostering close relationships between students and faculty. The university’s 52% graduation rate and the median earnings of $47,756 within ten years post-graduation hint at a nurturing environment that prepares students for the workforce with valuable skills.

100% accepted 52% graduate $47,756 earnings

Southern's full profile

Francis Marion University

Florence, SC · 2,628 students · Public

Francis Marion University in Florence, SC, has a student body of 2,628 and exemplifies accessibility with an 86% acceptance rate. For many students, the university’s focus on providing a supportive environment may outweigh its 43% graduation rate, especially when considering the earning potential of $43,888 ten years after graduation.

86% accepted 43% graduate $43,888 earnings

Francis's full profile

#10

Erskine College

Due West, SC · 766 students · Private nonprofit

In the small town of Due West, SC, Erskine College serves a tight-knit community of 766 students. With a graduation rate of 47%, it may appeal to those who thrive in intimate settings where personal attention is prioritized. Graduates can expect median earnings of $53,459 a decade later, reflecting the potential for a rewarding career path even with the challenges of completing their degree.

63% accepted 47% graduate $53,459 earnings

Erskine's full profile

#11

Converse University

Spartanburg, SC · 1,173 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 54%, Converse University in Spartanburg, SC, is home to a close-knit community of about 1,173 students. The school has a strong commitment to supporting Pell Grant recipients, who make up 40% of the student body, reflecting its focus on accessibility and inclusion.

68% accepted 54% graduate $40,867 earnings

Converse's full profile

#12

Citadel Military College of South Carolina

Charleston, SC · 2,705 students · Public

Citadel Military College of South Carolina combines academic rigor with military discipline, appealing to those who thrive in structured environments. With a graduation rate of 74%, this public college in Charleston, SC, prepares its students for leadership roles, emphasizing character development alongside academics.

23% accepted 74% graduate $72,085 earnings

Citadel's full profile

#13

Lander University

Greenwood, SC · 3,397 students · Public

Lander University, located in Greenwood, SC, has an inviting atmosphere with an acceptance rate of 81% and a student body of 3,397. Despite a graduation rate of 49%, the university emphasizes creating a supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds, with 39% of its students receiving Pell Grants.

81% accepted 49% graduate $42,396 earnings

Lander's full profile

#14

North Greenville University

Tigerville, SC · 1,819 students · Private nonprofit

North Greenville University in Tigerville, SC, caters to about 1,819 students and boasts a graduation rate of 55%. The university's welcoming environment and a commitment to student success resonate especially well with those who seek a faith-based education along with academic rigor, as evidenced by its 67% acceptance rate.

67% accepted 55% graduate $43,035 earnings

Newberry College

Newberry, SC · 1,479 students · Private nonprofit

Newberry College, located in Newberry, SC, is home to around 1,479 students and has a welcoming acceptance rate of 90%. With 49% of its students receiving Pell Grants, the college prioritizes accessibility and support for those from lower-income backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment for diverse learners.

90% accepted 45% graduate $48,040 earnings

Newberry's full profile

#16

Columbia International University

Columbia, SC · 716 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia International University, situated in Columbia, SC, has a smaller student body of 716, creating an intimate educational atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 55%, the university focuses on preparing students for a range of careers, emphasizing values and character development alongside academic achievement.

94% accepted 55% graduate $38,951 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#17

University of South Carolina-Columbia

Columbia, SC · 29,820 students · Public

At the University of South Carolina-Columbia, students join a diverse community with around 29,820 peers. Known for its engaging campus culture, this public university has a graduation rate of 78%, encouraging students to explore a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities in a vibrant city setting.

60% accepted 78% graduate $62,177 earnings

University's full profile

#18

Spartanburg Methodist College

Spartanburg, SC · 1,116 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, this private nonprofit college serves around 1,116 students, creating a tight-knit community. With a 41% graduation rate, Spartanburg Methodist College is particularly appealing to those seeking a supportive environment that encourages personal growth and academic success. The school has a significant percentage of Pell Grant recipients at 61%, highlighting its commitment to serving students from diverse financial backgrounds.

78% accepted 41% graduate $42,895 earnings

Spartanburg's full profile

#19

Charleston Southern University

Charleston, SC · 2,893 students · Private nonprofit

Charleston Southern University, located in Charleston, SC, serves a larger student population of 2,893. With an acceptance rate of 96% and a graduation rate of 48%, the university offers a welcoming environment for students from various backgrounds, aiming to foster both academic success and personal development.

96% accepted 48% graduate $45,898 earnings

Charleston's full profile

#20

Bob Jones University

Greenville, SC · 2,005 students · Private nonprofit

Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC is home to about 2,005 students and emphasizes a faith-based education. The school has a graduation rate of 67%, and its supportive environment aims to foster both academic and spiritual growth. With a dedicated faculty and a close-knit community, students enjoy a unique educational experience that integrates faith with learning, preparing them for various career paths.

67% graduate $44,354 earnings

Coker University

Hartsville, SC · 840 students · Private nonprofit

Coker University in Hartsville, SC, is a private nonprofit institution with a welcoming acceptance rate of 94%. With around 840 students, it cultivates a close-knit community where personal attention from faculty can enhance the college experience and help students thrive academically. The school has a graduation rate of 38%, which indicates that while challenges exist, there is a supportive environment for those who engage fully with their studies.

94% accepted 38% graduate $40,117 earnings

Claflin University

Orangeburg, SC · 1,706 students · Private nonprofit

Claflin University in Orangeburg, SC, stands out for its commitment to student success, with a graduation rate of 50%, reflecting a supportive academic community that encourages persistence. This private nonprofit institution serves approximately 1,706 students, providing a nurturing environment for those pursuing higher education. The focus on academic achievement and personal growth makes Claflin appealing for students eager to engage in a vibrant campus life.

65% accepted 50% graduate $40,304 earnings

Claflin's full profile

#23

University of South Carolina Aiken

Aiken, SC · 2,962 students · Public

Located in Aiken, SC, the University of South Carolina Aiken serves nearly 3,000 students and offers a welcoming and engaging atmosphere. While the graduation rate is 40%, the institution's median earnings of $45,603 a decade after graduation highlight the potential for students to secure rewarding careers despite the challenges many may face in completing their degrees.

79% accepted 40% graduate $45,603 earnings

University's full profile

#24

University of South Carolina-Upstate

Spartanburg, SC · 4,038 students · Public

University of South Carolina-Upstate in Spartanburg, SC, caters to over 4,000 students and prides itself on inclusivity with a 67% acceptance rate. The school provides a unique chance to engage in a diverse learning environment while benefiting from a median earning of $48,587 ten years post-graduation, which reflects the potential for solid career outcomes for its graduates.

67% accepted 43% graduate $48,587 earnings

University's full profile

#25

South Carolina State University

Orangeburg, SC · 2,934 students · Public

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 83%, South Carolina State University draws a diverse group of students eager to pursue their education in a supportive environment. The university is situated in Orangeburg, SC, and has a vibrant campus life that fosters community among its nearly 3,000 students. This commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its 70% Pell Grant recipient rate, indicating strong support for low-income students.

83% accepted 33% graduate $38,262 earnings

Anderson University

Anderson, SC · 3,183 students · Private nonprofit

Anderson University is home to a vibrant community of 3,183 students in Anderson, SC. With a graduation rate of 67%, students here have a solid support system that guides them toward success, resulting in a median earning of $42,101 ten years after graduation. This suggests that graduates leave well-prepared for their careers, despite the competitive job market.

55% accepted 67% graduate $42,101 earnings

Anderson's full profile

#27

Greenville Technical College

Greenville, SC · 8,916 students · Public

Greenville Technical College serves as an accessible public option for students in Greenville, SC, with a substantial enrollment of nearly 9,000. Though the graduation rate is only 19%, the college offers a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for immediate employment, providing practical skills that can lead to good job prospects right after graduation. The college's focus on technical education can be particularly appealing for those looking to enter the workforce quickly.

19% graduate $39,473 earnings

Greenville's full profile

#28

University of South Carolina Beaufort

Bluffton, SC · 2,052 students · Public

The University of South Carolina Beaufort, set in Bluffton, SC, offers a unique experience for its 2,052 students, particularly with a graduation rate of 36%. Emphasizing accessibility, 40% of students receive Pell Grants, showcasing the university's dedication to providing opportunities for students from varied economic backgrounds.

73% accepted 36% graduate $48,088 earnings

University's full profile

#29

Columbia College

Columbia, SC · 1,343 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Columbia, SC, Columbia College is a private nonprofit institution that emphasizes a supportive educational environment, with a notable graduation rate of 45%. With 1,343 students, the college fosters connections among peers and faculty, providing a personalized approach to higher education. This focus on community can be especially beneficial for students who thrive in smaller settings and value close relationships with their professors.

94% accepted 45% graduate $41,338 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#30

Voorhees University

Denmark, SC · 440 students · Private nonprofit

Voorhees University, a private nonprofit institution in Denmark, SC, is home to a close-knit community of around 440 students. The school’s 40% graduation rate reflects its commitment to student success, with a supportive atmosphere that helps students navigate their academic journeys. This environment is particularly conducive for those who thrive in smaller settings where faculty can provide personalized attention.

40% graduate $35,339 earnings

Voorhees's full profile

#31

Benedict College

Columbia, SC · 1,536 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Columbia, SC, Benedict College serves around 1,536 students and emphasizes creating a supportive and engaging campus culture. With a 96% acceptance rate, the college is open to a wide range of applicants, making it a viable option for those who want to pursue higher education in a nurturing environment. Despite a relatively low graduation rate of 23%, the commitment to student development remains a focal point of the college’s mission.

96% accepted 23% graduate $31,902 earnings

Benedict's full profile

#32

Morris College

Sumter, SC · 383 students · Private nonprofit

Morris College, a private nonprofit institution in Sumter, SC, has a small student body of about 383, creating an intimate learning environment. With a graduation rate of just 19%, it's clear that the college faces challenges in helping students complete their degrees. However, this setting can be ideal for students who prefer personalized attention and a community-oriented approach to learning.

19% graduate $30,614 earnings

Morris's full profile

When examining the data, a notable pattern emerges between Clemson University and Furman University. While Clemson graduates enjoy higher earnings at $71,513, Furman students face a significantly higher net price of $30,308. This illustrates how a higher cost can impact overall financial outcomes, making it essential for students to weigh the return on investment when selecting a program.

After reviewing the rankings, the next step is to align this data with personal priorities. Consider factors such as location, program fit, campus culture, and financial constraints. If earning potential is your top priority, schools like Clemson and Citadel might be more appealing, while Wofford could be a better fit for those who value a strong graduation rate without as much debt.

The stakes are high when it comes to selecting a master's program. As families navigate these choices, the data suggests that the right decision can lead to a stable future. With an average earnings gap of nearly $10,000 between top programs and the overall average, this decision can have lasting implications on financial stability and career success.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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