University of South Carolina-Columbia vs Clemson University vs College of Charleston
This page compares University of South Carolina-Columbia, Clemson University, and College of Charleston — three of the largest and best-known bachelor's-granting institutions in South Carolina. University of South Carolina-Columbia has the largest enrollment (29,820). Ten years after enrollment, median earnings are highest at Clemson University ($71,513). Highlighted cells mark the most favorable value in each row.
Side-by-side metrics
Data from College Scorecard institution-level records. Lower is better for tuition, net price, and debt; higher is better for earnings, graduation, enrollment, and admission selectivity where shown.
| Metric | University of South Carolina-Columbia | Clemson University | College of Charleston |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sector | Public | Public | Public |
| In-state tuition | $12,688 | $15,554 | $12,978 |
| Average net price | $22,811 | $22,253 | $18,960 |
| Median student debt | $21,500 | $21,500 | $23,250 |
| Enrollment | 29,820 | 23,300 | 10,558 |
| Graduation rate (150% time) | 78.8% | 86.6% | 65.8% |
| Earnings 6 years after entry | $50,621 | $58,311 | $43,821 |
| Earnings 10 years after entry | $62,177 | $71,513 | $56,416 |
| Admission rate | 60.2% | 38.3% | 60.0% |
| Average SAT score | 1,297 | 1,353 | 1,247 |