Best South Carolina College Values According to Money

Best South Carolina College Values According to Money

Choosing the right college to attend is a task that requires careful consideration from both parent and student. Academic programs, cost, location, and opportunities are a few factors that come to mind before even filling out an application. Finding a college worth the price tag can be especially challenging when colleges are not upfront with tuition costs, leaving families in the dark. According to Money, the prices colleges advertise may be reduced through the use of scholarships and grants, with private institutions in particular known for this practice.

In its 2024 Best Colleges roundup, Money analyzed 745 colleges in the country. Twelve South Carolina colleges were named based on alumni salaries, cost of attendance, financial aid, and graduation rates, among other factors. The compilation is intended to help determine schools where students are more likely to secure a job that pays well with manageable student debt. Here are the colleges that were mentioned in South Carolina and why:

South Carolina’s Best Colleges in 2024, According to Money

4.5 stars:

• Citadel Military College, Charleston
• Clemson University, Clemson
• Wofford College, Spartanburg

4 stars:

• Coker University, Hartsville
• College of Charleston, Charleston
• Columbia College, Columbia
• Furman University, Greenville
• Southern Wesleyan University, Central
• University of South Carolina-Columbia, Columbia
• University of South Carolina-Upstate, Spartanburg

3 stars:

• Winthrop University, Rock Hill

2.5 stars:

• Claflin University, Orangeburg

Is the American dream out of reach? Recent surveys indicate that only half of Americans believe a college degree is worth paying for, according to a Wall Street Journal-NORC poll. A Pew Research poll seconded this, showing only 29% of Americans believe college is worth the cost if student loans need to be used. Those who think college is still worth the money make up 47%, but only if loans are not needed to attend.

The reason for the change in views towards college stems from the growth in opportunities to make a good living without a bachelor’s degree, as well as the rising cost of living. Per Money, the median wealth among households headed by high school graduates increased from $12,700 in 2013 to $30,700 as of 2022. Even so, in comparison, the net worth growth among households with college degrees ranged between $46,600 to $120,200.

College consideration is also declining due to the changes in college pricing since 2001, as noted by College Board. After inflation adjustments, tuition and fees soared by 81% at public four-year colleges. In comparison, private colleges rose by 46%.

Nina Tran covers trending topics for The Greenville News. Reach her via email at ntran@gannett.com