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Best Value Accounting and Related Services Colleges in South Carolina

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Francis Marion University delivers the lowest net cost for accounting programs at $13,451, while University of South Carolina graduates earn $53,358 annually, creating a striking 14-point spread between affordability and earning potential. The state's 20 accounting programs span from $13,451 to nearly $30,000 in net costs, with public universities claiming four of the top five value positions. South Carolina's expanding automotive sector, anchored by BMW's Spartanburg operations and Volvo's Berkeley County facility, creates steady demand for cost accounting and financial analysis roles. Clemson leads in graduation rates at 87.9%, though its $22,112 net cost reflects the premium for higher completion odds. Private institutions show mixed results, with Bob Jones University producing $46,589 earners at a $17,529 net cost, while Furman's $29,997 expense yields $42,682 in graduate earnings. The LIFE Scholarship's $5,000 annual benefit makes in-state public options particularly attractive, with USC Columbia offering the strongest earning potential despite higher costs.
24
Programs
$11,081 – $29,997
Net Price Range
$41,122
Avg. Program Earnings
54.6%
Avg. Graduation Rate

24 Accounting and Related Services Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $13,451 $38,649 $11,160 42.7% 82.9%
2 $13,742 $38,597 $11,640 50.8% 78.6%
3 $17,529 $46,589 $23,400 69.6%
4 $19,518 $43,519 $12,978 65.0% 75.7%
5 $24,532 $53,358 $12,688 77.7% 64.1%
6 $22,112 $45,919 $15,554 87.9% 43.0%
7 $20,612 $41,789 $24,650 54.9% 76.1%
8 $22,134 $44,407 $13,920
9 $18,268 $36,141 $11,060 29.4% 83.9%
10 $21,955 $39,927 $31,030 48.6% 86.8%
11 $28,183 $45,852 $33,580 71.0% 45.4%
12 $29,997 $42,682 $58,312 81.5% 67.0%
13 $23,650 $28,598 $21,450 53.5% 98.1%
14 $28,984 $29,685 $54,100 80.8% 60.2%
15 $21,232 $17,046 49.1% 78.0%
16 $21,002 $12,570 72.8% 98.6%
17 $19,712 $23,096 47.1% 55.6%
18 $19,968 $27,870 52.0% 51.2%
19 $20,351 $30,050 44.4% 75.3%
20 $17,781 $18,000 21.1% 67.8%
21 $20,899 $43,300 61.9% 59.4%
22 $13,725 $11,583 42.4% 78.6%
23 $15,411 $12,630 37.8%
24 $11,081 $14,304 13.2% 43.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $40,000 gap between lowest and highest costs?

Francis Marion University costs $13,451 annually compared to Furman's $29,997, reflecting the public versus private divide. Public institutions benefit from state funding, while private colleges rely on tuition revenue. Furman's 81.5% graduation rate and liberal arts focus command premium pricing. The gap widens further when considering that Francis Marion's in-state tuition starts at just $11,160.

How do South Carolina accounting graduates compare in earnings potential?

USC Columbia leads with $53,358 average earnings, nearly double Columbia College's $28,598 output. The $24,760 earnings spread reflects program quality, alumni networks, and career services effectiveness. Bob Jones University produces strong $46,589 earners despite moderate costs. Most programs cluster between $36,000 and $46,000 in graduate earnings.

Does higher cost guarantee better graduation rates in accounting?

Clemson's 87.9% graduation rate at $22,112 net cost proves expensive doesn't always mean most successful. Furman costs $29,997 but graduates 81.5% of students, while Bob Jones achieves 69.6% completion at just $17,529. Francis Marion's 42.7% rate reflects its open access mission. Private institutions generally show stronger completion rates than public counterparts.

Where do accounting graduates find jobs in South Carolina's economy?

BMW's Spartanburg plant and Volvo's Charleston operations require cost accountants and financial analysts for manufacturing oversight. Tourism companies along the coast need accounting support for seasonal revenue management. The Port of Charleston creates opportunities in logistics and international trade accounting. Regional banks and credit unions throughout the state maintain steady entry-level hiring.

What makes public universities the better value for accounting degrees?

Four of the five lowest-cost programs come from public institutions, with net costs under $25,000. The LIFE Scholarship reduces expenses by $5,000 annually for qualifying in-state students. USC Columbia combines reasonable $24,532 costs with top earnings potential at $53,358. Public universities also maintain strong regional employer connections and alumni networks throughout South Carolina.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.