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Best Value Political Science and Government Colleges in South Carolina

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

The Citadel stands out among South Carolina's Political Science programs with a 98.58% acceptance rate yet delivers $37,856 in median earnings, the second-highest in the state. This military college approach contrasts sharply with Clemson's selective 42.98% admission rate and top earnings of $39,099. Public universities dominate the value equation here, with most charging under $16,000 in net costs while private institutions like Furman reach nearly $30,000. South Carolina's growing state government sector and expanding federal installations like Joint Base Charleston create steady demand for political science graduates. The state's LIFE Scholarship program provides up to $5,000 annually for qualifying residents, making public options even more attractive. Graduation rates vary significantly, from Clemson's impressive 87.90% to more modest outcomes at regional campuses, reflecting different student populations and academic approaches across the state's political science market.
26
Programs
$11,611 – $29,997
Net Price Range
$29,885
Avg. Program Earnings
54.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

26 Political Science and Government Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $13,742 $34,704 $11,640 50.8% 78.6%
2 $13,451 $28,598 $11,160 42.7% 82.9%
3 $13,725 $28,236 $11,583 42.4% 78.6%
4 $21,002 $37,856 $12,570 72.8% 98.6%
5 $22,112 $39,099 $15,554 87.9% 43.0%
6 $19,518 $30,988 $12,978 65.0% 75.7%
7 $21,232 $29,141 $17,046 49.1% 78.0%
8 $29,997 $36,668 $58,312 81.5% 67.0%
9 $24,532 $29,926 $12,688 77.7% 64.1%
10 $16,353 $19,227 $15,956 61.2% 69.8%
11 $20,899 $24,035 $43,300 61.9% 59.4%
12 $28,984 $20,140 $54,100 80.8% 60.2%
13 $22,018 $36,710 48.6% 53.3%
14 $19,712 $23,096 47.1% 55.6%
15 $14,501 $11,700 48.8% 67.4%
16 $20,375 $16,224 20.4%
17 $20,351 $30,050 44.4% 75.3%
18 $20,612 $24,650 54.9% 76.1%
19 $23,650 $21,450 53.5% 98.1%
20 $11,611 $10,760 40.1% 75.6%
21 $18,045 $31,854 34.6% 94.1%
22 $17,529 $23,400 69.6%
23 $18,268 $11,060 29.4% 83.9%
24 $17,781 $18,000 21.1% 67.8%
25 $21,955 $31,030 48.6% 86.8%
26 $28,183 $33,580 71.0% 45.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Citadel's Political Science program such good value despite higher costs?

The Citadel charges $21,002 in net costs but produces graduates earning $37,856 annually, creating strong return on investment. The military structure builds leadership skills highly valued in government and politics. With a 72.80% graduation rate and relatively low $20,250 debt load, students complete their degrees and enter careers with manageable financial obligations. The school's Charleston location provides internship access to state agencies and military installations.

How do public university costs compare for Political Science students in South Carolina?

Public universities range from $11,160 to $15,956 in annual tuition, with net costs between $13,451 and $24,532 after aid. Francis Marion offers the lowest net price at $13,451, while USC-Columbia reaches $24,532 despite modest tuition. The LIFE Scholarship reduces costs further for qualifying South Carolina residents. Most public programs keep total debt under $25,000, making them accessible options for middle-class families.

Does Clemson University justify its higher costs for Political Science majors?

Clemson charges $22,112 in net costs but delivers the highest graduate earnings at $39,099 annually. The 87.90% graduation rate leads all South Carolina programs, indicating strong student support and academic rigor. With selective 42.98% admissions, Clemson attracts high-achieving students who benefit from extensive alumni networks. The relatively low $20,500 average debt keeps the program financially viable despite premium pricing.

Is there a significant earnings gap between different Political Science programs?

Graduate earnings span from $19,227 at Winthrop to $39,099 at Clemson, creating a $19,872 difference in median income. Military-focused Citadel produces the second-highest earners at $37,856, while several regional universities cluster around $28,000-$30,000. Private colleges show mixed results, with Furman reaching $36,668 but Wofford dropping to $20,140. Location and program focus appear more important than public versus private status in determining outcomes.

Where do Political Science graduates find employment opportunities in South Carolina?

South Carolina's state government in Columbia employs many graduates in legislative, administrative, and policy roles. The growing automotive sector around Spartanburg and Charleston creates government relations positions with BMW, Volvo, and suppliers. Tourism industry advocacy and military contracting near bases like Joint Base Charleston offer additional career paths. Local government positions throughout the state's 46 counties provide entry-level opportunities for new graduates seeking public service careers.

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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.