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Cheapest Accounting and Related Services Colleges in South Carolina

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Allen University stands out among South Carolina's 20 accounting programs by offering the state's lowest net price at just $11,081, making higher education accessible in a field where starting salaries can reach $46,589. This $12,569 gap between the cheapest and most expensive options reflects the sharp divide between public institutions and private colleges across the state. South Carolina's growing automotive sector, anchored by BMW and Volvo manufacturing facilities, creates steady demand for accounting professionals to manage complex supply chains and international operations. The state's LIFE Scholarship program provides up to $5,000 for qualifying residents, further reducing costs at public universities like Francis Marion and USC-Upstate, where net prices hover around $13,500. Graduation rates vary dramatically, from Allen's 13.20% to Citadel's impressive 72.80%, suggesting that affordability alone doesn't guarantee completion. Bob Jones University graduates earn the highest starting salaries at $46,589, while the College of Charleston combines strong earnings potential at $43,519 with a solid 65% graduation rate.
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 In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,081 $14,304 13.2% 43.4%
2 $13,451 $11,160 42.7% 82.9%
3 $13,725 $11,583 42.4% 78.6%
4 $13,742 $11,640 50.8% 78.6%
5 $15,411 $12,630 37.8%
6 $17,529 $23,400 69.6%
7 $17,781 $18,000 21.1% 67.8%
8 $18,268 $11,060 29.4% 83.9%
9 $19,518 $12,978 65.0% 75.7%
10 $19,712 $23,096 47.1% 55.6%
11 $19,968 $27,870 52.0% 51.2%
12 $20,351 $30,050 44.4% 75.3%
13 $20,612 $24,650 54.9% 76.1%
14 $20,899 $43,300 61.9% 59.4%
15 $21,002 $12,570 72.8% 98.6%
16 $21,232 $17,046 49.1% 78.0%
17 $21,955 $31,030 48.6% 86.8%
18 $22,112 $15,554 87.9% 43.0%
19 $22,134 $13,920
20 $23,650 $21,450 53.5% 98.1%
21 $24,532 $12,688 77.7% 64.1%
22 $28,183 $33,580 71.0% 45.4%
23 $28,984 $54,100 80.8% 60.2%
24 $29,997 $58,312 81.5% 67.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Allen University's $11,081 net price so much lower than other private schools?

Allen University offers the most affordable accounting education in South Carolina at $11,081 net cost, compared to Presbyterian College's $20,899 despite both being private institutions. The school maintains this low price through substantial financial aid packages that reduce the sticker price of $14,304. However, students should consider the 13.20% graduation rate when evaluating this option. The significant cost savings may appeal to students willing to navigate the academic challenges.

How do public universities compare to private colleges for accounting program value?

Public universities like Francis Marion ($13,451) and USC-Upstate ($13,725) offer competitive net prices just $2,000-3,000 above Allen University's rock-bottom rate. Francis Marion graduates earn $38,649 annually with a respectable 42.70% graduation rate and manageable debt of $20,557. Private institutions span a much wider range, from Allen's $11,081 to Presbyterian's $20,899. The middle-tier private schools like Southern Wesleyan ($19,968) often provide better graduation rates around 52% compared to the cheapest options.

Does higher tuition correlate with better career outcomes in accounting?

Bob Jones University, with a net cost of $17,529, produces graduates earning $46,589, the highest among South Carolina accounting programs. College of Charleston students pay $19,518 but earn $43,519 with strong job prospects in the state's financial sector. However, Francis Marion offers solid value at just $13,451 with graduates earning $38,649. The relationship isn't linear, as some expensive programs don't report earnings data, making cost-benefit analysis challenging for prospective students.

Where do accounting graduates find the best job opportunities in South Carolina?

Charleston's growing financial services sector supports College of Charleston graduates who earn $43,519 annually in a city with major banking operations. The Greenville-Spartanburg corridor, home to BMW's North American headquarters, creates demand for cost accountants and financial analysts. Columbia's state government and university presence provides stable accounting opportunities for Allen University and Benedict College graduates. Francis Marion's location in Florence positions graduates well for the expanding logistics and distribution networks serving the Southeast region.

Is the 98.58% acceptance rate at Citadel misleading for accounting students?

Citadel's 98.58% acceptance rate reflects its unique military college environment rather than academic standards, as evidenced by its impressive 72.80% graduation rate. The $21,002 net cost places it in the middle range among South Carolina programs while delivering strong completion outcomes. Military discipline and structure contribute to academic success that many traditional colleges struggle to achieve. However, the regimented lifestyle and military commitments aren't suitable for all students seeking accounting degrees.

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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.