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Cheapest Chemistry Colleges in South Carolina

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

Allen University stands out with the state's lowest net price for chemistry at $11,081, making quality science education accessible to students who might otherwise struggle with college costs. This private institution in Columbia contrasts sharply with options like Coker University at $18,045, creating a $7,000 annual savings opportunity. The gap between public and private options narrows significantly when considering net costs, with University of South Carolina Aiken following close behind at $11,611. South Carolina's growing automotive sector, anchored by BMW and Volvo manufacturing, creates steady demand for chemistry graduates who understand materials science and quality control processes. The state's LIFE Scholarship adds up to $5,000 for qualifying residents, potentially reducing costs even further at public institutions. With graduation rates ranging from 13.20% at Allen to 69.60% at Bob Jones University, students must weigh affordability against completion likelihood when making their choice.
26
Programs
$11,081 – $29,997
Net Price Range
$37,771
Avg. Program Earnings
52.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

26 Chemistry Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,081 $14,304 13.2% 43.4%
2 $11,611 $10,760 40.1% 75.6%
3 $13,451 $11,160 42.7% 82.9%
4 $13,725 $11,583 42.4% 78.6%
5 $13,742 $11,640 50.8% 78.6%
6 $14,501 $11,700 48.8% 67.4%
7 $16,353 $15,956 61.2% 69.8%
8 $17,529 $23,400 69.6%
9 $17,781 $18,000 21.1% 67.8%
10 $18,045 $31,854 34.6% 94.1%
11 $18,268 $11,060 29.4% 83.9%
12 $19,518 $12,978 65.0% 75.7%
13 $19,712 $23,096 47.1% 55.6%
14 $19,968 $27,870 52.0% 51.2%
15 $20,351 $30,050 44.4% 75.3%
16 $20,415 $27,500 27.6% 89.5%
17 $20,899 $43,300 61.9% 59.4%
18 $21,002 $12,570 72.8% 98.6%
19 $21,232 $17,046 49.1% 78.0%
20 $21,955 $31,030 48.6% 86.8%
21 $22,018 $36,710 48.6% 53.3%
22 $22,112 $15,554 87.9% 43.0%
23 $23,650 $21,450 53.5% 98.1%
24 $24,532 $12,688 77.7% 64.1%
25 $28,984 $54,100 80.8% 60.2%
26 $29,997 $58,312 81.5% 67.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Allen University's chemistry program so affordable compared to other options?

Allen University offers the lowest net price at $11,081, which reflects significant financial aid that reduces the sticker price of $14,304. This private institution provides chemistry education at a cost lower than many public universities in the state. However, students should note the 13.20% graduation rate when considering this option. The school's location in Columbia provides access to state government labs and research facilities.

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

Public universities show remarkable consistency, with net prices clustering between $11,611 and $16,353 across six institutions. University of South Carolina Aiken leads at $11,611, followed closely by Francis Marion at $13,451. The LIFE Scholarship can reduce these costs by up to $5,000 for qualifying residents. Graduation rates at public institutions range from 29.40% to 65.00%, with College of Charleston achieving the highest completion rate.

Is the earnings potential worth the investment for chemistry graduates?

Available earnings data shows a range from $32,284 at College of Charleston to $40,368 at Winthrop University, representing a 25% difference between programs. These salaries reflect entry-level positions in South Carolina's chemical, automotive, and manufacturing sectors. Graduates typically carry student debt between $25,739 and $27,000 based on available data. The state's growing industrial base, including BMW and Volvo facilities, provides multiple career pathways for chemistry majors.

Does graduation rate correlate with program cost in South Carolina chemistry programs?

The relationship between cost and graduation rates varies significantly across institutions. Bob Jones University achieves the highest graduation rate at 69.60% with a net cost of $17,529, while Allen University has the lowest cost at $11,081 but only a 13.20% completion rate. Winthrop University balances both factors well with a 61.20% graduation rate and $16,353 net cost. Public institutions generally show more predictable outcomes, with most achieving graduation rates between 40% and 50%.

Where should students focus their applications for the best value in chemistry education?

University of South Carolina Aiken offers strong value with an $11,611 net cost and 40.10% graduation rate, making it a strong public option. Francis Marion University provides another solid choice at $13,451 with a 42.70% completion rate. For students seeking higher graduation rates, College of Charleston justifies its $19,518 cost with a 65.00% completion rate and strong Charleston-area internship opportunities. The coastal location also provides access to marine chemistry and environmental research programs.

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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.