Skip to main content

Cheapest Criminal Justice and Corrections Colleges in South Carolina

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

University of South Carolina-Lancaster offers Criminal Justice and Corrections training for just $9,735 net cost, making it the most affordable option in a state where private programs can exceed $21,000 annually. This $11,000 cost gap between public and private institutions reflects broader accessibility challenges in South Carolina's justice education market. The Citadel stands apart with a 72.80% graduation rate and $39,416 median earnings, demonstrating how military discipline translates to career success. South Carolina's expanding automotive manufacturing sector has increased demand for corporate security specialists and industrial safety officers, creating new pathways beyond traditional law enforcement roles. With 15 programs spanning from small liberal arts colleges to major public universities, students can choose between intimate class sizes at schools like Morris College or full research opportunities at larger institutions, all while preparing for careers in a state where tourism and manufacturing growth continues driving security employment.
20
Programs
$9,735 – $28,183
Net Price Range
$34,582
Avg. Program Earnings
45.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

20 Criminal Justice and Corrections Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $9,735 $7,558 29.5% 76.2%
2 $11,081 $14,304 13.2% 43.4%
3 $13,725 $11,583 42.4% 78.6%
4 $14,501 $11,700 48.8% 67.4%
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 $20,351 $30,050 44.4% 75.3%
10 $20,375 $16,224 20.4%
11 $20,415 $27,500 27.6% 89.5%
12 $20,612 $24,650 54.9% 76.1%
13 $21,002 $12,570 72.8% 98.6%
14 $21,232 $17,046 49.1% 78.0%
15 $21,955 $31,030 48.6% 86.8%
16 $22,134 $13,920
17 $22,886 $18,238
18 $23,650 $21,450 53.5% 98.1%
19 $24,532 $12,688 77.7% 64.1%
20 $28,183 $33,580 71.0% 45.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What accounts for the dramatic cost difference between public and private Criminal Justice programs?

Public universities like USC-Lancaster charge $9,735 net cost while private institutions average over $20,000 annually. State funding allows public schools to offer lower tuition rates, with in-state students at USC-Lancaster paying just $7,558. The LIFE Scholarship provides up to $5,000 additional support for qualifying South Carolina residents. Private colleges often include more full student services and smaller class sizes in their higher pricing structure.

How do graduation rates vary across different types of Criminal Justice programs?

Military-focused Citadel achieves a 72.80% graduation rate, significantly higher than the 29.50% rate at USC-Lancaster or 21.10% at Benedict College. Bob Jones University maintains 69.60% completion despite its religious focus, while historically black colleges show mixed results ranging from 13.20% at Allen University to 49.10% at Claflin University. Program structure and institutional support systems appear more influential than cost in determining student success.

What earning potential can graduates expect from South Carolina Criminal Justice programs?

Median earnings range from $26,353 at South Carolina State University to $39,416 for Citadel graduates. Charleston Southern graduates earn $37,568 median salary, while USC-Upstate alumni average $32,439 annually. The $13,000 earnings gap often correlates with program reputation and alumni network strength. Student debt levels vary from $18,298 at Bob Jones University to $37,000 at Benedict College.

Does acceptance rate indicate program quality in Criminal Justice education?

The Citadel accepts 98.58% of applicants yet maintains the highest graduation rate and earnings, suggesting military structure compensates for open admission. Allen University's 43.36% acceptance rate contrasts sharply with its 13.20% graduation rate, indicating selectivity alone doesn't ensure success. Most public universities accept 75-85% of applicants, balancing accessibility with academic standards. Private colleges show wider variation, from highly selective to nearly open enrollment policies.

Where do Criminal Justice graduates find employment in South Carolina's economy?

South Carolina's automotive plants including BMW and Volvo hire security specialists and safety coordinators, expanding opportunities beyond traditional law enforcement. The state's tourism industry along the coast creates demand for hospitality security and emergency management professionals. State and local government agencies remain primary employers, with starting salaries typically matching the $26,000-$32,000 range most graduates earn. Corporate investigation roles in manufacturing and logistics sectors offer higher compensation potential for qualified candidates.

More Criminal Justice and Corrections Rankings

Best Value Criminal Justice and Corrections in South Carolina Criminal Justice and Corrections Under $20,000 in South Carolina

Related

All Criminal Justice and Corrections Programs Best Colleges in South Carolina Best Criminal Justice and Corrections in South Carolina

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