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Allen University in Columbia offers the state's most affordable Social Sciences, General program at just $11,081 net cost, though graduates earn $23,340 annually. The $10,937 price gap between Allen and second-place USC Beaufort reflects South Carolina's mix of private historically black institutions and regional public universities. With the state's growing automotive sector employing BMW and Volvo, social sciences graduates find opportunities in corporate research, human resources, and community development roles that support these major manufacturers.
6
Programs
$11,081 – $22,018
Net Price Range
$25,945
Avg. Program Earnings
38.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

6 Social Sciences, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,081 $14,304 13.2% 43.4%
2 $15,309 $10,730 38.6% 80.0%
3 $18,268 $11,060 29.4% 83.9%
4 $19,968 $27,870 52.0% 51.2%
5 $21,955 $31,030 48.6% 86.8%
6 $22,018 $36,710 48.6% 53.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the large earnings difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

USC Beaufort graduates earn $28,433 compared to Allen University's $23,340, a $5,093 difference despite Allen being cheaper by $4,228 net cost. The public university's location in the Lowcountry tourism corridor and stronger industry connections likely contribute to higher starting salaries.

How do graduation rates vary among these affordable options?

Southern Wesleyan University leads with a 52% graduation rate despite being the fourth most expensive at $19,968 net cost. In contrast, the most affordable option Allen University graduates only 13.2% of students, while mid-priced USC Beaufort achieves 38.6%.

Does the LIFE Scholarship significantly impact costs for in-state students?

The LIFE Scholarship's $5,000 maximum covers nearly half of USC Beaufort's $10,730 in-state tuition and 45% of South Carolina State's $11,060 tuition. Private institutions like Erskine at $36,710 in-state tuition see minimal impact from this state aid.

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