Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 28.7%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $38,253
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $13,029
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 23:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 29.2%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $138/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Certificate | $42,682 | |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Associate | $33,993 | $9,000 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $31,133 | $10,256 |
| Health/Medical Preparatory Programs. | Certificate | $23,456 | $5,500 |
Outcomes Overview
Trident graduates earn a median of $38,253 ten years after completing their programs, while carrying manageable debt loads of $13,029. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 34% falls well below the federal benchmark of 40%. Monthly loan payments of $138 consume just 4.3% of typical graduate income. The 97.4% employment rate reflects strong demand for technical skills in Charleston's growing aerospace, maritime, and healthcare sectors. Many graduates enter fields like culinary arts, nursing, and marine technology where the college has built solid industry partnerships. With nearly all students staying in-state after graduation, they benefit from South Carolina's lower cost of living. This represents a strong return on investment for career-focused education.