At $9,283/yr net price, University of South Carolina-Sumter graduates earn $42,437/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $8,437/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $9,283 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $37,132 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $42,437/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$8,437/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 36.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $6,024/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $7,692/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,803/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $13,369/yr |
| $110,001+ | $14,270/yr |
The Risk Factor
36.1% of students at University of South Carolina-Sumter graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
University of South Carolina-Sumter offers solid financial returns for a two-year public college, with graduates earning a median $42,437 ten years after enrollment against just $9,283 in annual costs. Your total investment stays manageable with median debt of only $9,250, making this one of the more affordable paths to career advancement in South Carolina.
The low graduation rate of 36% poses the biggest financial risk here. If you don't complete your program, you lose both time and money without gaining the credentials that drive higher earnings. Success depends heavily on your commitment to finishing what you start.
This school makes financial sense if you need an affordable entry point to higher education or specific career training that doesn't require a four-year degree. The combination of low costs and decent post-graduation earnings works particularly well for students planning to transfer to complete a bachelor's degree elsewhere or those seeking direct workforce entry.
You should look elsewhere if you need substantial financial aid, since only 16% of students receive assistance. The limited aid availability means you'll likely pay most costs out of pocket or through loans. Students requiring extensive support services or those uncertain about their academic direction might find better value at institutions with higher completion rates and more complete student support systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of South Carolina-Sumter worth the cost compared to other colleges?
With a net price of $9,283 and 10-year earnings of $42,437, USC-Sumter offers affordable tuition but below-average earning potential. The low debt load of $9,250 helps offset the modest salary outcomes.
What is the graduation rate at University of South Carolina-Sumter and does it affect value?
USC-Sumter has a 36% graduation rate, which is concerning for return on investment. Students who don't graduate often still carry debt without the degree benefits.
How much debt do University of South Carolina-Sumter graduates typically have?
Graduates carry a median debt of $9,250, which is relatively low compared to national averages. This manageable debt load is one of the school's main financial advantages.
Which programs at University of South Carolina-Sumter have the best job prospects?
As a two-year branch campus, USC-Sumter primarily offers associate degrees and transfer programs. Students planning to transfer to the main Columbia campus for bachelor's degrees typically see better long-term earning potential.