Columbia College: Is It Worth It?
Columbia, South Carolina · Private Nonprofit · Website
ROI Score
4.6
Net Price/Year
$18,408
avg with financial aid
10yr Earnings
$41,338
median, all graduates
Median Debt
$22,750
at graduation
Is Columbia College Worth It?
Graduates earn a median of $41,338 per year ten years after enrollment. With an average net price of $18,408 per year, the total estimated cost for a four-year degree is approximately $73,632.
Based on median earnings, the degree typically pays for itself in approximately 1.8 years.
The median graduate leaves with $22,750 in debt, which represents about 55%of one year's earnings at the 10-year mark.
Note: These figures reflect all graduates regardless of major. Individual outcomes vary significantly by field of study, career choices, and personal circumstances.
Earnings vs. Debt
Net Price by Family Income
Admissions Snapshot
Acceptance Rate
93.9%
Avg SAT
N/A
ACT Midpoint
N/A
Enrollment
1,343
Completion & Retention
6-Year Graduation Rate
45.1%
National avg: ~60%
Retention Rate
60.4%
First-year students returning
3yr Repayment Rate
70800.0%
Grads making progress on loans
Cost Breakdown
In-State Tuition
$22,214
Out-of-State Tuition
$22,214
Avg Net Price
$18,408
After grants/scholarships
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Columbia College worth the money?
Based on federal data, Columbia College graduates earn a median of $41,338 ten years after enrollment, with a median debt of $22,750 at graduation. The ROI score is 4.6.
What do Columbia College graduates earn?
The median earnings for Columbia College graduates is $45,863 six years after enrollment and $41,338 ten years after enrollment, according to the College Scorecard.
What is the acceptance rate at Columbia College?
The acceptance rate at Columbia College is 93.9%.
How much debt do Columbia College graduates have?
The median debt at graduation for Columbia College students is $22,750.
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings data reflects median earnings 10 years after enrollment for all graduates. Debt figures reflect median debt at graduation for completers. Individual outcomes may vary.