College of Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina
About College of Charleston
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1770, College of Charleston is a 4-year college serving students in Charleston, South Carolina. With a tradition of academic excellence, College of Charleston prepares graduates for success in Business, Biology, Social Sciences, and more.
A Diverse Community in Charleston
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 17:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
College of Charleston is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $13,017, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
College of Charleston emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for College of Charleston students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 66% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 57% |
| First-year retention rate | 82% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $50,232 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $56,416 |
| Median debt at graduation | $23,250 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at College of Charleston
| Total enrollment | 11,926 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 10,880 |
| Graduate students | 1,046 |
| International students | 1% |
| First-generation students | 20% |
What you can study at College of Charleston
70 programs, most of them in these fields:
Business Management Marketing Support (8)
Accounting, Business Administration and Management, General, Finance, General, and more
Physical Sciences (7)
Astronomy and Astrophysics, Other, Chemistry, General, Chemistry, Other, and more
Computer Information Sciences (6)
Computer and Information Sciences, Other, Computer and Information Sciences, General, Computer Software and Media Applications, Other, and more
Education (6)
Early Childhood Education and Teaching, Elementary Education and Teaching, Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching, and more
Social Sciences (6)
Anthropology, General, Archeology, Economics, General, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (6)
Art History, Criticism and Conservation, Dance, General, Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General, and more
Area Ethnic Cultural Gender Group Studies (5)
African-American/Black Studies, International/Globalization Studies, Jewish/Judaic Studies, and more
Foreign Languages (5)
Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General, French Language and Literature, German Language and Literature, and more
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