College of Charleston

What are the graduation rates for students at College of Charleston?

The College of Charleston reports an overall graduation rate of 65%, placing the institution in the top 35% nationally for this measure. This figure reflects the proportion of students who complete their degrees within six years. Breaking down by gender, 61% of men and 67% of women graduate, with men's rate also in the top 35% and women slightly lower but still within the top 40% compared to peers.

Additionally, the four-year graduation rate stands at 56%, which is considered high and ranks in the top 30% of institutions. This suggests that more than half of the students complete their bachelor's degrees within the traditional timeframe. The six-year graduation rate confirms the six-year overall figure, also rated as average and within the top 35% percentile. Freshman retention is another important factor indicating institutional success; College of Charleston maintains an 82% retention rate, meaning a strong majority of first-year students continue to their second year, with this performance again in the top 35% of similar colleges.

These data points together highlight that the College of Charleston sustains graduation and retention levels above many comparable institutions, demonstrating effectiveness in supporting students through to degree completion. While no specific graduation rates by major are available, the general outcomes suggest broadly consistent student success across programs.

What is the earning potential for graduates at College of Charleston?

At College of Charleston, graduates' earning potential varies significantly depending on the field of study, reflecting a range of career paths and industries. Among the highest earners are those with degrees in Computer and Information Sciences, General, with an average income of $56,600. This is followed by graduates in Finance and Financial Management Services who earn around $47,506, indicating strong opportunities in business-related sectors.

Other degrees in business such as Marketing and Accounting and Related Services also provide solid earnings, reaching approximately $41,619 and $41,151 respectively. Those who completed studies in Business Administration, Management and Operations and International Business earn roughly $38,896 and $38,823, presenting competitive salaries for business-oriented students.

In the realm of technology, Information Science/Studies graduates earn about $42,638, while those in Computer Software and Media Applications earn significantly less, around $26,496, showing diverse returns even within tech disciplines.

The communications field offers moderate earnings, with Communication and Media Studies graduates making $36,857. Education-related programs such as Special Education and Teaching and Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, provide salaries near $35,977 and $35,667, which may appeal to those focused on educational careers despite lower income relative to business and technology sectors.

Degrees in the sciences and humanities generally show earnings ranging from about $21,033 to $30,605. Political Science and Government stands out on the higher end at $30,605, closely matched by Historic Preservation and Conservation at $30,387 and Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at $29,551. Public Health graduates earn $27,973, while Psychology and Sociology yield closer to $26,500.

Humanities and arts-related degrees tend to offer more modest compensation. English Language and Literature graduates earn around $25,211, with Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft close behind at $25,255. Fine and Studio Arts graduates see an average of $25,077, while Romance Languages and Literatures provide roughly $23,829. Ecological Biology and Anthropology fall in the lower range with average incomes of $23,504 and $21,033 respectively.

Overall, those pursuing degrees in technology and business fields at College of Charleston are more likely to experience higher earning outcomes, whereas graduates in arts, humanities, and some social sciences typically encounter more modest financial returns after graduation.