South Carolina State University

What are the graduation rates for students at South Carolina State University?

Graduation rates at South Carolina State University are notably low compared to national standards. The overall graduation rate stands at 29%, placing the university in the bottom 10% of institutions nationally. This indicates significant challenges in student retention and completion within the expected timeframes.

When broken down by gender, male students graduate at an even lower rate of 21%, also within the bottom 10%, while female students fare somewhat better at 39%, though this remains in the bottom 15% nationally. These disparities highlight differences in academic outcomes between men and women at the university.

The four-year graduation rate is particularly low at only 14%, again placing South Carolina State University in the lowest decile nationally. Extending the timeframe to six years, the graduation rate increases to 29%, yet still remains very low relative to other institutions. This suggests that even with additional time, a substantial portion of the student body is unable to complete their degrees.

Retention rates reinforce these graduation statistics, with just 59% of students returning after their first year. This rate falls into the bottom 15% nationally, indicating that many students leave the university before progressing significantly toward their degrees.

What is the earning potential for graduates at South Carolina State University?

Graduates from South Carolina State University experience a range of earning potentials depending on their field of study. Among the degrees listed, those in mechanical engineering related technologies and technicians have some of the highest reported earnings, with graduates earning an average of $41,941. This suggests that technical and engineering-related programs may offer stronger financial returns for students entering the workforce.

Other notable fields include criminal justice and corrections, where graduates typically earn around $28,987, and business administration, management, and operations degrees with average earnings near $29,870. These figures indicate solid earning opportunities for those pursuing careers in law enforcement, public service, and business management.

In the social sciences and related areas, graduates in psychology tend to earn about $24,764, while those in social work have average earnings of $26,194. These values reflect moderate income prospects for students drawn to occupations in human services, behavioral health, and counseling.

Teacher education and professional development, specific subject areas, show an average earning around $21,752, which can serve as a useful benchmark for prospective educators considering the university. Graduates in biology have earnings reported near $20,692, while family and consumer sciences/human sciences graduates make close to $17,756.

Communication and media studies alumni earn approximately $17,125, illustrating modest income levels in these creative and informational sectors. Overall, South Carolina State University offers a variety of degree paths with differing financial outcomes, highlighting the importance of aligning academic choices with career goals and earning potential.