5 Cheapest Grad Schools in South Carolina

5 Cheapest Grad Schools in South Carolina
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • Public colleges in South Carolina offer the cheapest tuition rates.
  • Residents of South Carolina pay significantly less to attend a grad school in the state than non-residents pay.
  • The cheapest grad schools from our list offer a solid opportunity for low student-to-faculty ratios.

Cheapest Grad Schools in South Carolina

Sort by:
  1. University of South Carolina Beaufort
  2. Francis Marion University
  3. University of South Carolina Upstate
  4. South Carolina State University
  5. Lander University
  1. South Carolina State University
  2. Francis Marion University
  3. University of South Carolina Upstate
  4. Lander University
  5. University of South Carolina Beaufort
  1. South Carolina State University 84%
  2. Francis Marion University 83%
  3. University of South Carolina Beaufort 80%
  4. University of South Carolina Upstate 79%
  5. Lander University 67%
  1. South Carolina State University 17 to 1
  2. Lander University 16 to 1
  3. University of South Carolina Upstate 15 to 1
  4. University of South Carolina Beaufort 14 to 1
  5. Francis Marion University 13 to 1
  1. University of South Carolina Upstate $11,208
  2. Lander University $10,700
  3. Francis Marion University $10,384
  4. University of South Carolina Beaufort $10,344
  5. South Carolina State University $9,528
  1. University of South Carolina Upstate $13,734
  2. University of South Carolina Beaufort $13,734
  3. Francis Marion University $10,612
  4. South Carolina State University $9,928
  5. Lander University $9,810
  1. Lander University
  2. South Carolina State University
  3. University of South Carolina Upstate
  4. Francis Marion University
  5. University of South Carolina Beaufort
  1. University of South Carolina Beaufort
  2. Lander University
  3. University of South Carolina Upstate
  4. Francis Marion University
  5. South Carolina State University
  1. Lander University 67%
  2. University of South Carolina Upstate 79%
  3. University of South Carolina Beaufort 80%
  4. Francis Marion University 83%
  5. South Carolina State University 84%
  1. Francis Marion University 13 to 1
  2. University of South Carolina Beaufort 14 to 1
  3. University of South Carolina Upstate 15 to 1
  4. Lander University 16 to 1
  5. South Carolina State University 17 to 1
  1. South Carolina State University $9,528
  2. University of South Carolina Beaufort $10,344
  3. Francis Marion University $10,384
  4. Lander University $10,700
  5. University of South Carolina Upstate $11,208
  1. Lander University $9,810
  2. South Carolina State University $9,928
  3. Francis Marion University $10,612
  4. University of South Carolina Upstate $13,734
  5. University of South Carolina Beaufort $13,734

Are you an undergraduate looking for high-quality education at an affordable tuition fee in South Carolina? Finding an accredited institute with a high ranking can become hectic. It isn’t easy to explore every college in South Carolina to find inexpensive tuition and a remarkable curriculum.

That’s why we have researched and listed five of the cheapest grad schools in South Carolina. These institutes are selected after an in-depth comparison of tuition cost, curriculum quality, and teaching staff expertise. 

Graduate students listening to a lecture in a classroom

5 Cheapest Grad Schools in South Carolina

Some universities in South Carolina offer affordable tuition fees for in-state students. Even if you aren’t living in the state, schools’ financial aid and special scholarships can help you save some bucks.

We have explored many South Carolina grad schools and analyzed their study schedule, education costs, and student accessibility. Here are our findings that can help you make informed decisions.

  1. #1

    University of South Carolina Beaufort

    Bluffton , SC
    #15 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #18 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students #19 Best Online Colleges in South Carolina 2024 #25 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of South Carolina Beaufort

    Cost of Degree: $10,730
    Expenses: $15,131
    Starting Salary: $40,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of the University of South Carolina Beaufort

    • Acceptance Rate: 80%
    • Graduation Rate: 20%
    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
    • In-state Tuition: $6,867 per semester
    • Out-of-state Tuition: $14,880 per semester
    • Student/faculty Ratio: 14:1

    What Do We Love About the University of South Carolina Beaufort?

    The University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB) offers a dynamic educational experience in the Lowcountry. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, USCB provides personalized instructions and a supportive learning environment. The university’s commitment to hands-on learning is evident through ample opportunities for research, internships, and community service.

    Every USCB campus offers a distinct experience. The main campus in Bluffton features state-of-the-art laboratories and a vibrant campus life. The historic Beaufort campus sits on the water and fosters an artistic community. With 85% of students receiving financial aid, USCB is one of the cheapest grad colleges in South California.

    • University of South Carolina Beaufort is great for students who: Students interested in fields like literature and computational sciences may find it a perfect option.  
    • University of South Carolina Beaufort might not be the best fit for students who: It may not be ideal for students who prefer diverse fields, as USCB has very few graduate programs.

    University of South Carolina Beaufort’s Online Degrees

    BS in Hospitality Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Health
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Francis Marion University

    Florence , SC
    #6 Best Small Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #8 Best Public Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #8 Cheap Colleges in South Carolina in 2025 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Carolina 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    39%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1006/18

    Career Outlook for degree at Francis Marion University

    Cost of Degree: $11,170
    Expenses: $14,330
    Starting Salary: $36,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Francis Marion University

    • Acceptance Rate: 83%
    • Graduation Rate: 21%
    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
    • In-state Tuition: $5,306 per semester
    • Out-of-state Tuition: $10,612 per semester
    • Student/faculty Ratio: 13:1

    What Do We Love About Francis Marion University?

    Francis Marion University is a public university located near Florence, South Carolina. Named in honor of American Revolutionary War Brigadier General Francis Marion, the university’s history dates back to 1957.

    It has grown from a freshman college in a basement room of the Florence County Library to a full-fledged university with a student body of approximately 4,000. The university is segmented into three schools: the School of Business, the School of Education, and the School of Health Sciences.

    The university offers a variety of academic programs, speaker series, museum exhibits, athletics, and study-abroad opportunities.

    • Francis Marion University is great for students who: It can be a perfect option for students looking for a diverse range of academic programs in a rural setting.
    • Francis Marion University might not be the best fit for students who: Anyone preferring a smaller, more intimate campus environment may not find Francis Marion University a good fit.

    Francis Marion University’s Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    3. Man writing in a notebook
  3. #3

    University of South Carolina Upstate

    Spartanburg , SC
    #9 Best Public Colleges in South Carolina 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1050/22

    Career Outlook for degree at University of South Carolina Upstate

    Cost of Degree: $11,583
    Expenses: $15,277
    Starting Salary: $41,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of South Carolina Upstate

    • Acceptance Rate: 79%
    • Graduation Rate: 30%
    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
    • In-state Tuition: $6,867 per semester
    • Out-of-state Tuition: $14,880 per semester
    • Student/faculty Ratio: 13:1

    What Do We Love About South Carolina Upstate?

    University of South Carolina (USC) Upstate is a public institution in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Established in 1967, it has evolved from a two-year college to a complete university. The university is divided into several colleges, including the College of Arts, Social Science, and Humanities and the College of Science and Technology.

    USC Upstate offers more than 50 majors and pre-professional programs, providing students with a wide range of academic choices. The best part is that its suburban campus spans 330 acres, offering students a unique blend of academic and extracurricular opportunities.

    • South Carolina Upstate is great for students who: The university’s 70+ organizations make it perfect for athletes and students conscious about their co-curricular activities.
    • South Carolina Upstate might not be the best fit for students who: Students who are short on budget because USC Upstate is a bit expensive in terms of tuition fees compared to other Spartanburg institutes.
    Compare school
  5. #4

    South Carolina State University

    Orangeburg , SC
    #24 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #5 Best Grad Schools in South Carolina 2025 #5 Best Small Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #6 Best Public Colleges in South Carolina 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    34%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at South Carolina State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,060
    Expenses: $19,000
    Starting Salary: $32,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of South Carolina State University

    • Acceptance Rate: 84%
    • Graduation Rate: 18%
    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
    • In-state Tuition: $5,730 per semester
    • Out-of-state Tuition: $11,285 per semester
    • Student/faculty Ratio: 17:1

    What Do We Love About South Carolina State University?

    South Carolina State University (SCSU) is a historically black college and university (HBCU) that has been home to generations of scholars and leaders in various fields.

    The university’s Master of Science Degree in Transportation program (MST) is designed to equip students to understand the historical, current, and future trends in transportation systems. In addition to the MST program, SCSU offers a variety of other graduate programs.

    The university is committed to providing affordable and accessible quality master’s, baccalaureate, educational specialist, and doctoral degree programs. This commitment to accessibility and affordability makes SCSU a great choice for students seeking a high-quality education without the high cost.

    • South Carolina State University is great for students who: Students interested in understanding and addressing transportation systems from an interdisciplinary perspective can go for this university.
    • South Carolina State University might not be the best fit for students who: Graduation journey can be tough as indicated by the lower graduation rates of SCSU.
    Compare school
    6. Students wearing graduation robes and caps walking together in campus
  6. #5

    Lander University

    Greenwood , SC
    #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Carolina 2024 #10 Best Public Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #14 Best Online Colleges in South Carolina 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1070/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Lander University

    Cost of Degree: $11,700
    Expenses: $16,370
    Starting Salary: $38,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Lander University

    • Acceptance Rate: 67%
    • Graduation Rate: 31%
    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
    • In-state Tuition: $3,270 per semester
    • Out-of-state Tuition: $3,270 per semester
    • Student/Faculty Ratio: 16:1

    What Do We Love About Lander University?

    Lander University is a distinguished institution in Greenwood, South Carolina. Its graduate programs focus on practical skills and professional development, particularly in areas such as Business Administration, Education, Nursing, and Emergency Management.

    Lander’s graduate studies are known for their affordability and flexible delivery methods. It provides online programs in South Carolina that cater to the needs of working professionals. The College of Graduate & Online Studies at Lander prides itself on a comprehensive admissions process that evaluates candidates’ academic and professional achievements.

    • Lander University is great for students who: Seek a cost-effective graduate education with a strong emphasis on real-world application, preparing them for leadership roles in their chosen fields.
    • Lander University might not be the best fit for students who: Admission to Lander University requires TOEFL, IELTS, and TOEIC test scores, which may complicate the enrollment process for international students.

    Lander University’s Online Degrees

    BAS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Paralegal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Promotion And Wellness
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

Related Questions

How do I apply for financial aid at schools in SC?

Applying for financial aid at any of these South Carolina grad schools starts with filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Make sure to check each school’s specific financial aid section for any additional documents they may require. Besides, deadlines can vary, so it’s important to submit your applications early to maximize your aid eligibility.

Can I work while studying in these grad programs in SC?

Many grad students work part-time jobs, assistantships, or internships while pursuing their degrees. These opportunities provide financial support and valuable professional experience. Remember, each university has different policies and opportunities for working students, including on-campus positions.

How do I decide which grad school in SC is the right fit for me?

Choosing the perfect grad school involves many other factors beyond tuition costs. You need to consider the academic programs offered, faculty expertise, campus culture, location, and internship opportunities. Visiting campuses and talking to current students or alumni can provide valuable insights.

Conclusion

Choosing the right graduate school is a pivotal step in your academic and professional journey. Whether you’re looking for specialized programs or affordable courses, these options can give you a good start in choosing your dream institution.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here