5 Cheapest Online Colleges in South Carolina

5 Cheapest Online Colleges in South Carolina
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • The cheapest accredited colleges and universities in South Carolina offer the same financial aid and scholarship opportunities as traditional on-campus programs.
  • It is important that the online college you choose still aligns with your objectives, schedule preferences, and learning goals.
  • An online college in South Carolina can be affordable and offers flexibility in scheduling, which makes it a perfect option for busy working professionals.

Cheapest Online Colleges in South Carolina in 2025

  1. Coastal Carolina University
    +2
  2. Winthrop University
    +3
  3. Charleston Southern University
    +1
  4. Southern Wesleyan University
    –2
  5. Limestone University
    –4

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

In 2025, the top ten schools in our ranking of the best and cheapest online colleges in South Carolina saw a substantial amount of movement. Winthrop University gained the most ranking positions as the university is making significant enhancements for the 2025 school year, focusing on campus facilities, technology, and academic spaces to enrich the student experience. Major projects include residence hall upgrades with new HVAC systems and accessibility renovations, Wi-Fi improvements across key buildings, and classroom updates with modern technology and furniture.

A new virtual and augmented reality teaching lab in Owens Hall is set to open in the fall, fostering innovative learning. Infrastructure upgrades, such as the demolition of outdated high-rise buildings and the realignment of Alumni Drive, aim to improve campus safety and aesthetics.

Additionally, renovations to iconic structures like the Kinard Building and Stewart House reflect the university’s commitment to maintaining its historic charm while advancing modern functionality. These initiatives demonstrate Winthrop’s dedication to creating a dynamic and supportive environment for students.

There are an overwhelming amount of affordable colleges in South Carolina, and scrolling through each of their web pages to find the perfect online institute is hectic. Lower fees, quality issues, good reputation, and accreditation are hard-to-find traits in every institute.

We have created a comprehensive list of the cheapest online colleges in South Carolina to help you turn your dream into a reality.

Woman sitting on the floor while taking notes and using her laptop

5 Cheapest Online Colleges in South Carolina

Before Covid-19, a third of education was entirely online. The numbers spiked when the pandemic hit, and people got to know the true potential of online colleges. Bay View Analytics conducted a survey that concluded that 46% of students strongly agreed to take some courses in a fully online format.

This sudden surge was possible only due to high-quality education. So, when searching for the cheapest online colleges in South Carolina, we didn’t ignore curriculum standards. On top of that, we considered cost, the digital platform used, and the institute’s environment to get a perfect list.

The following five colleges are the ones that can offer high-standard education in South Carolina at affordable fees:

  1. #1

    Coastal Carolina University

    Conway , SC
    #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Carolina 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in South Carolina 2025 #5 Best Public Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #5 Cheap Colleges in South Carolina in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1105/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Coastal Carolina University

    Cost of Degree: $11,640
    Expenses: $16,778
    Starting Salary: $44,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Coastal Carolina University

    • Acceptance rate: 79%
    • Graduation rate: 37%
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Tuition: $487 per credit hour
    • Students-faculty Ratio: 16:1
    • Focus area: Health Care Administration/Management, Marketing Management, Resort Management

    What Do We Love About Coastal Carolina University?

    Coastal Carolina University is a public university established in 1954. It is located in Conway, South Carolina, near the popular tourist destination of Myrtle Beach. The university offers more than 115 undergraduate and 30 graduate degree programs in various fields of study.

    Coastal Carolina University is also a national sea-grant institution and owns part of Waties Island. Its mascot is the Chanticleer, a proud and fierce rooster from Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. The university’s motto is Ex Libertate Veritas, which means “From Liberty, Truth.”

    • Coastal Carolina University is best for students who: If you are looking for a quality education combining theory and practice, this university is a good cheap option.
    • Coastal Carolina University isn’t suitable for students who: Although CCU offers a lot of programs, most of them are either hybrid or campus-based.  

    Coastal Carolina University’s Online Degrees

    BSBA in Hospitality And Tourism Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Event Planning
    • Sustainable Resort Development
    • Tourism Sales
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Winthrop University

    Rock Hill , SC
    #7 Best Public Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #7 Cheap Colleges in South Carolina in 2025 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Carolina 2024 #10 Best Colleges in South Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1087/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Winthrop University

    Cost of Degree: $15,956
    Expenses: $15,296
    Starting Salary: $39,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Winthrop University

    • Acceptance Rate: 70%
    • Graduation Rate: 48%
    • Accreditation: Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Tuition: $639 per credit hour
    • Student-faculty ratio: 12:1
    • Focus area: Accounting, Applied Software Development, Business Administration, Biology Education

    What Do We Love About Winthrop University?

    Winthrop University is a public university in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Established in 1886 as a women’s college, it is now a co-educational institution offering more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of study. The university aims to be a national model for a student-centered university experience.

    It also has five schools and colleges that provide academic excellence and innovation. These include the College of Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, Education, and College of Visual and Performing Arts.

    • Winthrop University is best for students who: It’s perfect for students who want to pursue a well-rounded education that prepares them for personal and professional success.
    • Winthrop University isn’t suitable for students who: Although it’s a good option, tuition fees might not fall into everyone’s budget. It’s the most expensive option on the list.
    Compare school
    3. Students sitting on an outdoor cafe while looking at the same laptop screen during their study session
  4. #3

    Charleston Southern University

    Charleston , SC
    #5 Best Christian Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #9 Best Small Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in South Carolina #5 Best Online MBA Programs in South Carolina
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $30K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1055/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Charleston Southern University

    Cost of Degree: $31,030
    Starting Salary: $40,600

    Overview of Charleston Southern University

    • Acceptance rate: 87%
    • Graduation rate: 34%
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Tuition: $515 per credit hour
    • Student-faculty ratio: 12:1
    • Focus area: Health Care Administration, Project Management, Business Administration, Management and Operations, Criminal Justice and Corrections

    What Do We Love About Charleston Southern University?

    Charleston Southern University is a private Christian university founded in 1964. It is affiliated with the South Carolina Baptist Convention and offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate programs. With their full 7-week courses, most students can complete their degrees in 24 months.

    Some popular programs include business, education, criminal justice, computer science, cyber security, nursing, physical therapy, and physician assistant.

    • Charleston Southern University is best for students who: Want to pursue a Christian education in South Carolina that prepares them for leadership and service in their chosen fields with affordable tuition and generous financial aid.
    • Charleston Southern University isn’t suitable for students who: You might not find the diversity of program offerings compared to other options on the list.  

    Charleston Southern University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Hospitality And Tourism Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resources
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Computer And Information Sciences
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BT in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Professional Studies
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #4

    Southern Wesleyan University

    Central , SC
    #10 Best Grad Schools in South Carolina 2025 #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in South Carolina 2025 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in South Carolina #11 Best Online MBA Programs in South Carolina
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $28K

    Acceptance

    51%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1086/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Southern Wesleyan University

    Cost of Degree: $27,870
    Expenses: $14,039
    Starting Salary: $46,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Southern Wesleyan University

    • Acceptance rate: 52%
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Tuition fees: $450 per credit hour
    • Student-faculty ratio: 12:1
    • Focus area: Business Administration, Early Childhood and Family Studies, Human Services, Psychology

    What Do We Love About Wesleyan University?

    Southern Wesleyan University is a private Christian university founded in 1906. It offers over 40 undergraduate and graduate arts, sciences, business, education, and religion programs. The university also has a robust online presence and flexible and affordable online courses and degrees.

    Southern Wesleyan University is committed to providing a Christ-centered education integrating faith and learning. Apart from a vibrant campus life, with various clubs, sports, ministries, and service opportunities, the institute also has a rich musical and artistic heritage. You will benefit from the small class sizes, the caring faculty, and the supportive community.

    • Southern Wesleyan University is best for students who: If you are looking for a quality Christian education that prepares you for your career and calling, this university can be a great choice.
    • Southern Wesleyan University isn’t suitable for students who: If you prefer a more secular and diverse environment, this university may not be the best fit for you.

    Southern Wesleyan University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood And Family Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood And Family Studies Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    6. Man intently reading a book while sitting cross legged on a sofa
  6. #5

    Limestone University

    Gaffney , SC
    #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in South Carolina #12 Best Online Colleges in South Carolina 2024 #23 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    25%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Limestone University

    Cost of Degree: $27,500
    Expenses: $14,259
    Starting Salary: $41,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Limestone College

    • Acceptance Rate: 90%
    • Graduation Rate: 21%
    • Accreditation: SACSCOC
    • Financial Aid: Yes
    • Tuition: $479 per credit hour
    • Student-faculty ratio: 11:1
    • Focus area: Social Work, Business Administration, Management Operations.

    What Do We Love About Limestone College?

    Limestone College was the first women’s college in South Carolina, founded in 1845. While the institute has an acclaimed professional curriculum for every degree, its roots go deep in the liberal arts and Christian principles sector. The fact that it offers 57 undergraduate majors depicts its focus on diversity.

    Academic programs are classified into three separate colleges around the institute. They are the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, and the College of Health, Education, and Behavior.

    • Limestone College is best for students who: If you are a blood relative of a military person, LC can be a good option for you as it offers a 10% military discount.
    • Limestone College isn’t suitable for students who: The lower graduation rate of LC depicts competitiveness of the educational journey, which might not be a good indicator for students with average academics.

    Limestone University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Economics
    • Finance
    • General
    • Law
    • Management
    • Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resources Training And Development
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Science
    Degree Concentrations
    • Computer And Information Systems Security
    • Information Technology
    • Programming
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Law
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

Related Questions

Are online programs worth the same as on-campus ones in SC?

Yes, online programs in South Carolina are valued the same as on-campus ones. However, some courses that require practical work might not be suitable for the online learning model. It’s consistently good practice to check the availability of your desired program at your dream university before deciding.

How can I apply to Southern Wesleyan University’s online programs?

Southern Wesleyan University has a simple and convenient online application process. You can complete the online application form on their website and submit the required documents, such as transcripts, test scores, and references. You can also contact an enrollment counselor for assistance and guidance.

Does Winthrop University have any special requirements for international students?

Unlike many other institutes, Winthrop University requires no recommendation letter from its students. However, students must pass the TOEFL exam and have its certificate to secure admission.

Conclusion

The five institutes listed above are affordable online colleges in South Carolina that offer quality programs in various fields of study. Online education is an excellent option for students who want to pursue their academic goals while pursuing their professional or personal commitments.

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