Southeastern College-Charleston
North Charleston, SC 29406 — Private For-Profit
Value Score: 45/100 | ROI Score: -69 | Affordability Score: 35/100
Tuition (In-State): $25,080 | Out-of-State: $25,080
Acceptance Rate: 98.1% | Graduation Rate: 68.1%
Median Earnings (10yr): $30,737 | Median Debt: $9,500
Student Body Size: 225 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 67.7% | Federal Loan Rate: 83.2%
Average Faculty Salary: $6,417/month
Tuition & Affordability Analysis
In-state tuition at Southeastern College-Charleston is $25,080 per year, which is 36% below the national average for private institutions.
Out-of-state students pay $25,080/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.
Estimated four-year tuition cost: $100,320 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).
What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income
The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Southeastern College-Charleston:
- Families earning $0–$30,000: $30,328/year
- Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $36,520/year
- Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $29,900/year
- Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $37,291/year
- Families earning $110,000+: $38,014/year
Admissions Snapshot
Southeastern College-Charleston has an acceptance rate of 98.1%, placing it in the Open Admission (85%+) category.
Southeastern College-Charleston accepts the majority of applicants, making it an accessible option for students across a range of academic backgrounds.
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
68.1% of students at Southeastern College-Charleston complete their degree, 10% above the national average. This is a solid graduation rate.
Graduates of Southeastern College-Charleston earn a median salary of $30,737 ten years after enrollment, 25% below the national average.
The median student debt at graduation is $9,500, 56% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $103/month, with a total repayment of $12,360 (including $2,860 in interest).
Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.31x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.
Financial Aid Profile
67.7% of students at Southeastern College-Charleston receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 105% above the national average. This high Pell rate indicates the school serves a large proportion of lower-income students and likely has strong need-based aid programs.
83.2% of students take federal loans, 77% above the national average. This high borrowing rate means most students need loans to attend. Factor loan payments into your decision carefully.
Average faculty salary: $6,417/month, 26% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
Southeastern College-Charleston enrolls 225 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Diversity Index: 64/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.
Student body composition: White 28%, Hispanic 11%, Black 52%, Asian 0%.
Southeastern College-Charleston: High Admission Rate but Low Graduation and Earnings
- Southeastern College-Charleston: A Career Launchpad or a Financial Stumble?
- Decoding Your Future: What Southeastern College-Charleston Graduates Earn
- Beyond the Classroom: Life and Opportunities After Southeastern College-Charleston
Report Card: Overall Grade D+
Southeastern College-Charleston receives an overall grade of D+ based on six dimensions:
- Academics: D+
- Value: F
- Outcomes: D
- Affordability: A
College Analysis
Southeastern College-Charleston is a Private For-Profit institution in North Charleston, SC with approximately 225 students. Southeastern College-Charleston has a high admission rate, indicating it may be more accessible compared to its peers. The graduation rate of 68.09% is below the national average for private for-profit institutions. Median earnings 10 years after graduation are relatively low, suggesting limited career prospects. The ROI score is negative, indicating that the cost of attending outweighs the potential earnings benefit.
The Verdict: Is Southeastern College-Charleston Worth It?
Southeastern College-Charleston presents a challenging value proposition. With an in-state and out-of-state tuition of $25,080 and median 10-year earnings of $30,737, the immediate financial picture is concerning. The median debt of $9,500 is relatively low, which is a positive, but the stark difference between tuition cost and earnings, reflected in a ROI Score of -69, indicates a significant financial deficit in the long term. The cost of attendance ($25,080) is nearly 82% of the median annual earnings ($30,737) before accounting for living expenses or interest on debt. To recoup the tuition cost alone, a graduate would need to work approximately 2.5 years, assuming all earnings go towards tuition and no living expenses are incurred. The debt payoff timeline for $9,500 at a typical interest rate would be relatively short, perhaps 2-3 years, but the overall return on the educational investment is negative according to the provided ROI score. This suggests that while the debt burden might be manageable, the earning potential post-graduation does not adequately compensate for the cost of the degree. Therefore, Southeastern College-Charleston appears to be overpriced for the financial outcomes it delivers. A clear recommendation is to carefully weigh the specific career outcomes of the chosen program against the cost, and to thoroughly explore alternative institutions or pathways that offer a stronger financial return.
Return on Investment
Given the negative ROI score and low earnings potential, the degree from Southeastern College-Charleston may not be worth the cost.
Debt Reality Check
Median student debt at Southeastern College-Charleston: $9,500. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $108/month. Total repaid: $12,960 ($3,460 in interest).
Breakeven vs high school diploma: 12.9 years. Debt burden: Low. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $12,960.
Strengths
- High admission rate
- Small student body
Weaknesses
- Low graduation rate
- Negative ROI score
Academic Profile
Southeastern College-Charleston distinguishes itself through its career-focused academic programs, designed to equip students with the practical skills demanded by today's employers. While specific departmental strengths are best explored through program catalogs, institutions of this type often excel in fields like healthcare, culinary arts, and business administration, offering diplomas and associate degrees that provide a direct pathway to employment. The faculty typically comprises experienced professionals from the industries they teach, bringing real-world insights and current practices into the classroom. This practical approach means that research opportunities might be less about theoretical exploration and more about applied projects or case studies relevant to specific career paths. Honors programs are uncommon in for-profit settings, with the focus remaining on core competency development. Study abroad opportunities are also unlikely given the vocational nature and the need for students to remain close to their local job markets. Academic support is crucial, and students can expect resources like tutoring, career counseling, and resume workshops, all geared towards successful job placement. The student-faculty ratio, while not explicitly provided, is generally managed to ensure personalized attention, especially in hands-on programs. Prospective students should investigate programs like Medical Assisting, Culinary Arts, or Business Management, which are common offerings and often lead to in-demand careers.
Financial Aid Guide for Southeastern College-Charleston
Pell Grant recipients: 67.7%. Students taking federal loans: 83.2%.
Navigating financial aid at Southeastern College-Charleston requires understanding its structure as a private, for-profit institution. The stated tuition of $25,080 per year is the primary cost, and financial aid is crucial for most students. While merit-based aid might exist in limited forms, the bulk of assistance will likely come from federal and state programs, as well as institutional aid designed to make the tuition accessible. Given the Pell Grant Rate is not provided, it's essential to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as early as possible to determine eligibility for federal grants, which do not need to be repaid. Federal student loans are a significant source of funding for students at for-profit colleges; the Federal Loan Rate data would be critical here, but assume most students will utilize them. Work-study opportunities may be available, offering part-time jobs on or near campus to help cover living expenses. Typical aid packages can vary widely based on individual financial need, but for a student with moderate to low income, a significant portion of the $25,080 tuition could be covered by grants and loans. For example, a student with substantial need might receive $5,000-$8,000 in grants and be eligible for federal loans covering the remainder, potentially reaching $15,000-$20,000 annually. Scholarships directly from Southeastern College-Charleston might be program-specific or tied to academic achievement, though they are often less substantial than federal aid. Negotiating aid at for-profit institutions is generally less common and less effective than at non-profits, as their pricing and aid structures are often more standardized. Focus on maximizing federal and state aid by submitting the FAFSA accurately and on time.
Hidden Costs at Southeastern College-Charleston
- Textbooks and course materials can range from $800 to $1,500 per academic year, depending on program requirements.
- Off-campus housing in North Charleston can cost between $900 and $1,500 per month for a shared apartment, totaling $10,800 to $18,000 annually.
- Transportation costs, including gas, insurance, and vehicle maintenance for commuting students, could add $1,000 to $2,500 per year.
- Personal living expenses, such as food, toiletries, and entertainment, might average $300 to $500 per month, amounting to $3,600 to $6,000 annually.
- Technology fees or costs for specific software required by programs could be an additional $200 to $500 per year.
- Graduation fees and other administrative charges, typically assessed in the final year, might total $100 to $300.
- Health insurance, if not covered by a parent's plan or a separate student plan, could add $2,000 to $4,000 annually.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Southeastern College-Charleston, a private for-profit institution, focuses on career-oriented programs, suggesting a direct pipeline to employment for its graduates. While specific data on major employers actively recruiting from Southeastern College-Charleston is not publicly detailed, institutions of this nature often see alumni placed in roles within the healthcare, business, and technology sectors, aligning with common vocational training fields. Given its Charleston, SC location, graduates may find opportunities with regional healthcare providers like MUSC Health or Roper St. Francis Healthcare, or within the growing aerospace and manufacturing industries in the Lowcountry, potentially including companies like Boeing South Carolina or Volvo Cars. The industries where alumni tend to cluster are likely those requiring specialized technical skills or certifications offered by the college, such as medical assisting, paralegal studies, or IT support. Graduate school placement rates are typically not a primary focus for for-profit colleges, which emphasize direct entry into the workforce. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, a common characteristic of smaller, career-focused institutions. Career services at such colleges usually concentrate on resume building, interview preparation, and job placement assistance, aiming to connect students with local and regional employers. Internship pipelines are crucial; students likely gain practical experience through mandatory or encouraged internships with local businesses and healthcare facilities, providing a bridge to full-time employment. Geographic hiring patterns would predominantly favor the Charleston metropolitan area and surrounding South Carolina regions, with some potential for placement in other Southeastern states depending on the specific program of study and individual networking efforts.
Campus Life & Culture at Southeastern College-Charleston
Southeastern College-Charleston attracts a diverse student body primarily focused on career advancement, with many students seeking to enter or advance within specific vocational fields. The student population tends to be local, drawing heavily from the North Charleston and greater Charleston area, and often includes working adults balancing education with employment and family responsibilities. Students who thrive here are self-motivated, goal-oriented individuals eager to acquire practical skills for immediate career impact.
Southeastern College-Charleston, nestled in North Charleston, SC, offers a focused and career-oriented campus experience for its approximately 225 students. As a private, for-profit institution, the campus culture is driven by a strong emphasis on practical training and preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce. The student body is relatively small, fostering a close-knit community where students often know each other across different programs. Social life tends to revolve around campus-organized events, career fairs, and student activities designed to enhance professional development. Given its size and focus, don't expect a sprawling campus with extensive recreational facilities or a traditional Greek life system. Instead, the 'vibe' is one of dedicated individuals pursuing specific career goals, supported by faculty who are often industry professionals. Many students commute, so on-campus social gatherings and study groups are key to building connections. Dining options are typically streamlined, focusing on convenience for busy students, and housing is generally off-campus, with students finding apartments in the surrounding North Charleston area or commuting from nearby communities. Student organizations are likely program-specific, offering networking and skill-building opportunities within their chosen fields, such as culinary arts or health sciences. Athletics are not a significant feature here, aligning with the school's vocational mission. The overall atmosphere is pragmatic and goal-oriented, with a strong sense of camaraderie among students united by their shared pursuit of career advancement.
Campus Highlights
- Career-focused curriculum designed for immediate job market entry.
- Faculty comprised of industry professionals bringing real-world experience.
- Small student body fostering a close-knit, supportive community.
- Emphasis on practical, hands-on training in vocational fields.
- Located in the vibrant Charleston metropolitan area, offering local employment opportunities.
- Dedicated career services support for job placement assistance.
- Flexible scheduling options often available for working students.
Location & Regional Advantages
Southeastern College-Charleston's location in North Charleston, SC, offers a mixed bag of regional advantages. The local job market in the Charleston metropolitan area is dynamic, driven by a strong presence in advanced manufacturing (Boeing, Volvo), aerospace, automotive, and a burgeoning technology sector. The healthcare industry, anchored by the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and Roper St. Francis Healthcare, also provides significant employment opportunities, which could align well with Southeastern College's program offerings. The cost of living in Charleston is generally considered moderate compared to major East Coast cities, though it has been rising. Proximity to industry hubs is a key strength; Charleston is a significant port city and a growing economic center in the Southeast. Quality of life is often cited as a draw, with access to beaches, a historic downtown, and a vibrant cultural scene. The weather is temperate, with hot summers and mild winters. Safety can vary by neighborhood, as with any urban area. For Southeastern College graduates, this location provides a solid base for entry-level positions, particularly in fields where the college offers specialized training that meets local industry demands. The concentration of businesses in the Charleston area means that graduates are well-positioned to find employment within a reasonable commuting distance, though competition for some roles can be high.
How to Get Into Southeastern College-Charleston
Gaining admission to Southeastern College-Charleston is highly accessible, given its 98.1% admission rate. The admissions office primarily looks for candidates who demonstrate a clear interest in pursuing a specific career path and possess the foundational skills to succeed in their chosen program. While SAT/ACT scores are not a factor, a high school diploma or GED is a prerequisite. Your application should highlight any relevant work experience, volunteer activities, or personal projects that showcase your motivation and aptitude for fields like healthcare, culinary arts, or business. The essay, if required, is an opportunity to articulate your career aspirations and explain why Southeastern College is the right place to achieve them. Focus on your 'why' – why this career, why now, and why this institution. Demonstrated interest is implicitly shown through your engagement with the admissions process, such as attending information sessions or speaking with an admissions counselor. Given the open enrollment nature, there are no Early Decision or Early Action advantages. The timeline is generally flexible, but applying at least 2-3 months before the intended start date is advisable to allow ample time for financial aid processing and enrollment.
How Southeastern College-Charleston Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: ECPI University - Charleston, Charleston Southern University, Trident Technical College
Advantages
- Focus on specific vocational/career training that may align directly with local job demands.
- Smaller class sizes potentially offering more personalized attention.
- Potentially faster program completion times for certain career-focused degrees.
Disadvantages
- Significantly lower median earnings compared to many other institutions.
- For-profit status often carries a different perception among employers than non-profit or public institutions.
- Limited range of academic programs and campus life experiences compared to larger universities.
Best For
- Students seeking a more accessible institution with a higher admission rate.
- Prospective students interested in a small, private college.
- Individuals looking for a lower-cost alternative.
Avoid If
- Students prioritizing high earning potential and career prospects should avoid this college.
- Graduates looking for high ROI should consider other options.
Frequently Asked Questions about Southeastern College-Charleston
How much does it cost to attend Southeastern College-Charleston?
In-state tuition at Southeastern College-Charleston is $25,080 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $25,080 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $9,500.
What is the acceptance rate at Southeastern College-Charleston?
Southeastern College-Charleston has an acceptance rate of 98.1%.
What is the graduation rate at Southeastern College-Charleston?
Southeastern College-Charleston has a graduation rate of 68.1%.
How much do Southeastern College-Charleston graduates earn?
The median earnings for Southeastern College-Charleston graduates 10 years after enrollment is $30,737. With median debt of $9,500, graduates earn roughly 3.2x their debt level annually.
How big is Southeastern College-Charleston?
Southeastern College-Charleston has approximately 225 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in North Charleston, SC and is a Private For-Profit institution.
Is Southeastern College-Charleston worth the cost?
Southeastern College-Charleston has an ROI score of -69 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $25,080 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $30,737, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.
Where is Southeastern College-Charleston located?
Southeastern College-Charleston is located in North Charleston, SC. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 225 students.
How much student debt do Southeastern College-Charleston graduates have?
The median student debt for Southeastern College-Charleston graduates is $9,500. With median earnings of $30,737 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 31%.
Is Southeastern College-Charleston a good college?
Southeastern College-Charleston has a graduation rate of 68.1% and median post-graduation earnings of $30,737. High admission rate of 98.08%.
How does Southeastern College-Charleston compare to similar colleges?
Graduation rate of 68.09%. Compared to peer institutions, Southeastern College-Charleston has a higher admission rate but lower graduation and earnings rates, making it less favorable in terms of value.
What career prospects do Southeastern College-Charleston graduates have?
Graduates may face limited career opportunities and lower earnings compared to their peers from more reputable institutions.
What should prospective students know about Southeastern College-Charleston?
Southeastern College-Charleston is positioned in a competitive market where it struggles to offer high value for its cost.
What makes Southeastern College-Charleston stand out?
Median debt of $9,500.
What are the pros and cons of attending Southeastern College-Charleston?
Median earnings 10 years after graduation are $30,737.
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Visit Southeastern College-Charleston official website
View on College Scorecard (Dept. of Education)
Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.