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Charleston Southern University and Columbia International University are both private nonprofit institutions — Charleston Southern University in Charleston, SC and Columbia International University in Columbia, SC. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Charleston, SC · Private
Acceptance rate: 96.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 2,893
Tuition: $32,520/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 47.2%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Education
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Charleston, SC with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
Columbia, SC · Private
Acceptance rate: 94.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 716
Tuition: $27,900/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 46.8%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Education, Health professions
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Columbia, SC with published program strength in Business and marketing and Education.
| Factor | Charleston Southern University | Columbia International University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 96.5% | 94.5% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 930–1160 |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 18–24 | 21 average |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 2,893 | 716 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $32,520/year | $27,900/year |
| Average net price after aid | $21,666 | $26,036 |
| Graduation rate | 47.2% | 46.8% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $45,898 | $38,951 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 12.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Charleston, SC | Columbia, SC |
| Largest program areas | Health professions, Business and marketing, Education | Business and marketing, Education, Health professions |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (96.5% vs 94.5%). Charleston Southern University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($21,666 vs $26,036). Both report a similar graduation rate (47.2%). Charleston Southern University is the larger undergraduate campus (2,893 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Charleston Southern University and Columbia International University
Charleston Southern University has an acceptance rate of 96.5%; Columbia International University is around 94.5%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Charleston Southern University tuition is $32,520/year. Columbia International University is $27,900/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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