Business Administration, Management and Operations at Claflin University

Starting at roughly $37,600, Claflin's business program delivers earnings that trail both South Carolina's median ($41,953) and national averages by substantial margins—landing in just the 16th percentile nationally. What's more concerning: graduates carry $34,445 in debt, significantly above both state and national norms. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.92 means the typical graduate owes nearly a full year's salary, creating immediate financial pressure that could complicate basic milestones like securing housing or building emergency savings.

The silver lining is minimal earnings growth—just $2,000 over four years—which suggests graduates aren't rapidly advancing in their careers post-graduation. Within South Carolina, this program sits at the 40th percentile, meaning more than half of comparable state programs deliver better outcomes. When you consider that top South Carolina business programs like Charleston Southern produce graduates earning $64,920, the gap becomes stark. For a family paying private university tuition, these numbers suggest limited return on investment.

For families where Claflin represents important social capital or specific career networks, proceed carefully and minimize borrowing aggressively. Federal loans only, if possible. But if purely evaluating financial outcomes, South Carolina offers numerous business programs with stronger earnings trajectories and lower debt burdens. The 73% Pell Grant rate reflects Claflin's mission serving first-generation students—admirable work, but one that doesn't change the mathematical reality that this debt level against these earnings creates a challenging financial start.