Homeland Security at Columbia College

Columbia College's homeland security program commands a premium price compared to most programs nationally, but the earnings justify the investment. At $27,855 in debt versus $67,338 in first-year earnings, graduates face manageable repayment—that 0.41 debt-to-earnings ratio sits comfortably below concerning levels. The real story emerges when you look beyond South Carolina: these graduates outearn 94% of homeland security programs nationwide, pulling in nearly $20,000 more than the national median. That's exceptional performance for a program at a school with near-open admissions serving a predominantly Pell grant student population.

The state comparison requires context—Columbia College graduates tie for the highest earnings among South Carolina's three homeland security programs, so that 60th percentile ranking is more a quirk of the limited sample than a weakness. With only three programs statewide, there's essentially no middle ground. What matters more is the national standing, where this program clearly delivers value that exceeds what you'd find at most institutions.

For families weighing this investment, the math works: graduates earn enough in their first year to make the debt manageable, and they're entering the workforce with significantly stronger earning power than peers from other homeland security programs. The moderate sample size means individual outcomes will vary, but the track record suggests this program successfully translates into solid career prospects.