Analysis
Similar interdisciplinary programs across South Carolina suggest this associate's degree leads to first-year earnings around $41,730—a solid starting point that puts graduates right at the state median for this field. The estimated debt load of $15,551 yields a manageable 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly four-and-a-half months of their annual salary. By year four, earnings climb to $51,177, showing meaningful growth potential.
The challenge here is assessing whether Technical College of the Lowcountry matches its peer institutions. The top performers in South Carolina—like Central Carolina Technical College at $59,456—demonstrate that not all interdisciplinary programs deliver equivalent results. At the same time, the estimated earnings here align exactly with the state median, suggesting this program tracks with typical outcomes rather than underperforming. The four-year earnings figure provides some reassurance that graduates aren't stagnating.
For parents, the debt level appears reasonable and the earnings trajectory looks promising, but remember these are estimates based on comparable programs, not confirmed outcomes from this specific campus. The real question is whether this broad, interdisciplinary credential will translate into concrete job opportunities in the Beaufort area, or whether a more specialized technical program might offer clearer career pathways. Request placement data and talk to recent graduates before committing.
Where Technical College of the Lowcountry Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies associates's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technical College of the Lowcountry | — | $51,177 | — |
| Central Carolina Technical College | $59,456 | $57,364 | -4% |
| Tri-County Technical College | $51,330 | $52,881 | +3% |
| Greenville Technical College | $31,783 | $41,036 | +29% |
| York Technical College | $42,143 | $41,002 | -3% |
Compare to Similar Programs in South Carolina
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies associates's programs at peer institutions in South Carolina (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,500 | $41,730* | $51,177 | $15,551* | — | |
| $5,715 | $59,456* | $57,364 | —* | — | |
| $4,448 | $51,330* | $52,881 | —* | — | |
| $5,044 | $45,236* | — | —* | — | |
| $5,512 | $42,143* | $41,002 | $8,250* | 0.20 | |
| $4,788 | $41,730* | $35,270 | $16,000* | 0.38 | |
| National Median | — | $35,979* | — | $13,023* | 0.36 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Technical College of the Lowcountry, approximately 34% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 9 similar programs in SC. Actual outcomes may vary.