Analysis
Trident Technical College's interdisciplinary associate's degree lands graduates in the bottom quarter of earnings among South Carolina's technical colleges offering this program—at $32,725, that's $9,000 below the state median and roughly $13,000 less than nearby Midlands Technical College. While the $12,000 debt load is manageable in absolute terms, the combination creates a less competitive profile than peer institutions in the state.
The small sample size here (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly year to year, but the pattern is worth noting: graduates from other SC technical colleges in this program consistently earn 30-80% more in their first year. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 looks reasonable on paper, but that's cold comfort when peers are earning substantially more with similar or even higher debt loads. For a family choosing between technical colleges in South Carolina, Central Carolina or Tri-County would offer considerably stronger financial outcomes.
If your student is committed to Trident specifically—perhaps for location or transfer agreements—verify whether they're targeting one of the college's stronger programs rather than this interdisciplinary degree. Technical colleges often shine brightest in their specialized training programs rather than general studies tracks.
Where Trident Technical College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all multi/interdisciplinary studies associates's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Trident Technical College graduates compare to all programs nationally
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Trident Technical CollegeCharleston | $4,564 | $32,725 | — | $12,000 | 0.37 |
 Central Carolina Technical CollegeSumter | $5,715 | $59,456 | $57,364 | — | — |
 Tri-County Technical CollegePendleton | $4,448 | $51,330 | $52,881 | — | — |
 Aiken Technical CollegeGraniteville | $5,044 | $45,236 | — | — | — |
 York Technical CollegeRock Hill | $5,512 | $42,143 | $41,002 | $8,250 | 0.20 |
 Midlands Technical CollegeWest Columbia | $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 Trident Technical College, approximately 27% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 24 graduates with reported earnings and 23 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.