Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Alcorn State, MS & Orangeburg, SC
When students choose between Alcorn State University and South Carolina State University, they're comparing two public universities with similar missions but vastly different completion outcomes. Both serve predominantly low-income, first-generation students across Mississippi and South Carolina.
But Alcorn State graduates nearly half its students while South Carolina State graduates fewer than three in ten. For families investing in higher education, that completion gap represents the real financial risk.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$27,000
federal loans
$31,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$13,000
borrowed by parents
$29,808
borrowed by parents
Both universities emphasize biological sciences as their dominant program family, with Biology, General producing 104 graduates at Alcorn State and 50 at South Carolina State. Alcorn State also shows strength in liberal arts (62 graduates) and business (36), while South Carolina State balances biology with family and consumer sciences (39 graduates) and criminal justice (30).
The program mix summary shows Alcorn State with 9% business concentration versus South Carolina State's 12% business and 10% education focus.
For students prioritizing degree completion, Alcorn State delivers significantly better outcomes with a 46% graduation rate versus South Carolina State's 29%. South Carolina State offers slightly higher earnings for those who complete degrees, but the completion risk makes this advantage largely theoretical for most students.
The data points to Alcorn State as the stronger choice — not only does it cost $4,228 less annually, but students are 17 percentage points more likely to actually graduate. Individual results depend on academic preparation, support systems, and personal circumstances, but the completion advantage at Alcorn State makes it the more reliable path to degree attainment.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
