Historic Preservation at College of Charleston

Charleston, SC · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Historic Preservation and Conservation
44 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
44
Optimistic
44
Base Case
46
Pessimistic
Earnings $35,326/yr (0% vs median)
AI Risk High (40% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (135,900 openings/yr)
ROI 10.2x earnings multiple (3.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #1 of 1 Historic Preservation and Conservation programs Top 1%

Program Analysis

This program at the College of Charleston offers a unique pathway into a specialized field, significantly shaped by its location. Charleston's rich history and architectural heritage create a vibrant, hands-on laboratory for historic preservation and conservation, giving you unparalleled access to real-world projects and a strong local network. This isn't a broad degree; it's deeply focused, attracting students passionate about cultural stewardship. While initial career trajectories might show moderate starting salaries, the deep expertise you develop here often leads to leadership roles in managing historic properties, consulting for preservation projects, or even teaching at a postsecondary level, where your specialized knowledge commands higher compensation. The reported AI risk likely pertains to administrative or digital archival aspects, not the physical, hands-on work critical to conservation. To truly thrive, actively seek internships with local preservation societies, architectural firms, or government agencies, leveraging the city's unique demand for these skills.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Historic Preservation graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $532K $529K $494K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.3x 10.2x 9.5x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.6x 3.6x 3.4x
Probability of Field Employment 55% 50% 39%
DegreeOutlook Score 44 44 46

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$51,912
Out-of-state: $147,432 (3.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$78,072
-50% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,500
7.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$51,884
47% growth from Year 1

About College of Charleston

With 72% of applicants admitted, College of Charleston prioritizes broad access, serving 10,366 students in Charleston, SC.

See all programs and financial aid at College of Charleston →

Top Career Paths

Managers, all other $136,550/yr
Facilities managers $104,690/yr
Area, ethnic, and cultural studies teachers, postsecondary $84,290/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 44/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Historic Preservation at College of Charleston?
At 44/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Historic Preservation programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Historic Preservation at College of Charleston?
The 40% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is College of Charleston one of the best schools for Historic Preservation?
Among 1 Historic Preservation programs, College of Charleston's #1 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →