American Public University System vs Columbia Southern University
Charles Town, WV — Orange Beach, AL
| Metric | American Public University System Charles Town, WV | Columbia Southern University Orange Beach, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Charles Town, WV | Orange Beach, AL |
| Type | Private For-Profit | Private For-Profit |
| Total Enrollment | 40,074 | 12,176 |
| Acceptance Rate | — | — |
| SAT Average | — | — |
| In-State Tuition | $8,400 | $6,760 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $8,400 | $6,760 |
| Avg Net Price | $9,597 | $14,580 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,743 | $21,339 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 55.2% | 35.3% |
| Retention Rate | 97.1% | 71.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $32,917 | $55,140 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $44,409 | $63,534 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 3078300.0% | 487700.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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American Public University System
Charles Town, WV
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Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do American Public University System and Columbia Southern University compare?▼
American Public University System (Charles Town, WV) has no published acceptance rate, in-state tuition of $8,400, and median 10-year earnings of $44,409. Columbia Southern University (Orange Beach, AL) has no published acceptance rate, in-state tuition of $6,760, and median 10-year earnings of $63,534.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, American Public University System or Columbia Southern University?▼
Columbia Southern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $63,534 vs $44,409. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, American Public University System or Columbia Southern University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), American Public University System is the more affordable option at $9,597 per year versus $14,580.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
American Public University System has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 55.2% vs 35.3%.
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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.
Related
Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025