Best Colleges in South Carolina

Get equipped with the resources that will help you easily navigate your learning journey. Discover schools that match your goals and aspirations.

Best Accredited Colleges

#1 Clemson University

Clemson, SC

$18757

82%

As the second-largest higher education institution in South Carolina, Clemson University enrolls over 25,000 students through seven colleges, awarding 80 undergraduate and 110 graduate degrees. Prospective first-year students undergo a holistic evaluation process that considers GPA, class rank, ACT/SAT performance, and choice of major. Transfer candidates need at least 30 credits earned with a minimum 2.5 GPA. The university offers a variety of financial aid opportunities, including the Gateway Scholarships for students from underrepresented communities. Bachelor's candidates pick from majors like psychology, women's leadership, material science and engineering, and graphic communication. They can also enroll in an agricultural mechanization and business program that combines technological knowledge and management skills. Through Clemson's Creative Inquiry Initiative, undergraduate students may access research guidance and project funding. Graduate programs include master's tracks in microbiology; digital production arts; and parks, recreation, and tourism management. Candidates may also pursue a Ph.D. in healthcare genetics. These doctoral candidates can pick from three specialized tracks: intervention, bench science, and ethics and health policy.

Learn More

View School Profile

#2 University of South Carolina-Upstate

Spartanburg, SC

$14730

43%

Established in 1967, the University of South Carolina Upstate is one of the newest and fastest-growing higher education institutions in the state. USC Upstate enrolls around 6,000 students in over 40 undergraduate and graduate programs. All applicants must submit standardized test scores. The university offers academic scholarships to first-year students who possess a minimum 3.25 GPA, rank in the top 10% of their class, and score at least 1100 on the SAT. The school offers bachelor's degrees in topics that include computer information systems, health informatics, sociology, and business administration and economics. Students can also pursue a bachelor of science in nursing; this program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Candidates may also design their own major through the interdisciplinary studies track. In addition to a variety of pre-professional options, USC Upstate delivers six graduate programs. Offerings include nursing, informatics, and special education: visual impairment. Certified teachers can advance their careers by earning a master's degree in early childhood education or elementary education. The university also offers a graduate business analytics program that focuses on extracting valuable insight from data sets.

Learn More

View School Profile

#3 Lander University

Greenwood, SC

$14570

42%

Lander University was founded in 1872 as a female academy but now provides affordable coeducational academics at its campus in Greenwood. The institution facilitates distance education through Blackboard. At the undergraduate level, Lander offers an entirely online bachelor of science in nursing track for licensed RNs. Coursework covers topics like community health nursing, pathophysiology, and enhanced physical assessment. This BSN program maintains specialized accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Online students who want to obtain master's degrees can pick from fields like management, clinical nurse leadership, Montessori education, and instructional technology. They can also pursue a master of science in emergency management. The 31-credit MSEM curriculum teaches students to mitigate damage caused by natural catastrophes and anthropogenic disasters (including nuclear incidents). Designed for first responders and other working professionals, the MSEM program lets learners take two courses at a time to graduate in two years. Admission requirements for this program consist of a minimum 2.75 GPA, a two-page cover letter/writing sample, and three recommendation letters.

Learn More

View School Profile

#4 Winthrop University

Rock Hill, SC

$16970

57%

Founded in 1886 as a women's teacher training school, Winthrop University now offers coeducational academic programs to over 6,000 students each year. The average incoming first-year student possesses a 3.98 GPA and an ACT score of 22 or an SAT score of 1087. To enroll as a transfer student, candidates need a minimum 2.0 GPA. Winthrop bases its tuition rates on residency status. The university provides ample financial aid opportunities, including transfer scholarships. The academic catalog contains bachelor's tracks in accounting, human development/family studies, visual communication design, and management. Students may enroll in a musical theatre program, training voice and musicianship skills to prepare for careers as professional performers. Winthrop also delivers a human nutrition program that offers concentrations in dietetics and chronic disease prevention. Master's programs covers fields like arts administration, civic and public engagement, and educational leadership. Graduate candidates may pursue a master of business administration; this program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. MBA candidates choose from eight concentration options, including a fully online sports marketing and revenue generation track.

Learn More

View School Profile

#5 Converse College

Spartanburg, SC

$19245

72%

Located in Spartanburg, Converse College provides undergraduate academics for female students along with coeducational graduate and online programs. Bachelor's degrees include psychology, music therapy, creative and professional writing, and hispanic studies. Students can pursue a business administration degree, focusing their curriculum on an area like marketing, human resources, or international business. They may also enroll in a bachelor of health administration program that focuses on patient data analysis and care delivery optimization. Converse offers master's programs in marriage and family therapy, music education (with initial teacher certification), and political science. The university offers fully online graduate programs, like a master of information management. Distance learners can also earn an education specialist degree in literacy; this 36-credit program leads to certification in South Carolina as a literacy teacher or literacy coach. To enroll, first-year applicants must submit the Common Application, ACT or SAT scores, and official high school transcripts. Graduate admission criteria differ by program, but typically include a minimum 2.75 GPA. Converse offers need-based grants and scholarships based on athletic or artistic talent.

Learn More

View School Profile

#6 College of Charleston

Charleston, SC

$19790

69%

Founded in 1770, the College of Charleston is the oldest higher education institution in South Carolina. Today, the institution serves more than 12,000 students, delivering affordable and career-relevant degrees through its nine academic schools. Incoming first-year students undergo a holistic evaluation process that considers their academic preparedness (including ACT/SAT performance), leadership qualifications, and extracurricular accomplishments. Transfer candidates need a minimum 2.6 GPA if they reside in the state and a minimum 3.0 if they come from outside of South Carolina. Financial aid opportunities include the Charles Kaiser Award for Outstanding Psychology Students. Undergraduate majors include marine biology, women's and gender studies, commercial real estate finance, and hospitality and tourism management. Students can enroll in a public health program, which prepares them for careers in epidemiology and health policy. CofC also delivers a flexible bachelor of professional studies track that enables working adults to finish their college education. Graduate degrees cover fields like creative writing; data science and analytics; and teaching, learning, and advocacy.

Learn More

View School Profile

#7 Claflin University

Orangeburg, SC

$18089

53%

Based in Orangeburg, Claflin University is a private and historically black institution that serves about 2,000 students annually. The school powers online education through Blackboard, delivering four fully remote bachelor's degrees. These options include pathways in criminal justice, psychology, and nursing (RN to BSN). Undergraduate candidates may also obtain a bachelor of science in organizational management that prepares them to lead dynamic teams in the for-profit, nonprofit, and government sectors. Designed as a completionist pathway, the organizational management program requires applicants to hold an associate degree or at least 45 transferable credits. Claflin provides online master's credentials in educational curriculum and instruction as well as criminal justice. Alternatively, graduate students can enroll in the school's master of business administration program, which is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. The flexible MBA curriculum focuses on sustainable business practices, value proposition for customers, and ethical leadership principles. Candidates typically earn their degree in 18 months. To enroll in the MBA program, applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA and adequate GMAT scores.

Learn More

View School Profile

#8 Francis Marion University

Florence, SC

$11935

37%

Francis Marion University is a public liberal arts institution located in Florence that supports about 4,200 students each year. To enroll as an incoming first-year student, candidates undergo a multifaceted admissions process that considers their GPA, previous coursework, and SAT/ACT scores. Transfer applicants need at least 22 credits earned with a minimum 2.0 GPA. In addition to affordable tuition rates, the university offers several forms of financial aid, including transfer scholarships and graduate fellowships. Undergraduate students pick from majors like environmental science, nonprofit management, archaeology, and medical technology. Learners may enroll in the school's professional writing program, which prepares them for careers as corporate communication officers and technical writers. FMU also delivers five pre-professional tracks. Graduate programs cover fields like physician assistant studies, applied behavior analysis, and healthcare executive management. Experienced educators can earn master's degrees in learning disabilities and instructional accommodations, which lead to advanced certification/endorsement. Outside the classroom, students can engage in campus athletics and independent research projects. FMU also facilitates study abroad opportunities through 11 university partners.

Learn More

View School Profile

#9 Columbia International University

Columbia, SC

$18476

67%

Founded as a two-year school in 1923, Columbia International University now offers undergraduate and graduate programs to over 1,200 students. The institution facilitates online education through the Canvas platform and undergraduate candidates can enroll in fully remote programs for business and human services. The former option delivers a comprehensive generalist education that prepares students to work as corporate employees, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit administrators. CIU does not maintain GPA requirements for incoming first-year students, although transfer applicants need a minimum 2.0 GPA. The online graduate catalog contains master's programs in intercultural studies, educational administration, youth ministry leadership, and care and counseling. Students may also enroll in a 45-credit disaster relief and emergency management program, earning their credentials in two years. At the doctoral level, remote degrees cover fields like ministerial leadership and theological studies. CIU also oversees a doctor of organizational leadership program that teaches candidates to apply research findings and implement change models to bolster their company's competitive advantage. Prospective graduate students need a minimum 3.2-3.7 GPA, depending on the program.

Learn More

View School Profile

#10 University of South Carolina-Beaufort

Bluffton, SC

$16266

27%

The University of South Carolina Beaufort enrolls over 2,100 students in affordable associate and bachelor's programs. Majors include hospitality management, studio art, computational science, and public health. Learners may also enroll in the school's business administration program, which offers concentrations in accounting, management, and marketing. Additionally, the university lets students design their own interdisciplinary major, picking coursework from two or more fields of study. USCB offers a biology program that focuses on coastal ecology and conservation. Candidates learn to identify and ameliorate the environmental stresses that are caused by residential and commercial development. Graduates are well-prepared to work as conservation scientists and ecotourism specialists. Furthermore, for learners who want to engage in remote learning, the university provides three fully online degree completion tracks powered by Moodle. First-year candidates need a minimum 2.0 GPA and a 17 or higher on the ACT or an 880 or higher on the SAT. Prospective transfer students under the age of 25 who have fewer than 30 credits must also furnish standardized test results. USCB provides a variety of financial aid, including out-of-state tuition waivers.

Learn More

View School Profile

#11 Erskine College

Due West, SC

$34550

60%

Based in the town of Due West, Erskine College oversees undergraduate liberal arts programs and a graduate theological seminary. Approximately 800 students attend Erskine, pursuing bachelor's degrees in fields like political science, health science, and philosophy. Learners may also obtain athletic training credentials through a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education. Athletic training coursework emphasizes clinical skill development, helping candidates gain the hands-on experience needed to work in patient care settings. Additionally, Erskine offers a variety of pre-professional tracks for students who want to pursue careers in education, engineering, law, and the allied health fields. Graduate candidates can obtain master's degrees in theology and practical divinity. Experienced religious leaders can enroll in the doctor of ministry program, completing the 36-credit degree plan in three years. First-year applicants should submit an online application, official high school transcripts, and ACT/CLT/SAT scores. Transfer candidates need at least a 2.0 GPA. Graduate criteria differ by program but usually include a minimum 2.5 GPA.

Learn More

View School Profile

#12 Charleston Southern University

Charleston, SC

$17858

35%

As a leader in distance education, Charleston Southern University offers career-focused undergraduate and graduate degrees in 14 areas of study. Students access asynchronous coursework through Blackboard. They can enroll in fully online bachelor's programs in computer and information sciences, criminal justice, and healthcare administration. In the healthcare track, learners prepare for leadership roles in hospitals and private practices by delving into managerial statistics, business laws and ethics, and healthcare policy. Undergraduate applicants need to demonstrate adequate ACT or SAT scores. The majority of CSU's online programs target graduate students. Options include master's degrees in project management, analytics, nursing, and human resource management. The university also offers a master of business administration accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education. The business curriculum totals 33 credits and allows students to pick from seven emphasis areas, including supply chain management, finance, and management information systems. MBA candidates may earn their credentials in as few as 17 months. Application materials consist of a 300-to-500-word personal statement, a current resume, and two signed recommendation letters. Students may also be asked to submit GMAT scores.

Learn More

View School Profile

#13 Newberry College

Newberry, SC

$19427

52%

Established in 1856, Newberry College is a private liberal arts institution that serves over 1,000 students annually. The school delivers undergraduate programs on campus and online. Major options include digital marketing, music education, and forestry and environmental management. Candidates may also enroll in an exercise science and human performance program that prepares them for careers as athletic trainers and physical therapists. Newberry College offers a traditional nursing degree accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Alternatively, students can enroll in a fully online RN-to-BSN track. Additional remote academic options include criminal justice, psychology, and respiratory therapy. High-achieving students may participate in the Summerland Honors Program and access distinct financial aid and networking opportunities. Education majors benefit from dedicated support provided by the RETAIN Center of Excellence for Mentoring and Induction of Teachers. All students at Newberry College pay the same tuition rate, and the college provides ample financial aid opportunities, which include endowed scholarships based on GPA and ACT/SAT performance.

Learn More

View School Profile

#14 Columbia College

Columbia, SC

$17550

49%

Columbia College was founded in 1854, making it one of the oldest women's colleges in the United States. Approximately 1,200 students currently attend Columbia College, many of whom pursue remote learning opportunities through the Desire2Learn platform. Distance learners can access over 800 individual asynchronous classes. They may obtain fully online bachelor's degrees in fields like sociology, international business, human services, and nursing (RN to BSN). The college also offers a cybersecurity program that teaches students to conduct digital investigations and process evidence according to accepted industry standards. The school's graduate catalog contains online master's degrees in educational leadership and business administration. Columbia College's MBA programs hold accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Candidates personalize their curriculum by pursuing an accounting or human resource management emphasis. Additionally, the college delivers a master of science in criminal justice that focuses on law enforcement and corrections administration. Learners also cultivate their research and policy analysis competencies.

Learn More

View School Profile

#15 Coker College

Hartsville, SC

$16464

47%

Based in Hartsville, Coker University offers student-centered academic programs with strong liberal arts components. Bachelor's degree options include computer science, physical education and sports studies, music, and criminology. The school also delivers a business administration program that allows learners to pick from six concentrations. Furthermore, undergraduate candidates may design their own curricula through the interdisciplinary studies track. Coker oversees five master's programs, all of which students can complete on campus or online through asynchronous classes powered by Blackboard. Degree options include management and leadership, literacy studies, instructional technology, and college athletic administration. Distance learners can also pursue a master of science in criminal and social justice policy. For high-achieving students, the college offers an honors program that fosters intellectual growth through a combination of service learning opportunities, independent research projects, and study abroad experiences. First-year candidates must submit ACT or SAT scores. To enroll as a transfer student, applicants need a minimum 2.0 GPA. Prospective graduate students must possess at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA.

Learn More

View School Profile

#16 The Citadel

Charleston, SC

$17017

73%

Based in Charleston, The Citadel Military was established in 1842 as one of six senior military colleges in the United States. The institution houses the South Carolina Corps of Cadets -- military students who study under a classical armed forces system that emphasizes character development and leadership training. The Citadel also delivers civilian academic programs, including 23 undergraduate majors and 26 graduate degrees. Bachelor's candidates pick from majors like intelligence and security studies, biology, accounting, and civil and environmental engineering. They can pursue a political science degree, picking a concentration in international politics and legal affairs, pre-law and legal studies, or American government and politics. All undergraduate students may augment their degree plans by taking on a complementary minor. The graduate catalog contains master's degrees in clinical counseling, computer and information sciences, and interdisciplinary STEM education. The Citadel also provides a plethora of online programs through Blackboard. Options include a master of business administration, which holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

Learn More

View School Profile

#17 North Greenville University

Tigerville, SC

$16821

61%

North Greenville University first opened its doors in 1891 as a non-government high school. Today, the institution enrolls over 2,200 students in comprehensive bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Learners can combine traditional academics with online classes powered by Blackboard to create a hybrid learning experience. Alternatively, they may earn one of the school's five fully remote bachelor's degrees. For working professionals who want to complete their college education, NGU offers a general studies program that allows candidates to design a curriculum that aligns with their career goals. Distance learners may also obtain baccalaureate credentials in fields like criminal justice, applied psychology, Christian ministries, and business and leadership. Furthermore, NGU delivers an elementary education program that contains coursework related to child development, curriculum utilizing technology, and classroom assessment and management. Upon completion, graduates can pursue their master's degree in teaching and state certification. To enroll as a first-year student, applicants must submit an online form, official high school transcripts, and ACT/SAT scores. Transfer candidates need at least 12 credits earned with a 2.0 GPA or higher. NGU bases its tuition prices on enrollment status.

Learn More

View School Profile

#18 University of South Carolina-Columbia

Columbia, SC

$20271

75%

The University of South Carolina enrolls roughly 34,000 students in 350 comprehensive academic programs. The school delivers distance education through Blackboard, allowing undergraduate candidates with previous college experience to complete their bachelor's in as few as 12 months. Online options include a bachelor of science in nursing track for working RNs, which incorporates the hands-on practicum experiences learners need to work as interdisciplinary nurse generalists. BSN applicants need an unencumbered RN license and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Additional bachelor's completion programs include hospitality management, criminal justice, and information management and systems. UofSC offers over 35 online graduate programs, with options like applied statistics, education administration, information science, and public health. The university also delivers a variety of engineering credentials. Candidates can enroll in the school's master of science in nuclear engineering track to develop skills related to predictive computer modeling and safety analysis of energy systems. Doctoral candidates may pursue a remote Ph.D. in computer engineering, which allows them to pursue careers as research scientists and college educators.

Learn More

View School Profile

#19 Southern Wesleyan University

Central, SC

$16008

44%

Based in the town of Central, Southern Wesleyan University is a private higher education institution that supports about 1,600 students annually. The school provides distance education through Canvas, delivering a fully online associate of general studies program that prepares candidates for transfer opportunities. Distance learners can also pursue baccalaureate credentials in fields like human services, early childhood and family studies, and business administration. Licensed RNs can earn their bachelor of science in nursing in as few as 20 months through a completion pathway accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Graduate candidates can pick from five online master's programs, including classroom leadership, educational administration and supervision, and e-learning and instructional design. Business majors can extend their academic training by enrolling in an MBA program that offers concentrations in human resources and healthcare administration. Candidates may also focus their degree plan on project management, learning how to influence team dynamics and implement quality control systems. SWU does not require MBA applicants to submit GRE/GMAT scores.

Learn More

View School Profile

#20 University of South Carolina-Aiken

Aiken, SC

$14821

41%

The University of South Carolina - Aiken enrolls about 3,300 students in over 50 comprehensive academic programs. Learners at the school may pursue an education online through Blackboard. For example, licensed RNs can enroll in a fully online bachelor of nursing track to obtain their qualifications in as few as 12 months. To enroll in this program, candidates must possess an active and unencumbered license in the state where they plan to complete preceptor work. The university also offers degree completion programs in special education and business administration. Undergraduate applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA. Experienced educators may also earn remote master's credentials that lead to add-on certification and endorsement in areas like project-based learning, online teaching, and gifted and talented education. USC Aiken also oversees master of business administration programs that hold accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. MBA candidates complete 36 credits of coursework over two years. They may pursue a generalist track or concentrate their training on areas like accounting, finance, and project management. MBA applicants need a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and adequate GMAT results.

Learn More

View School Profile

#21 Wofford College

Spartanburg, SC

$27101

81%

Wofford College is located in Spartanburg and focuses on liberal arts education. Students choose from 26 bachelor's programs, including art history, physics, studio art, and computer science. They can also pursue a business economics degree, developing the mathematical and analytical skills needed to analyze how governmental policies affect economic activity worldwide. Furthermore, the college delivers a bachelor of intercultural studies program that enables candidates to design their own major, focusing coursework and research on a specific country or region. Beyond conventional undergraduate academics, Wofford provides pre-professional programs in nine areas. Options include law, medicine, ministry, and veterinary science. The college facilitates one graduate program -- a master of arts in teaching. MAT candidates spend four years completing their baccalaureate credentials and an additional year earning their graduate degree and professional teacher certification. To enroll as an incoming first-year student, applicants should submit the Common Application and official high school transcripts. Domestic students can also submit their SAT/ACT scores, if they want to. Financial aid opportunities include institutional scholarships for music, theatre, studio art, and art history majors.

Learn More

View School Profile

View More Schools

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best colleges in South Carolina?

Some of the best colleges in South Carolina include Clemson University, University of South Carolina, Furman University, College of Charleston, and Wofford College.

2. How do I apply to colleges in South Carolina?

To apply to colleges in South Carolina, you typically need to complete an online application, submit your high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. Each college may have specific requirements, so it's important to check their websites for detailed instructions.

3. What majors are popular in South Carolina colleges?

Popular majors in South Carolina colleges include business administration, nursing, engineering, education, psychology, and biology. However, each college offers a wide range of majors, so you can explore various fields of study.

4. How much does tuition cost at South Carolina colleges?

Tuition costs vary depending on the college and whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student. On average, in-state tuition for public colleges in South Carolina is around $12,000 per year, while out-of-state tuition can range from $25,000 to $50,000 per year. Private colleges tend to have higher tuition rates.

5. Are there scholarships available for South Carolina colleges?

Yes, there are scholarships available for South Carolina colleges. Many colleges offer merit-based scholarships based on academic achievements, extracurricular activities, or specific talents. Additionally, there are external scholarships and financial aid options available to help students fund their education.

6. What is the student-to-faculty ratio at South Carolina colleges?

The student-to-faculty ratio varies among colleges in South Carolina. Generally, smaller private colleges have lower student-to-faculty ratios, ranging from 10:1 to 15:1. Larger public universities may have ratios closer to 20:1 or higher. It's important to research the specific college you are interested in for accurate information.

7. Can I visit the campuses of South Carolina colleges?

Yes, most South Carolina colleges offer campus tours and information sessions for prospective students. It is highly recommended to visit the campuses you are considering to get a feel for the environment, meet current students, and learn more about the facilities and programs offered.

8. What extracurricular activities are available at South Carolina colleges?

South Carolina colleges offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, clubs, student organizations, community service opportunities, and cultural events. You can participate in activities related to your interests, such as music, theater, sports, leadership, or volunteering.

9. Are there on-campus housing options at South Carolina colleges?

Yes, most colleges in South Carolina provide on-campus housing options for students. These can include traditional dormitories, apartment-style living, or themed housing communities. Living on campus allows students to be immersed in the college experience and easily access campus resources.

10. What support services are available for students at South Carolina colleges?

South Carolina colleges offer various support services to help students succeed academically and personally. These services may include academic advising, tutoring centers, career counseling, health services, counseling centers, disability support, and campus safety resources. Students can take advantage of these services to enhance their college experience.