University of South Carolina
United States
University of South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina, United States
Founded
1801
Institution Type
Public Research University
Undergraduate Enrollment
30,187
Acceptance Rate
~61%
Discover the University of South Carolina
Discover the University of South Carolina
Founded on December 19, 1801, as South Carolina College, the University of South Carolina is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. Located in the heart of downtown Columbia, just a block from the South Carolina State House, the university serves as the flagship institution of the University of South Carolina System and is the largest university in the state by enrollment.
The University of South Carolina is classified as an R1 Doctoral University with the highest research activity by the Carnegie Classification. The university was awarded USD 309 million in sponsored research awards during the 2024 fiscal year, representing a 27 percent increase from the previous year. It offers more than 350 degree programs across 15 colleges and schools on its Columbia campus.
USC is globally recognized for its top-ranked International MBA program at the Darla Moore School of Business, which has held the No. 1 ranking in the country for 12 consecutive years. The university also houses the South Carolina Honors College, widely regarded as one of the nation's premier honors programs, and is home to rare collections including the world's largest Ernest Hemingway collection.
Key Milestones
- 1801: South Carolina College was chartered by the state legislature on December 19, 1801, as part of an effort to unite South Carolinians after the American Revolution.
- 1906: The institution was permanently renamed the University of South Carolina, expanding its academic scope with new schools and programs.
- 1963: The university was desegregated when Henrie Monteith, Robert Anderson, and James Solomon enrolled as the first African American students of the modern era.
- 1978: The South Carolina Honors College was established to offer a liberal arts-style education within the state university setting, later earning national recognition.
Academic Structure and Colleges
Academic Structure and Colleges
The University of South Carolina's Columbia campus is organized into 15 colleges and schools, offering more than 350 degree programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. With nationally ranked programs in international business, nursing, engineering, education, and public health, USC provides students with a broad and rigorous academic experience.
Darla Moore School of Business
Home to the No. 1-ranked International MBA program in the nation for 12 consecutive years, the Moore School offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business administration, finance, and global commerce.
- International MBA
- Finance
- Supply Chain Management
Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing
Offering programs in civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, and computer engineering, this college has risen significantly in national rankings and emphasizes innovation and research.
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
McCausland College of Arts and Sciences
The largest college at USC, it offers programs spanning the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics, forming the academic core of the university.
- Biological Sciences
- Political Science
- English and Creative Writing
Arnold School of Public Health
Established in 1975 as the state's first school of public health, the Arnold School offers nationally recognized programs in epidemiology, health promotion, and biostatistics.
- Epidemiology
- Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior
- Exercise Science
College of Education
Ranked among the leading education colleges in South Carolina and nationally, the College of Education prepares future educators, counselors, and educational leaders through innovative programs.
- Elementary Education
- Educational Leadership
- Counselor Education
College of Nursing
The College of Nursing has rapidly climbed in national rankings, with its BSN program ranked in the top 3 percent of more than 700 nursing schools evaluated by U.S. News & World Report.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- Nursing Administration
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- Application PlatformCommon Application or Coalition Application
- High School GPAAverage admitted GPA of approximately 3.69 (weighted)
- SAT/ACT ScoresTest-optional; middle 50% SAT: 1180-1380, ACT: 26-32
- College Prep Curriculum20 units including 4 English, 4 Math, 3 Lab Science, 2 Foreign Language
- Application FeeUSD 65
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeRequired from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum GPA3.0 on a 4.0 scale (varies by program)
- Standardized TestsGRE/GMAT required for some programs; check specific department
- English ProficiencyTOEFL minimum 80 iBT or IELTS 6.5 (varies by program)
- Application FeeUSD 50 for U.S. citizens/permanent residents
Non-binding early action deadline for freshman applicants seeking early admission consideration.
Priority deadline for freshman applicants; applications received after this date may be reviewed on a space-available basis.
Admitted freshmen must confirm their enrollment by submitting a deposit by this date.
Graduate program deadlines vary by department. Contact the Graduate School or specific program for exact dates.
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarships
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarships
The University of South Carolina offers competitive tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students. The Board of Trustees sets tuition annually, and the university provides a range of financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help make education affordable.
| Cost Category | In-State (Annual) | Out-of-State (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | USD 12,688 | USD 37,376 |
| Housing and Dining | USD 11,780 | USD 11,780 |
| Books and Supplies | USD 1,000 (estimated) | USD 1,000 (estimated) |
| Personal and Transportation | USD 4,386 (estimated) | USD 4,386 (estimated) |
| Total | USD 29,854 (estimated annual) | USD 54,542 (estimated annual) |
Merit-Based Scholarships
The University of South Carolina automatically considers all admitted students for merit-based scholarships during the admissions review process. No separate application is required for most awards.
- Award Range: Varies; contact the Office of Financial Aid for details
- Eligibility: Based on academic achievement, test scores, and application strength
- Renewable: Yes, with satisfactory academic progress
Need-Based Financial Aid
Approximately 42 percent of first-year students receive need-based financial aid. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA to be considered for federal and institutional aid.
- Average Net Price: USD 21,044 for federal loan recipients
- FAFSA Required: Yes, for all need-based aid consideration
- Aid Types Available: Grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of South Carolina's main campus spans over 444 acres in downtown Columbia, blending historic architecture with modern facilities. The iconic Horseshoe, listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1970, remains the symbolic heart of campus life.
The original campus quadrangle dating back to 1805, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and home to the South Caroliniana Library.
Opened in 2014, this state-of-the-art facility houses the nation's top-ranked International MBA program and modern collaborative learning spaces.
Opened in 2002, this multipurpose arena hosts Gamecocks basketball, concerts, and major campus events with a seating capacity for thousands of fans.
Housing and Dining
On-Campus Housing
USC offers 24 residence halls and a variety of housing options including traditional rooms, suites, and apartments to accommodate different student preferences and lifestyles.
- Traditional residence halls with single, double, and triple rooms
- Suite-style and apartment-style housing for upperclassmen
- Living-learning communities including the Green Quad sustainable community
Dining Options
Multiple dining facilities across campus offer diverse meal options, from all-you-care-to-eat dining halls to food courts and cafes, ensuring students have convenient and nutritious choices.
- Multiple dining halls with flexible meal plan options
- Food courts and retail dining locations across campus
- Specialty dining options including vegetarian, vegan, and allergen-friendly menus
Student Life at USC
Student Life at USC
Student life at the University of South Carolina is vibrant and diverse, with over 400 student organizations, a thriving Greek life scene, and a passionate athletics culture. From cultural events and community service to media outlets and academic clubs, there is something for every Gamecock.
Columbia, South Carolina: A Dynamic College City
Columbia, South Carolina: A Dynamic College City
Life in Columbia
As the capital and largest city of South Carolina, Columbia offers students a dynamic urban environment with a warm climate, affordable cost of living, and a growing job market. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse dining, and proximity to both mountains and beaches.
State Capital
Columbia is the seat of South Carolina's state government, offering students internship and career opportunities in public policy, law, and government.
Outdoor Recreation
Congaree National Park, Lake Murray, and the Saluda and Broad Rivers provide abundant opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and outdoor adventure just minutes from campus.
Cultural Scene
The city features the Columbia Museum of Art, the Koger Center for the Arts, the historic Vista district, and a thriving food and music scene in the Five Points neighborhood.
Strategic Location
Columbia is centrally located in South Carolina, approximately two hours from both the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Atlantic coast beaches of Charleston and Myrtle Beach.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Employers of USC Graduates
Practical Information for Students
Practical Information for Students
For International Students
The university provides dedicated support for international students including visa advising, cultural adjustment programs, and orientation sessions to help you transition smoothly to campus life.
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency. TOEFL and IELTS scores are accepted, and conditional admission may be available for students who need additional language preparation.
All international students are required to have health insurance regardless of credit hours enrolled. The university offers a student health insurance plan through BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of South Carolina: Worldwide Rankings
University of South Carolina: Worldwide Rankings
The University of South Carolina is recognized across multiple global and national ranking systems for its strong academic programs, research output, and student experience. The university is particularly distinguished for its No. 1-ranked International MBA program and top-tier first-year student experience among public universities.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| International Business | U.S. News & World Report | #1 |
| First-Year Experience (Public) | U.S. News & World Report | #1 |
| Nursing (BSN) | U.S. News & World Report | #22 |
| Nuclear Engineering | U.S. News & World Report | #21 |
Features
In addition, the university's leadership includes board-approved officers responsible for management and oversight of academics, research, finances, giving, technology, human resources, student affairs, communications and the greater university system.
Accommodation
Accommodation service is available\n
Work While Studying
Students can work while studying\n
Co-op/Internship Participation
There is an internship service\n
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
November - May
Location
1244 Blossom Street, Columbia, SC 29208
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