Best Colleges in South Carolina

South Carolina has 187 miles of coastline and a humid subtropical climate to go along with it. Summers are warm and winters are largely mild in the Palmetto State, especially close to the Atlantic ocean, which is also where most of the state’s population lives—in Charleston. There are 61 colleges in South Carolina, including 8 historically black colleges and universities. The largest institution in the state is the University of South Carolina, which resides in the state capital, Columbia. The most selective school is Claflin University. Automotive manufacturing, aerospace, biotechnology, energy, and logistics are the top industries in the South Carolina. The most prominent attractions in the state include Myrtle Beach, the Charleston Historic District, Hilton Head Island, and Fort Sumter.

How Were the Top Schools in South Carolina Chosen?

Appily determines “Best Colleges” based on publicly-available information from the US Department of Education. Several factors include, but are not limited to, data about admitted students’ academic calibers, students’ expected career outcomes after graduation, and colleges’ investments toward making their institution accessible to all students.

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Bob Jones University

Founded by a traveling evangelist, Bob Jones University is an Evangelical Christian institution located in western South Carolina. BJU confers undergrad degrees in over 60 academic majors featuring a combination of liberal arts and Bible classes. As...

Furman University

Furman University is a 4-year, 100% residential institution in Greenville, South Carolina, and is the oldest private institution in the state. The curriculum has a liberal arts focus throughout its 60 degrees of studies and is based around The Furman...

“…

I am definately learning more than I thought I'd be learning in such short semesters at Furman. At times it may seem a bit overwhelming but professors are always willing to explain and help their students and Furman provides tutoring if needed during...

” – Demesheka from Conyers, GA
Wofford College

Established in 1854, Wofford College is a 4-year, liberal arts institution located in Spartanburg, SC. Wofford offers 67 majors, minors, and programs on its 170-acre campus, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and, in...

“…

Wofford is a tough school. In order to be a successful student there, you have got to mean business. There's no fooling around or second chances. By attending Wofford, I am challenging myself more than I ever have before and it is definitely...

” – Lisa from Baltimore, MD
Clemson University

Clemson University is America’s second-largest university by student population and South Carolina’s land- and sea-grant institution. Clemson is home to seven colleges and schools offering bachelor’s degrees in more than 80 academic majors. For...

“…

Not only do I learn a lot of material from the textbooks and outstanding professors, but Clemson teaches you how to manage your new independent life. It also reaffirms your basic fundamentals in school and out side of the classroom. You will be book...

” – Lenise from Decatur, GA
University of South Carolina-Columbia

The University of South Carolina is a 4-year public research institution in the state capital of Columbia. South Carolina encompasses 12 colleges conferring undergraduate degrees. Additionally, U of SC is home to the first freestanding academic...

“…

The classes at The University of South Carolina are great. The professors are always there to help you if you have any questions and they really want you to succeed in their classes. Plus, being at Carolina teaches you a lot about who you are and the...

” – Latifah from Columbia, SC
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Columbia International University is a private 4-year Christian college in South Carolina’s state capital. CIU offers 24 undergraduate, graduate, and seminary academic programs, all of which are founded on a biblical worldview. As a Christian...

“…

Columbia International University is a very diverse and highly valued college. The staff,faculty, and students are all part of what makes the school so compelling . The school is focused on give each student an education that will allow them to Know...

” – Megan from Columbia, SC
Presbyterian College

Affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, Presbyterian College is a 4-year liberal arts college in western South Carolina. PC grants undergraduate degrees in 107 academic majors, minors, and concentrations and all students are expected to abide by the...

“…

great professors and classes

” – Meghan from Liberty, SC
Southern Wesleyan University

Southern Wesleyan University is a Christian liberal arts college in upstate South Carolina affiliated with the Wesleyan Church. SWU confers bachelor’s degrees in over 25 academic fields of study. Additionally, the university sponsors a 9-month...

“…

I rate Southern Wesleyan as a ten out of ten! This university is not perfect but the mistakes are made up for by the incredible community and God filled atmosphere on campus. Southern Wesleyan University quickly becomes your home away from home and...

” – Alex from Dallas, NC
Citadel Military College of South Carolina

The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina is a public institution and senior military college in Charleston. The Citadel confers undergrad degrees in 23 academic majors and all students become part of the South Carolina Corps of Cadets. In...

“…

It's one of the most challenging places. If you want to make something of yourself and actually learn something come to the Citadel, but be it takes some thick skin to excel. It's a great school with an amazing alumni network. If you want a different...

” – george from Athens, GA
Lander University

Founded in 1872, Lander University is a small public higher education institution situated in Greenwood, South Carolina. The university provides a liberal arts program and several professional schools. The school houses a popular Equestrian Center...

“…

Here at Lander I find everyday that I am being pushed to my fullest potential. I learn something new everyday that is in my interests. I have picked up great study habits and have learned how to achieve the best grades to benefit my education.

” – Jessica from Anderson, SC
Anderson University

Anderson University is a Christian liberal arts college in western South Carolina with close ties to the South Carolina Baptist Convention. Anderson is home to nine colleges and schools conferring bachelor’s degrees in 36 academic majors and all...

“…

Not only do the teachers push you mentally in class, they are willing to help you with projects outside of class. They want you to succeed and will do what it takes to see you reach your goals and get closer to your calling. Opportunities to learn...

” – Sarah from NY
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The University of South Carolina-Aiken is a public institution rated as having “selective” admissions that offers programs grounded in the liberal arts and sciences curriculum. USCA promotes individual attention for students through small classes and...

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The University of South Carolina - Aiken is one of the top five schools in South Carolina. No other branch of University of South Carolina can say that. All professors work with you and are easily accessible. Everything that you need will be on the...

” – Jemar from Elko, SC
Erskine College

Erskine College has been preparing students for lives of learning, service, and leadership for more than 180 years. As a Christian liberal arts college, we educate students for careers, but more importantly, we prepare you for your life’s calling...

“…

Erskine College has wonderful opportunities that allow all students to achieve their goals. With rigorous academics and many opportunities for extracurriculars everyone can find their niche here. Professors and faculty are always available to help...

” – H from SC
Winthrop University

Founded in 1886, Winthrop University is a 4-year public comprehensive institution located in Rock Hill, South Carolina, just south of Charlotte, North Carolina.  Winthrop offers bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degrees through both on-campus and...

“…

Not only do you learn about your field of interest, but you also learn how to interact with so many different types of people. Winthrop is all about diversity!

” – Sarah from Columbia, SC
Medical University of South Carolina

The Medical University of South Carolina was founded in 1824 and is comprised of six colleges and a 700-bed medical center. MUSC is one of the oldest schools of medicine in the nation. The school is home to the South Carolina Clinical and...

“…

Its very good college

” – Suchit from CHARLESTON, SC
College of Charleston

The College of Charleston, founded in 1770, is a public university and is the oldest campus in South Carolina. The university offers 62 undergraduate majors and 80 minors from six schools, plus 23 master's degree programs and 9 graduate-level...

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Professors at CofC are truly invested in their students. They urge students to get help during office hours and do their best to make sure you are learning the material. The majority of the courses I have taken are challenging yet interesting which...

” – Sophomore Biology Major
Francis Marion University

Francis Marion University is a public institution focused on liberal arts education. It is located in Florence, South Carolina, and is one of the most affordable colleges in the state. FMU has several partnerships with international colleges and...

“…

I have learn a lot of different things at FMU, from academics to personal life. I have learned how important and high level education is and I have learned that everyone is not your friend. Education is something that no one can take away from you...

” – Shauntavia from North Charleston, SC
Newberry College

Founded in 1856, Newberry College is a 4-year liberal arts college in South Carolina affiliated with the Lutheran Church. Newberry offers undergraduate degrees in over 30 academic majors. For musically inclined students, Newberry is home to nine...

“…

Newberry College's learning experience is very unique. The small class sizes make it easy to have a one on one relationship with your professor. The instructors are always more than willing to spend the extra time and energy to make sure that the...

” – Kali from Florence, SC
Claflin University

Claflin University is a private HBCU and independent institution based in Orangeburg, South Carolina. The school provides a career-oriented liberal arts education. It is a member of the United Negro College Fund and affiliated with the United...

“…

Yes, I've learn so much that I earn 20 credit hrs. as a first semester freshmen in the spring of 2009, and haved accumulated a 3.33 GPA.

” – Michael from Columbia, SC
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Limestone College is an independent liberal arts school located in Gaffney, South Carolina. The school has “selective” admissions and provides a curriculum based on Christian values and ethics. Traditional students attend the “Day” program, while...

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Professors are extremely helpful, and are available to help whenever you need them!

” – Katherine from Trenton, NC