Best Colleges in South Carolina (2023 Rankings)

South Carolina is more than just the fancy beaches and nice weather - it offers a world of exceptional higher education. From vibrant campuses to cutting-edge programs, South Carolina's academic scene is buzzing with opportunities. 

In this article, we'll be your go-to source for the best colleges in the Palmetto State of South Carolina. In no particular order, our methodology looks at size, location, standout programs, student-faculty ratios, and more - giving you the scoop on each campus's unique vibe.

And we have extra resources for you to explore if you need more info on making the right choice.

University of South Carolina

With a rich history spanning over 200 years, the University of South Carolina is a research university located in Columbia city. Boasting a whopping 35,470 students, this campus buzzes with energy.

When it comes to academics, they're no slouch. Offering a staggering array of more than 350 degrees, from accounting to physics, music to photography, they've got your interests covered. 

And guess what? You're not just limited to the classroom - study abroad opportunities await!

Feeling the need to unwind? With 500+ student organizations, arts, and entertainment options, you'll never run out of things to do.

Clemson University

Nestled in the heart of Clemson, Clemson University has over 26,400 students, both in state and out of state. Known for its research-driven programs, they offer an impressive 300+ degrees, ranging from the traditional sciences to unique fields like environmental and natural resources, and even city and regional planning.

But it's not just about hitting the books. Clemson is all about fostering connections. With 500+ clubs and organizations - you'll have no trouble finding your people.

While the student-to-faculty ratio might not be the tightest at 16:1, it still offers chances for meaningful interactions. And here's a highlight - their solid 85% six-year graduation rate shows they're committed to student success.

Furman University

Furman University is located in the city of Greenville, South Carolina, and has an intimate student population of just 2,500 students, offering a uniquely close-knit experience.

Furman is a hub of diverse education, covering areas of study like fine arts, humanities, social sciences, and the hard sciences. You'll also find a bustling extracurricular scene with over 167 student clubs and 13 sororities and fraternities, catering to every interest.

But the real gem here is the strong sense of community. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, you'll forge meaningful connections that extend beyond the classroom.

Wofford College

Discover the world of Wofford College, located just a few minutes away from downtown Spartanburg, South Carolina. With an intimate undergraduate enrollment of around 1,800, this dynamic institution offers a close-knit community for your academic journey.

Wofford has an impressive 67 majors, including biology, psychology, religion, theater, and more. Plus, they offer extracurriculars with nearly 100 student organizations, ensuring there's something for every interest.

But here's the real highlight: a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, guaranteeing personal interactions that enhance your learning experience. Couple that with a solid four-year graduation rate of 77%, and you've got a recipe for success.

College of Charleston

Situated in the historic Charleston area of South Carolina, the College of Charleston has a student count of 10,384. This bustling campus offers a mix of both graduate and undergraduate programs across a wide range of fields.

Diversity is the name of the game with 67 majors to choose from, spanning science, business, arts, language, and more. Beyond academics, there's no shortage of activities, from a 15,000-square-foot fitness facility to a rich calendar of events.

While the student-to-faculty ratio of 14.5:1 offers a relatively good balance, it's the dynamic blend of academics and campus life that truly sets the College of Charleston apart. 

Anderson University

Anderson University is a close-knit community located in the heart of Anderson. Rooted in Christian values, this university blends family, community, work, church, and academics.

With a cozy student count of just over 1,400 (including both graduate and undergraduate), Anderson offers a unique experience where bonds are forged beyond the classroom. Offering a strong selection of 64 programs, standout majors like Christian studies, supply chain management and interior design set the stage for many pursuits.

Here's the exciting part - with an acceptance rate of 64%, your chances of getting in are looking pretty good. 

Citadel Military College of South Carolina

The Citadel Military College of South Carolina, located in Charleston, is a university with a distinct military focus. It boasts about 2,800 dedicated undergraduate students, along with a diverse community of graduate scholars.

Citadel is a powerhouse in education, offering a comprehensive selection of undergraduate and graduate programs spanning science, business, education, history, and beyond, accompanied by a myriad of minors to tailor your studies.

Yet, it's not all work and no play. Citadel fosters a vibrant campus life with engaging events, numerous clubs, and even beach days to unwind.

With a commendable student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, you'll find ample opportunities for one-on-one interaction with your profs.

Coastal Carolina University

Coastal Carolina University is a thriving campus set in the vibrant town of Conway. With a student body exceeding 10,000, this university is a hub of opportunities.

Diversity is at its core, offering over 130 undergraduate and graduate programs in science, technology, business, history, and beyond, including both in-person and online programs. 

But it's not all books and lectures - Coastal Carolina University knows how to strike a balance. They host engaging events and have a variety of clubs and even participate in "Teal Tuesdays" to show their school spirit.

And with a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, meaningful interactions with your profs are sure to happen. 

Winthrop University

Located in the lively town of Rock Hill, Winthrop University is a public school with a bustling campus with just over 5,500 students.

At Winthrop, education takes center stage. They offer a ton of both undergraduate and graduate programs, covering everything from science and tech to education. And hey, if you're into something unique like dance, design, or even medieval studies, they've got you covered.

The best part? Winthrop knows how to keep the fun alive with over 80 organizations to join. Think athletic clubs, performing arts groups, and adventures in study abroad.

And here's a bonus: a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1. That means you won't just be a number - close connections with professors are practically a given.

Lander University

Located in the charming city of Greenwood, Lander University has a close-knit community of around 3,500 students.

They've got a mix of undergraduate and graduate programs that cover the whole spectrum - think arts and humanities, business, education, you name it. 

Beyond the classroom, Lander's got you covered with clubs, festivals, and fun events like open mic nights and concerts.

And with a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, you'll have a chance to connect with your professors on a personal level.

Honorable mentions

Here's a list of some other top schools in South Carolina you might be interested in:

• Claflin University. Boasting around 2,000 students, Claflin offers a ton of undergraduate and graduate programs in STEM, leadership, language, and more. Their unique focus on real-world experience sets them apart, preparing students for success beyond academia.
• Newberry College. With a close-knit community of just over 1,200 students, Newberry College offers a range of programs including arts and communications, business, humanities, and military science leadership.
• Francis Marion University. This public university has a vibrant campus with around 4,100 students eager to learn. Here, you'll find a mix of both undergraduate and master's degree programs, each falling into one of four core categories: education, business, health sciences, and liberal arts colleges.
• Columbia College. Columbia College is a bustling hub of education with a thriving part-time community. They offer a variety of degree options, from bachelor's degrees to master's programs and even associate degrees. Notable programs span finance, graphic design, HR, music, and beyond. 
• University of South Carolina Upstate. Set your sights on USC Upstate, where a bustling campus hosts around 6,000 students. It's a place that offers a little bit of everything - from degree programs and pre-professional pathways to certifications. Whether you're into science, education, nursing, marketing, or even theater, there's a spot for you here.

Other notable colleges include Southern Wesleyan University and Erskine College, boasting tight-knit communities with student populations under 1,200. University of South Carolina Aiken stands out for its vibrant Greek life, while Columbia International University and Charleston Southern University offer spiritually enriching experiences as Christian institutions.

Find your perfect fit among South Carolina's top colleges with College Rover

Ready to take on the challenge of finding the perfect college in South Carolina? Whether you're dreaming of a cozy campus or a busy hub, the options are endless. 

And guess what? College Rover is your ultimate guide to figuring it all out! We've got the tools you need to research schools, explore programs, find SAT and ACT scores, learn about acceptance rates, financial aid options, and find your perfect match. 

So, why wait? Let's kickstart your college adventure with College Rover. Your dream school is just a click away - let's make it happen together!

College Rover gets the majority of its data directly from the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). The DOE publishing schedule "lags" the most current data which some colleges post on their official websites. This may cause there to be a difference in the data you see on College Rover and an individual college website. College Rover's website is updated as the DOE data becomes available and is configured for the College Rover website.