Medical University of South Carolina
U.S. News Global 2027
#520
Down 47 from 2026
ARWU World 2026
#501
Same as 2025
Out-of-state tuition
$30,380
In-state $16,972
Peer median $28,011
Undergraduates
303
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 7 : 1
“Peers” are all 15 public special focus research institutions in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) is a prominent institution located in Charleston, South Carolina. Established in 1824, it is one of the oldest medical schools in the United States, focusing on providing exceptional education and training in various health-related fields. MUSC is renowned for its comprehensive healthcare programs, including medicine, nursing, dental medicine, pharmacy, and health professions. The university's mission is to improve the health of the communities it serves through education, research, and patient care, emphasizing a holistic approach to health and wellness.
MUSC boasts state-of-the-art facilities that support its commitment to innovative education and research. The campus features advanced simulation centers, research laboratories, and a medical center that provides a wide range of clinical services. The university is also committed to community engagement, often collaborating with local organizations to address public health issues. With a strong emphasis on interprofessional collaboration, MUSC promotes teamwork among students from various health disciplines, preparing them for the dynamic healthcare environment. Furthermore, the university's strategic location in Charleston, a historic and vibrant city, enhances the student experience, offering a rich cultural environment combined with opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. The commitment to excellence in education, research, and community service makes the Medical University of South Carolina a distinguished leader in healthcare education.
Analysis of Tuition Trends and Gender Ratios at Medical University of South Carolina
Over the years, the Medical University of South Carolina has experienced noticeable changes in tuition fees and gender ratios among its student body. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from approximately $15,784 in 2014 to about $16,947 in 2023, reflecting a consistent trend seen in many public universities across the United States. However, the significant spike in out-of-state tuition, which jumped from $23,200 in 2014 to $29,509 in 2022, raises concerns about affordability for non-resident students. This increase might deter prospective students, especially considering the rising costs of higher education nationwide.
In terms of gender representation, the university has seen a remarkable shift in the gender composition of its undergraduate student body. The percentage of male undergraduates dropped dramatically from around 24% in 2014 to just over 10% in 2023, indicating a growing female predominance. This trend is consistent with broader educational patterns where women are increasingly enrolling in higher education and often outnumbering men in various fields. The graduate programs also show a similar trend, with women comprising a larger share of the student population, which can have implications for future workforce demographics in the medical field.
Furthermore, the student-to-faculty ratio has fluctuated over the years, peaking at 10 students per faculty member in 2017 and later declining to 8 by 2023. A lower student-to-faculty ratio often signifies more personalized attention for students, which is critical in health education. Maintaining an optimal ratio is essential for enhancing the quality of education and student outcomes.
Overall, the trends indicate that while tuition costs are rising, the changing dynamics of the student population are shaping the educational landscape at the Medical University of South Carolina, potentially influencing future enrollment strategies and academic offerings.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- In Charleston
- Nearest international airport
- Charleston International Airport (CHS), about 9 mi
- Also known as
- MUSC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- David J. Cole, MD (President)
- Phone
- 8437922300
- City
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Address
- 179 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC 29425
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty6 programs—
Science1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Medicine · Doctoral176 (0% international)
- Physician Assistant · Master's87 (0% international)
- Dentistry · Doctoral79 (0% international)
- Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral75 (0% international)
- Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral69 (0% international)
- Pharmacy · Doctoral65 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Medical University of South Carolina
The graduation data from the Medical University of South Carolina reveals significant trends in healthcare education for 2023. Notably, the Registered Nursing program has the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded, with 188 graduates, indicating a strong emphasis on nursing amid rising healthcare demands. The nursing field remains crucial, especially in the context of the ongoing global healthcare crisis, underscoring the university's role in training future healthcare professionals.
In contrast, advanced degrees such as doctorates in Medicine and Dentistry show a noteworthy number of graduates—154 and 79, respectively—illustrating the university's commitment to producing highly qualified specialists. The presence of 2 international students among the doctorate graduates in Medicine highlights the university's growing global appeal, even in highly competitive fields.
Furthermore, the data indicates a lack of bachelor's degrees awarded in various programs, particularly in medicine and therapy-related fields. This gap may suggest a need for the university to enhance its offerings or recruitment strategies to attract more undergraduates in these areas. The absence of any international students in multiple master's and bachelor's programs could point to barriers in access or awareness for prospective candidates.
Overall, the data reflects a robust commitment to nursing and medical education, while also highlighting areas for potential growth and diversification in enrollment strategies for other healthcare disciplines. As the healthcare landscape evolves, institutions like the Medical University of South Carolina are pivotal in addressing workforce shortages and meeting the demands of diverse patient populations.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Other. | - | |||
| Medical Microbiology and Bacteriology. | - | |||
| Pharmacology. | - | |||
| Biostatistics. | - | |||
| Epidemiology. | - | |||
| Neuroscience. | - |
Students
3,246 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 10:90
- Continuing undergraduates 181
- Graduate students 2,943
- Transfers and others 122
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (303)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Gender and Ethnic Diversity Among Students at Medical University of South Carolina
The 2023 enrollment data from the Medical University of South Carolina reveals significant insights into the gender and ethnic composition of its student body. The graduate program stands out with a total of 2,875 students, where male representation is approximately 31.7%, while females make up a substantial 68.3%. This gender disparity is reflective of broader trends in higher education, particularly in healthcare-related fields, where female enrollment often exceeds that of males.
In contrast, the undergraduate categories exhibit a stark gender imbalance. For upperclassmen, only 11.1% are male, while a striking 88.9% are female. Similarly, the transfer students' population shows even lower male representation at 9.8% compared to 90.2% female students. These statistics may indicate a growing trend of women pursuing undergraduate degrees, particularly in fields related to health and medicine.
Examining the ethnic breakdown within these categories, the majority of the graduate students are White, followed by other ethnicities, including Asian, Latinx, and African American. However, specific numbers for undergraduate students' ethnicities remain unavailable. The significant presence of White students in the graduate program may reflect historical patterns in medical education, though increasing diversity is essential for fostering a more inclusive environment.
Overall, while the Medical University of South Carolina showcases a predominance of female students, especially in undergraduate programs, further efforts may be needed to enhance gender balance and support a broader ethnic diversity within its student body. This trend aligns with national discussions on equity in education and the importance of representation in healthcare professions.
Demographic Trends in Student Age Composition at MUSC
The age composition of students at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) reveals a diverse and interesting landscape. The data indicates a significant concentration of students in the 22-24 age group, particularly among graduate students, where there are 290 male and 873 female students. This suggests that the university attracts a large number of traditional-age students who are pursuing advanced degrees, which aligns with national trends in higher education where younger students increasingly seek graduate education.
Another noteworthy observation is the representation of students aged 25-29, where both male and female graduate student populations are robust, indicating the growing trend of non-traditional students returning to education later in life. This demographic shift is consistent with reports of increasing numbers of older students in higher education, reflecting changing career paths and the need for advanced qualifications in many fields.
The data also shows a smaller representation of students in the older age categories, such as those aged 50-64 and above 65, suggesting that while there is some participation from older individuals, it remains relatively low. This could be attributed to various factors, including the demanding nature of medical education and the physical and cognitive challenges that may arise with age.
Overall, the student age composition at MUSC highlights the dynamic nature of medical education, where traditional and non-traditional students coexist, contributing to a rich educational environment. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, understanding these demographic trends will be crucial for tailoring educational programs that meet the needs of a diverse student body.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 15 public special focus research institutions in the U.S.
1 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
85 in 2025 · 2.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at the Medical University of South Carolina
The data reveals interesting trends regarding international students at the Medical University of South Carolina over the years. In the early years of the data, particularly in 2004, the proportion of international graduate students was relatively low at just 3.34%. However, this percentage saw fluctuations in subsequent years, peaking in 2012 at 4.84% before declining again.
The undergraduate international student population presented a more erratic pattern, with limited data available. In 2005, only 0.28% of undergraduates were international students, but this figure remained relatively low throughout the years, indicating a potential area for growth.
The fluctuating numbers of international graduate students highlight the impact of various factors, such as global events, changes in immigration policies, and the overall attractiveness of the university's programs. For instance, the increase in international students in 2012 may correlate with broader trends in higher education, where U.S. institutions were becoming more appealing to foreign students seeking quality education.
Interestingly, by 2023, the graduate international student proportion was at 2.19%, which, although lower than previous highs, shows a degree of resilience in attracting international talent despite potential barriers. This resilience could be indicative of the university's ongoing efforts to enhance its global presence and support systems for international students.
Overall, while the Medical University of South Carolina has experienced fluctuations in its international student demographics, the data suggests ongoing potential for growth and adaptation in meeting the needs of a diverse student body. This is crucial as global collaboration in healthcare education becomes increasingly vital.
Cost
2025 tuition (out-of-state)
$30,380
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $30,380
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $16,972
- Graduate tuition
- $25,568
Tuition rose 31% from 2016 to 2025.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$959M
Expenses$943M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 15 public special focus research institutions in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of South Carolina-ColumbiaColumbia · 104.4 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of North Carolina--WilmingtonWilmington · 155.4 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 179.9 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 188.6 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 194.5 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
University of North FloridaJacksonville · 196.5 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 205.7 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 211.4 mi
U.S. News #80
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 213.7 mi
U.S. News #52
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near the Medical University of South Carolina:
-
University of South Carolina-Columbia - Ranked 124th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, making it a key educational institution in the state.
-
Duke University - A prestigious university ranked 7th nationally, Duke is known for its rigorous academic programs and research initiatives, particularly in fields such as medicine, law, and business.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - This top-ranked public university is recognized for its strong emphasis on research and public service, holding the 22nd position in the 2024 rankings.
-
Clemson University - Ranked 86th, Clemson is known for its engineering and business programs, offering a vibrant campus life and strong community engagement.
-
Wake Forest University - With a ranking of 47th, Wake Forest is a renowned private university that emphasizes a liberal arts education integrated with professional studies.
-
Davidson College - This highly selective liberal arts college is ranked 16th and is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to developing well-rounded individuals.
These institutions contribute significantly to the educational landscape of the region, offering diverse programs and excellent opportunities for students.
Peer median 11.5 · all 15 public special focus research institutions in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Medical University of South Carolina
The crime statistics from the Medical University of South Carolina over the years reveal a concerning trend, particularly in the increase of crime rates on campus. From 2013 to 2021, there was a significant escalation in the average number of crimes reported per 1,000 students, peaking at 24.98 in 2021. This represents an alarming rise in crime, especially considering the diverse nature of offenses including drug arrests, alcohol-related incidents, and violent crimes such as assaults and domestic violence.
The data indicates that while there has been a reduction in the overall crime rate in 2022 and 2023, the figures from previous years, especially 2021, highlight a critical need for improved safety measures and preventive strategies. The rise in incidents like domestic violence and assaults suggests that the university community may require enhanced support systems and awareness programs to address these issues effectively.
Moreover, the fluctuation in crime rates may correlate with broader societal factors, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and social interactions. The spike in offenses during 2021 could also be reflective of increased reporting or heightened tensions within campus life during that period.
In conclusion, while recent years show a decrease in reported incidents, the overall trend raises important questions about student safety, community resources, and the university's commitment to fostering a secure environment. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures will be essential in addressing these challenges. For more information on how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Medical University of South Carolina include Annie Andrews (Pediatrician and Democratic politician), Thomas J. Strait (U.S. representative from South Carolina) and Ransome Judson Williams (102nd governor of South Carolina).
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Annie Andrews 1980–
Pediatrician and Democratic politician
-
Thomas J. Strait 1846–1924
U.S. representative from South Carolina
-
Ransome Judson Williams 1892–1970
102nd governor of South Carolina
-
Mitchell Campbell King 1815–1901
Planter and physician in the Carolinas
-
Francis Peyre Porcher 1825–1895
Surgeon and botanist
-
Dorothy A. Hogg 1959–
23rd Surgeon General of the United States Air Force
-
Theodore Gaillard Thomas 1831–1903
Gynecologist
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.