Skip to content
Public, 4-year

University of South Carolina Aiken

Aiken, South Carolina · www.usca.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

78.5%

2025

Peer median 85.8%

Out-of-state tuition

$21,218

In-state $10,760

Peer median $18,658

Undergraduates

3,289

Student-faculty ratio 16:1

Peer median 16 : 1

Graduation rate

25.2%

4-year; 6-year rate 42.4%

Peer median 29.5%

“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

The University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken) is a public university located in Aiken, South Carolina. Known for its strong emphasis on student-centered learning, USC Aiken offers a vibrant and supportive environment that encourages academic excellence and personal growth. The university prides itself on its small class sizes, which foster close relationships between students and faculty, allowing for personalized attention and mentoring. This nurturing atmosphere is complemented by the school's commitment to providing quality education across a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including nursing, business, and education.

USC Aiken is also recognized for its commitment to community engagement and service learning. The campus is home to a variety of student organizations and clubs that promote leadership, cultural awareness, and social responsibility. Additionally, the university features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories, a well-equipped library, and athletic facilities that support a range of sports. The USC Aiken Pacers participate in NCAA Division II athletics, providing students with opportunities to excel in sports while balancing their academic pursuits. Overall, USC Aiken stands out as a dynamic institution dedicated to fostering a holistic educational experience for its students.

Analysis of Key Metrics at the University of South Carolina Aiken

The University of South Carolina Aiken, a public institution, has shown notable trends in several key metrics over the years. One significant aspect is the tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2023, in-state tuition increased from $9,308 to $10,760, marking a rise of approximately 15.6%. For out-of-state students, tuition climbed from $18,340 to $21,218, a more substantial increase of about 15.7%. This upward trend in tuition aligns with the broader national trend of rising college costs, which can present a financial challenge for many families.

Another critical metric to consider is the graduation rate. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students saw a slight fluctuation but ended at approximately 24.4% in 2023, up from 19.4% in 2013. This increase is a positive sign, reflecting improved academic support and student engagement initiatives. However, it still indicates that nearly three-quarters of students do not graduate on time, which may necessitate further examination of student retention strategies.

Speaking of retention, the student retention rate experienced a decline from 67.5% in 2013 to around 60.3% in 2023. This significant drop raises concerns about student satisfaction and support systems within the university. Retention is critical, as it not only affects graduation rates but also the overall reputation of the institution.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, hovering around 15 to 17 students per faculty member. This ratio suggests a manageable class size, which is beneficial for personalized education and student interaction. However, maintaining this ratio amidst fluctuating enrollment numbers will be crucial for sustaining educational quality.

In summary, while the University of South Carolina Aiken has made strides in graduation rates, the increasing tuition and declining retention rates warrant attention to ensure that the institution can continue to provide a supportive and effective educational environment.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
Augusta, about 25 mi
Nearest international airport
Savannah Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), about 110 mi
Aiken, South Carolina
Also known as
University of South Carolina Aiken, USC Aiken, USCA, USC-Aiken, University of South Carolina at Aiken, UofSC Aiken
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Daniel J. Heimmermann (Chancellor)
Phone
8036486851
City
Aiken, South Carolina
Address
471 University Pkwy, Aiken, SC 29801

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
77.8%
Women
78.9%

In 2020: men 55.3%, women 56.0%.

Data insights

Trends in Admissions at the University of South Carolina Aiken

The admissions data from the University of South Carolina Aiken over the years reveals significant trends, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. In 2009, the admission rates for males and females were around 53.88% and 50.88%, respectively, indicating a competitive yet accessible environment for prospective students. However, the years following showed fluctuations in these rates, with a notable dip in 2014, where the acceptance rates fell to 52.44% for males and 50.65% for females, reflecting a tightening of admission standards.
Interestingly, 2022 marked a dramatic shift, with acceptance rates soaring to 80.30% for males and 85.13% for females. This increase could suggest a strategic move by the university to attract a larger and more diverse student body, possibly in response to the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic which impacted enrollment across many institutions. The following year, 2023, maintained relatively high rates at 73.66% and 76.64% for males and females, respectively, indicating a continued effort to welcome students.
Enrollment numbers have also varied, with the highest recorded in 2009 at 760 students, gradually decreasing until 2015 when numbers rebounded to 643. The data showcases the university's responsiveness to the changing educational landscape, striving to balance quality and accessibility. As institutions of higher education navigate post-pandemic realities, these trends highlight the importance of adaptability in admissions strategies.

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

Nursing School#172▼37 Business School#345▲69

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

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 23% submitted SAT, 14% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total980–1220Peer median 1080
ACT composite19–26
SAT Reading
510–620
600700800
SAT Math
470–600
600700800
ACT composite
19–26
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Scores at University of South Carolina Aiken

The data from the University of South Carolina Aiken over the years reveals a notable trend in the admission test scores for incoming students. The SAT scores, particularly in reading and mathematics, have shown fluctuations, with the 25th percentile scores remaining relatively stable but the 75th percentile scores displaying a slight increase over time. For instance, the 75th percentile SAT reading scores have risen from 540 in 2007 to 600 in 2023, indicating a gradual improvement in student qualifications.

However, the number of students submitting SAT scores has significantly decreased in recent years, dropping from 468 in 2007 to just 198 in 2023. This decline in submission rates, particularly where only 36% of admitted students provided SAT scores in 2023, raises questions about the changing landscape of college admissions. The increasing acceptance of test-optional policies nationwide may contribute to this trend, as more institutions recognize potential beyond standardized testing.

Furthermore, the ACT submission rates also depict a similar trend, with years of data showing variability in the number of submissions and scores. The overall decrease in both SAT and ACT submissions may reflect a shift in student preferences and college admission practices, emphasizing a more holistic approach to evaluating candidates.

As universities adapt to these changes, it will be crucial to monitor the impacts on student demographics and academic preparedness. The evolution of testing policies and trends in submission rates will likely continue to shape the admissions landscape at the University of South Carolina Aiken and beyond.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

3,005 applicants in 2025, 78.5% admitted

2,360 admitted 645 not admitted Yield 28.2%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's63313 international (2.1%)
Master's2095 international (2.4%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
180
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
131
Psychology, General
50
Computer Science
38
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
35
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
26
Elementary Education and Teaching
20
Mechanical Engineering
20
Speech Communication and Rhetoric
18
Sociology, General
17

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's191 (2% international)
  • Community Psychology · Master's14 (7% international)
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's4 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from the University of South Carolina Aiken

The graduation data from the University of South Carolina Aiken for 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various fields of study. The most prominent program is Registered Nursing, which produced 109 graduates, indicating a strong emphasis on health professions in response to growing healthcare demands. This aligns with national trends where nursing and allied health fields are experiencing significant growth, driven by an aging population and increased focus on healthcare accessibility.

In the realm of business education, Business Administration and Management stands out, with 225 master's graduates. This suggests a robust graduate-level interest in business, possibly reflecting the growing complexities of the corporate world and the demand for advanced skills in management and leadership roles.

Psychology and Education also showcase noteworthy figures, particularly in the bachelor's degree category. The programs produced 42 and 38 graduates, respectively, indicating a sustained interest in these fields, likely fueled by societal needs for mental health support and quality education. The presence of international students, albeit limited, suggests a budding interest in these programs from a global perspective.

Moreover, the arts and humanities fields, such as English Language and Literature and Fine/Studio Arts, show lower graduation numbers, which may reflect broader national trends of declining enrollment in these areas as students gravitate towards more career-oriented fields.

Overall, the data highlights a clear preference for degrees that align with practical and immediate job market needs, particularly in health and business sectors, while also indicating challenges in attracting students to liberal arts programs. This reflects broader societal and economic shifts that influence educational choices and career pathways.

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

Businesshas 371 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$47,843-$77,723
Health professionshas 131 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$76,793
Psychology has 64 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Community Psychology.-
Educationhas 53 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$41,917
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.$41,917
Secondary Education and Teaching.$41,917
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$41,917
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other.$41,917
Computer and information sciencehas 39 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Computer Science.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 35 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$31,857
Biologyhas 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$36,119
Biomedical Sciences, General.$36,119
Engineeringhas 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mechanical Engineering.-
Engineering, Other.-
Communication has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$41,752
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.-
Social sciencehas 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.$30,362
Visual and Performing artshas 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Art/Art Studies, General.$26,487
Music, General.-
English has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Writing, General.-
History has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Physical scienceshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Geology/Earth Science, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Applied Mathematics, General.-
Liberal arts has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Earth Systems Science.-
Foreign languages has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Spanish Language and Literature.-

Students

4,022 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 66.8%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,289)

White
1,910 · 58.1%
Black
709 · 21.6%
Hispanic
320 · 9.7%
Two or more races
212 · 6.4%
International
60 · 1.8%
Asian
53 · 1.6%
Unknown
18 · 0.5%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
10.9%
18–19
33.2%
20–21
25.3%
22–24
13.9%
25 and over
16.7%

Graduate students

Under 22
1.5%
22–24
14.5%
25–29
22.1%
30–34
15.3%
35 and over
46.7%

Data insights

Demographic Insights at University of South Carolina Aiken in 2023

In 2023, the University of South Carolina Aiken presents a diverse student population with varying gender ratios across different classifications. The undergraduate freshmen consist of 552 students, with a notable female majority of 60.1%, indicating a trend that continues into the upperclassmen category, where 1,859 students are enrolled, 63.9% of whom are women. This pattern persists among transfer students and graduate students, where female representation remains significantly higher than that of males.

The data reflects a broader trend in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses that of males. This may be indicative of societal shifts towards higher educational attainment among women and changing career aspirations. Notably, the graduate student body of 695 is predominantly female, with 66.8% identifying as such, which may point to the increasing professionalization and specialization in fields traditionally dominated by men.

Furthermore, the racial breakdown within the student demographics reveals a majority of white students, but also highlights the presence of other racial groups, although specific numbers are not disclosed for upperclassmen and graduate students. The trends observed at the University of South Carolina Aiken align with national conversations around diversity and inclusion in higher education, emphasizing the importance of fostering an environment that supports all students, irrespective of their backgrounds. As universities work to attract and retain a diverse student body, the ongoing dialogue about equity and representation will be crucial for the future of education.

Analysis of Age Distribution at the University of South Carolina Aiken

The age distribution of students at the University of South Carolina Aiken reveals interesting trends that reflect broader societal patterns in education. Notably, the majority of the student body falls within the younger age brackets, particularly those under 24 years old, which constitutes over 68% of the total student population. This trend is indicative of a traditional college demographic where recent high school graduates are the primary attendees.

In the category of students under 18, there is a significant representation of females compared to males, with 221 females against 106 males. As we transition into the 18-19 age group, the enrollment remains heavily skewed towards females, with 557 females and 350 males. This gender imbalance continues across the younger age groups, reflecting the national trend of higher female enrollment in higher education.

Interestingly, as the age brackets increase, particularly from 22 to 29 years, the number of male graduate students begins to rise, suggesting a shift in academic pursuit among older demographics. The presence of older students often signifies a return to education for career advancement or a change in career path, a trend that has become more common in recent years due to economic shifts and the evolving job market.

Moreover, there is a notable presence of students aged 40 and above, especially among females, demonstrating a diverse age range within the student body. This could be attributed to various factors including the increasing acceptance of lifelong learning and the flexibility of online education, which has made it easier for non-traditional students to pursue higher education.

Overall, the age composition at USC Aiken highlights the dynamic nature of modern education and the importance of accommodating diverse student needs across different age groups.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates1.8%

60 in 2025 · 3.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.8%2017: 3.9%2018: 3.2%2019: 2.8%2020: 2.3%2021: 1.6%2022: 1.9%2023: 1.6%2024: 1.5%2025: 1.8%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students2.9%

21 in 2025 · 2.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.2%2017: 2.3%2018: 0.7%2019: 3.1%2020: 2.1%2021: 1.7%2022: 2.0%2023: 1.7%2024: 2.1%2025: 2.9%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of South Carolina Aiken

The data on international student enrollment at the University of South Carolina Aiken reveals some interesting trends over the years. Starting from 2004, the proportion of international undergraduate students has fluctuated, peaking at 3.81% in 2016, followed by a gradual decline. In contrast, the graduate student population has seen a more significant increase in international representation, with the highest percentage reaching 3.10% in 2019 before dropping slightly in the following years.

One notable observation is the increase in the total number of graduate students, which can be attributed to the growing global demand for advanced education and the university’s efforts to attract more international talent. The data suggests that while the undergraduate international student body has not shown consistent growth, the graduate program has become more appealing to international students, possibly due to specialized programs and research opportunities.

Furthermore, the impact of global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, is evident, especially in the numbers from 2020 and 2021, where a noticeable decrease in international enrollment occurred. This aligns with the broader trends seen across U.S. higher education institutions, where many faced challenges in attracting international students due to travel restrictions and visa complications.

Overall, while the University of South Carolina Aiken has made strides in encouraging international enrollment, the fluctuations indicate the need for continued efforts in marketing and support for international students, particularly in the undergraduate sector, to foster a diverse academic environment.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$30,400

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$21,218
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$10,760
Room and board
$9,182
Graduate tuition
$30,122
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 9% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 15%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$74.5M

Government grants and contracts
$42.9M57.6%
Tuition and fees
$18.7M25.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.4M4.5%
Sales and services of educational activities
$1.9M2.6%
Gifts and private grants
$1.6M2.2%
Investment return
$165K0.2%
Other
$5.8M7.8%

Expenses$72.8M

Instruction
$35.1M48.1%
Student services
$11.4M15.6%
Institutional support
$9.5M13.0%
Academic support
$5.1M7.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.7M6.4%
Public service
$4.1M5.7%
Scholarships
$3.2M4.3%
Research
$1.4M1.9%
Other
-$1.5M-2.1%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$77,010peers $80,690
Professor
$96,494peers $98,841
Associate professor
$74,571peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$76,535peers $74,446
Instructor
$59,102peers $58,934

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Peach Belt Conference

Peach Belt Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer4232
Baseball46-
Basketball1417
Cross Country1113
Softball-20
Volleyball-16
Golf11-
2024
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer2923
Baseball42-
Basketball1416
Softball-22
Cross Country810
Volleyball-17
Golf11-
2023
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer2423
Baseball39-
Basketball1516
Softball-26
Cross Country119
Volleyball-16
Golf9-

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near the University of South Carolina Aiken:

  1. University of South Carolina-Columbia - Ranked 124th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is the flagship institution of the University of South Carolina system and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  2. University of Georgia - With a ranking of 47, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.

  3. Clemson University - Ranked 86th, Clemson is renowned for its engineering and technology programs, as well as its strong athletics.

  4. Emory University - A prestigious institution ranked 24th, Emory is known for its rigorous academics and exceptional healthcare programs, particularly in medicine and public health.

  5. Davidson College - This highly regarded liberal arts college is ranked 16th and is known for its strong emphasis on student engagement and academic excellence.

  6. Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - At rank 33, Georgia Tech is famous for its engineering and technology programs, attracting students from around the globe.

These institutions offer a range of academic opportunities and are well-respected in their respective fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
26
Drug referrals
20
Drug arrests
9
Dating violence
3
Weapons arrests
2
Liquor arrests
2

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Statistics at the University of South Carolina Aiken

The crime statistics from the University of South Carolina Aiken reveal a significant decline in the average number of arrests and offenses per 1,000 students over the years. In 2013, the average was 15.14, which indicates a considerable number of incidents. However, by 2022, this figure dropped to just 2.69, reflecting a substantial decrease in the overall crime rate on campus.

Particularly noteworthy is the trend in gun-related arrests, which have consistently shown a downward trajectory. This is a positive sign, suggesting improved campus safety measures and possibly better community engagement or educational programs addressing violence. Similarly, drug and alcohol-related incidents have also seen a decline. For instance, the average number of drug-related offenses fell from 48.6 in 2013 to just 10.4 in 2022, indicating a successful effort in combating substance abuse within the student population.

However, one area that still requires attention is domestic violence and dating crimes, as these remain critical issues on college campuses nationwide. While the data does not provide specific figures on these offenses, the overall trend suggests that continuous efforts are necessary to ensure student safety and well-being.

In summary, the University of South Carolina Aiken has made commendable progress in reducing crime rates over the past decade. Nevertheless, ongoing vigilance and proactive measures are essential to maintain this positive trend and address the more challenging aspects of campus safety. For further insights on calculating crime rates, refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of University of South Carolina Aiken include Kenny Manigault (Professional basketball player for Fukushima Firebonds), Roberto Hernández (Puerto Rican former MLB relief pitcher) and Rich Batchelor (Former MLB relief pitcher).

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.