University of South Carolina Beaufort
Acceptance rate
72.5%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$21,776
In-state $10,730
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
2,162
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
29.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 38.5%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB) is a vibrant institution located in the beautiful coastal town of Beaufort, South Carolina. As a member of the University of South Carolina system, USCB offers a unique blend of academic excellence and a picturesque setting that attracts students from diverse backgrounds. The university is well-regarded for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education, offering a range of bachelor's degree programs in fields such as Business Administration, Hospitality Management, and Marine Biology. The small class sizes foster a close-knit community where students receive personalized attention from dedicated faculty, enhancing their learning experience and academic success.
USCB is committed to creating an engaging campus culture that promotes student involvement and community service. The university's motto, "Challenge. Empower. Inspire," reflects its mission to prepare students not just academically but also as active, responsible citizens. Students at USCB enjoy a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and athletic programs, which enrich their university experience. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, providing a conducive environment for both study and leisure. The stunning natural surroundings, including access to beaches and waterways, also offer numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, making USCB not only an academic hub but also a place for personal growth and exploration.
Trends in Tuition Costs and Student Outcomes at the University of South Carolina Beaufort
Over the years, the University of South Carolina Beaufort has witnessed significant changes in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates. From 2014 to 2023, in-state undergraduate tuition rose from approximately $8,972 to $10,730, marking a notable increase of 19.6%. Meanwhile, out-of-state tuition experienced a more substantial jump from $18,824 to $21,776, which is an increase of about 15.6%. This upward trend in tuition costs often raises concerns about accessibility and affordability for prospective students, particularly given the rising debt levels among college graduates nationwide.
Student enrollment data shows a steady increase in undergraduate students from 1,724 in 2014 to 2,053 in 2023, reflecting a healthy growth of 19.1%. This growth could be attributed to the university's efforts to enhance its programs and attract a diverse student body. However, the number of graduate students has remained relatively low, with only 71 graduate students reported in 2023, indicating potential areas for growth in advanced degree offerings.
Graduation rates have shown a positive trend, with the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increasing from 8.3% in 2014 to 22.8% in 2023. This increase of 14.5 percentage points suggests improvements in student support services and academic advising, which are crucial for helping students complete their degrees in a timely manner. Furthermore, the retention rate also improved, climbing from 50.1% in 2013 to 60.5% in 2023, indicating that the university is successfully fostering a supportive environment for its students.
In summary, while tuition costs continue to rise, the University of South Carolina Beaufort has made significant strides in increasing enrollment and improving graduation and retention rates, which are critical indicators of student success and institutional effectiveness. These trends reflect the university's commitment to providing quality education and support to its students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- Charleston, about 70 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Savannah Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), about 20 mi
- Also known as
- USC Beaufort
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Al Panu (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 8432088000
- City
- Bluffton, South Carolina
- Address
- 1 University Boulevard, Bluffton, SC 29909
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 62.4%, women 62.9%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at the University of South Carolina Beaufort
The admission data from the University of South Carolina Beaufort over the years reflects a dynamic and evolving landscape in higher education. The trends in acceptance rates for both male and female applicants indicate significant fluctuations. For instance, in 2009, the male acceptance rate was approximately 72.67%, while the female rate was slightly higher at 74.27%. However, by 2015, these rates had dropped drastically, with the male acceptance rate falling to about 56.88% and the female rate to 57.44%.
This decline may suggest increasing competitiveness in the application process, possibly due to a growing number of applicants or changes in institutional priorities. The years following 2015 show a slight rebound, culminating in 2022 when the acceptance rates for males and females soared to 80.38% and 85.07%, respectively. This spike could be attributed to various factors, including strategic enrollment management or shifts in demographic trends.
Furthermore, the numbers of enrollees and denials provide insight into the university's capacity and demand. The year 2021 saw a notable number of denials, with 693 applications rejected, which could indicate a more selective admissions process as the institution aimed to maintain quality and diversity within its student body.
Overall, these admission trends not only reflect the institution's changing standards and demographic shifts but also mirror broader trends in the higher education landscape, where institutions are increasingly faced with balancing accessibility with academic rigor. As the educational environment continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these trends develop in the coming years.
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
Social Sciences and Humanities1 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
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at the University of South Carolina Beaufort
The data from the University of South Carolina Beaufort over the years reveals notable trends in standardized test scores and the percentage of admitted students submitting these scores. Overall, the number of students submitting scores has fluctuated, with a peak of 301 in 2015 and a significant drop to just 78 in 2017, representing only 16% of admitted students that year. This drop could reflect broader trends in college admissions, where many institutions have moved to test-optional policies, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, which has prompted many schools to reconsider their emphasis on standardized testing.
Examining the SAT reading and math scores, there has been a gradual improvement in the 25th percentile, with scores starting around the low 400s in the earlier years and reaching as high as 480-570 in recent years. The 75th percentile scores have also shown a slight upward trend, indicating a competitive applicant pool. For instance, the 25th percentile score in math has shifted from 410 in 2014 to 480 in 2023, showcasing an improvement in academic preparedness among incoming students.
Moreover, the consistent range of ACT scores suggests that the university attracts a diverse group of academically capable students. Despite these trends, the declining percentage of students submitting SAT scores may indicate a shift in how prospective students perceive the importance of standardized testing in the admissions process. As universities continue to adapt to changing educational landscapes, these trends at USC Beaufort may reflect a broader movement toward a more holistic approach to admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
2,895 applicants in 2025, 72.5% admitted
2,099 admitted 796 not admitted Yield 26.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Computational Science · Master's2 (50% international)
- Reading Teacher Education · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Statistics at University of South Carolina Beaufort
The graduation statistics for the University of South Carolina Beaufort reveal several noteworthy trends across various academic disciplines in 2023. Business Administration and Psychology lead in the number of bachelor's degrees awarded, with 53 graduates each. This prominence reflects a broader trend where business-oriented programs continue to attract students, likely due to the strong job market and diverse career opportunities these fields offer.
In the health sector, Registered Nursing has produced 40 graduates, showcasing the growing demand for healthcare professionals. This aligns with national trends, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has heightened the focus on public health and nursing education. Public Health Education also has a notable presence, with 32 graduates, indicating a rising interest in health promotion and preventative care.
Interestingly, the data shows a minimal representation of master's degrees in disciplines such as Education, with only nine graduates in Reading Teacher Education, suggesting a potential gap in advanced educational opportunities. The absence of doctoral graduates across most fields indicates that the institution may not be focusing heavily on research-intensive programs at this time.
International students contribute modestly to the graduation figures, particularly in Business Administration and Psychology, but their overall impact remains limited. This could reflect broader challenges in attracting international talent, especially amidst changing immigration policies.
Overall, these graduation statistics highlight strong performance in business and health-related fields while signaling areas for potential growth, particularly in advanced degree programs and international student engagement.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Health Education and Promotion. | $39,563 | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $74,461 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,532 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $44,606 | ||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | $45,989 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $33,695 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $38,176 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | $38,031 | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computational Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $34,761 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $45,825 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $45,825 | ||
| Reading Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $21,837 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
2,208 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 34:66 · Freshman retention 61.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,271
- First-year undergraduates 540
- Graduate students 46
- Transfers and others 351
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,162)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at University of South Carolina Beaufort in 2023
The demographic data from the University of South Carolina Beaufort for 2023 reveals significant insights into the composition of its student body. Among the undergraduate new students, there are 476 individuals, with a notable gender distribution of approximately 33.6% male and 66.4% female. This trend continues among undergraduate continuing students, where the total reaches 1,204, with a similar gender ratio of 31.3% male to 68.7% female.
Interestingly, the data indicates that undergraduate transfer students are slightly more balanced in gender representation, with 33.7% male and 66.3% female among 205 students. In stark contrast, graduate students exhibit a much more pronounced gender disparity, with only 15.5% male and 84.5% female, highlighting the increasing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees.
The racial composition reflects a predominance of white students across the different categories, though specific figures for the continuing and transfer students are not available. The data indicates that among the new undergraduates, 276 are white, which suggests an ongoing conversation about diversity in higher education.
Such demographic patterns are critical for universities as they strive to promote inclusivity and equality in their programs. The predominance of female students, particularly in graduate programs, aligns with broader national trends where women are increasingly pursuing higher education. However, the reliance on a majority white demographic underscores the need for continued efforts to attract a more diverse student population that mirrors the society at large.
Student Age Composition at the University of South Carolina Beaufort in 2023
The age distribution of students at the University of South Carolina Beaufort reveals a predominance of younger individuals, particularly those under 24 years old. Notably, the majority of the student body falls within the 18-19 age bracket, comprising 241 male undergraduates and 494 female undergraduates, which constitutes approximately 38.9% of the total student population. This trend is further underscored by the substantial number of students aged 20-21, with 169 male and 412 female undergraduates, demonstrating that the university attracts a youthful demographic.
Interestingly, the data indicates a significant drop in enrollment figures as age increases, with only a handful of students aged 50 and above. The participation of graduate students appears limited, especially among males, where the numbers remain low across all age categories. For instance, there are only 2 male graduate students aged 22-24 and 3 male graduate students aged 30-34.
This age distribution aligns with national trends in higher education, where younger individuals tend to pursue undergraduate degrees directly after high school. Conversely, the lower enrollment in older age groups may reflect the challenges faced by non-traditional students, such as balancing education with work and family responsibilities.
In summary, the University of South Carolina Beaufort showcases a vibrant young student body, essential for fostering an energetic campus environment. However, the university might explore strategies to engage and support older students, potentially broadening its appeal to a more diverse demographic, especially given the growing trend of lifelong learning and adult education in today’s society.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
41 in 2025 · 1.4% in 2016
3 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2020
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at the University of South Carolina Beaufort
The data reveals a fluctuating trend in the enrollment of international students at the University of South Carolina Beaufort over the years. Beginning in 2004, the number of undergraduate international students started at 35, representing approximately 2.89% of the total undergraduate population. However, this percentage saw a significant decline in subsequent years, reaching a low of 0.44% in 2013.
Interestingly, a resurgence in international enrollment began around 2015, with the numbers gradually increasing, culminating in 2023 with 46 international undergraduates, which is 2.24% of the total undergraduate body. This represents a notable recovery and suggests potential improvements in the university's outreach and support for international students.
On the graduate level, the data is sparse, with only a couple of years showing figures for international students. In 2022, the graduate population included 2 international students, which was 14.29% of the total graduate enrollment. In 2023, this figure increased to 5 international students, which is 7.04% of the total graduate population. This indicates a growing interest among international students in graduate studies at the university, albeit from a small base.
Overall, the trends highlight the importance of strategic initiatives to enhance the university's appeal to international students, as the global landscape for higher education continues to evolve. With increasing competition among institutions for international talent, a sustained focus on recruitment and support services is critical for the university to boost its international student enrollment effectively.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$34,501
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $21,776
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $10,730
- Room and board
- $12,725
- Graduate tuition
- $30,146
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 9% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 72%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$53.3M
Expenses$44.3M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Peach Belt Conference
Peach Belt Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 53 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 20 | 20 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 20 | 20 |
| Basketball | 18 | 15 |
| Soccer | - | 33 |
| Golf | 18 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 30 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 8 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 53 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 18 | 17 |
| Basketball | 20 | 12 |
| Soccer | - | 30 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 15 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 11 | 7 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 7 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 54 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 14 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Soccer | - | 24 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 10 | 10 |
| Golf | 11 | 8 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of South Carolina-ColumbiaColumbia · 117.1 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of North FloridaJacksonville · 143.9 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Mercer UniversityMacon · 160.0 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 179.8 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 191.6 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 196.1 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 199.8 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
University of FloridaGainesville · 200.8 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 207.9 mi
U.S. News #169
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding the University of South Carolina Beaufort:
-
University of South Carolina-Columbia (南卡罗来纳大学) - Ranked 124 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its vibrant campus life and strong research initiatives.
-
University of Georgia (佐治亚大学) - With a rank of 47, this comprehensive university is one of the oldest public universities in the United States, known for its strong academics, extensive research facilities, and spirited athletic programs.
-
Clemson University (克莱姆森大学) - Ranked 86, Clemson University is recognized for its engineering and technology programs, as well as its beautiful campus and dedication to student success.
-
Florida State University (佛罗里达州立大学) - This comprehensive university, ranked 53, is known for its strong programs in the arts, sciences, and business, along with a vibrant student community.
-
Emory University (埃默里大学) - A prestigious institution ranked 24, Emory is known for its excellent academic programs, research opportunities, and commitment to social justice.
These universities offer a range of academic programs and unique campus experiences, contributing to the rich educational landscape in the region.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges 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 Rates at the University of South Carolina Beaufort
The crime data from the University of South Carolina Beaufort over the years reveals a fluctuating trend in the rates of various offenses per 1000 students. Notably, the year 2015 recorded the highest crime rate at 37.68 incidents per 1000 students, which starkly contrasts with the significantly lower figure of 10.11 in 2022, indicating a marked decline in criminal activity on campus.
The data shows a concerning spike in 2018, where the rate escalated to 37.36. Such fluctuations may suggest that external factors, such as changes in campus security policies or broader societal issues, could have influenced these statistics. Interestingly, the most common type of arrest recorded was related to gun possession, which raises ongoing concerns about campus safety and the need for effective preventative measures.
The decline in the overall crime rate in recent years could be attributed to increased safety awareness, community engagement, or improved law enforcement strategies. However, the presence of incidents like drug-related arrests and domestic violence indicates that there is still work to be done to ensure a safe environment for all students.
Overall, while the trend appears positive with decreasing rates, the university must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the underlying issues contributing to these crimes. Continuous monitoring and community collaboration are essential to sustain this downward trend and promote a secure campus atmosphere. For those interested in understanding how to calculate crime rates, further details can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of South Carolina Beaufort include Robert Barnwell Rhett (South Carolina politician and secession advocate), Robert Woodward Barnwell (South Carolina senator and Confederate senator) and Lucas Henveaux (Belgian freestyle swimmer).
-
Robert Barnwell Rhett 1800–1876
South Carolina politician and secession advocate
-
Robert Woodward Barnwell 1801–1882
South Carolina senator and Confederate senator
-
Lucas Henveaux 2000–
Belgian freestyle swimmer
-
William Elliott 1838–1907
Lawyer and U.S. Representative from South Carolina
-
Shannon Erickson 1958–
South Carolina state representative
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.