South Carolina State University
Acceptance rate
82.6%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$21,750
In-state $11,060
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
2,950
Student-faculty ratio 19:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
18.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 34.4%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
South Carolina State University (SCSU) is a historically black public research university located in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Established in 1896, it has a rich heritage and a commitment to providing quality education to a diverse student body. SCSU's mission emphasizes the importance of academic excellence, community engagement, and social responsibility, and its motto, "Enter to Learn; Depart to Serve," reflects the university’s dedication to producing graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also committed to serving their communities.
The university boasts a vibrant campus culture that is enriched by various student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. SCSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly known for its strong emphasis on engineering, business, and education. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and recreational centers, which support a well-rounded student experience. Additionally, SCSU has a dedicated faculty that focuses on mentorship and research opportunities, ensuring that students receive personalized attention and guidance throughout their academic journey. The university's athletic teams, known as the Bulldogs, compete in NCAA Division I sports, fostering school spirit and community involvement. Overall, South Carolina State University stands out as a place where education and community service go hand in hand, preparing students for successful careers and active citizenship.
Analysis of Key Metrics at South Carolina State University
The data from South Carolina State University reveals several significant trends, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates. Over the years, there has been a consistent rise in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. For instance, the in-state tuition increased from $9,776 in 2014 to $11,060 in 2023, representing a 13.1% increase over this period. In contrast, out-of-state tuition surged from $18,910 to $21,750, marking a 15.5% increase. This escalation in tuition could be a barrier for prospective students, potentially affecting enrollment numbers.
Student enrollment has shown a worrying decline, particularly at the undergraduate level. From 2013, when there were 3,265 undergraduate students, the numbers dropped to 2,374 by 2023. This represents a significant loss of nearly 27% of the undergraduate population over the decade. The decrease in enrollment may correlate with the rising tuition and could also affect the university's funding and resources in the long term.
Graduation rates, particularly the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates, have fluctuated within the same timeframe, peaking at 19.1% in 2019 but declining to 12.7% in 2023. This downward trend is concerning, as it suggests that fewer students are completing their degrees in the expected timeframe, which could further exacerbate enrollment issues due to diminished institutional reputation.
Conversely, the retention rate has shown relative stability, hovering around 68% in recent years. This indicates that the university is successful in keeping a significant portion of its students; however, the declining enrollment numbers suggest that the institution may need to focus on attracting new students while improving overall graduation rates.
In conclusion, South Carolina State University faces challenges regarding rising tuition, declining student enrollment, and fluctuating graduation rates. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the university to enhance its appeal and ensure sustainable growth moving forward.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Columbia, about 40 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Charleston International Airport (CHS), about 60 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Mr. Alexander Conyers (President)
- Phone
- 8035367000
- City
- Orangeburg, South Carolina
- Address
- 300 College St NE, Orangeburg, SC 29117-0001
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 63.2%, women 68.7%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at South Carolina State University
The admission data from South Carolina State University reveals significant fluctuations in enrollment and acceptance rates over the years. Starting with an impressive acceptance rate of approximately 92% for men and 92% for women in 2009, the university initially attracted a robust number of students. However, the data indicates a troubling decline in both male and female acceptance rates by 2014, with rates plummeting to around 53% for men and 49% for women. This dramatic shift marks a period of increased selectivity, possibly due to a decrease in enrollment, which dropped to just 569 students that year.
In subsequent years, the university exhibited a gradual recovery in acceptance rates, with the rates stabilizing around the mid-80s to mid-90s percentiles from 2015 onwards. A noteworthy point is the significant number of denials compared to the total number of applicants, particularly in 2014 and 2019, where the number of denials exceeded 1,500, suggesting a highly competitive admission environment during these years.
The enrollment numbers also reveal a trend of declining admissions, peaking at 966 students in 2010, before experiencing a downward trajectory. The data from 2023 shows a rebound with 902 enrollments, which is promising, yet it still raises questions about the university's overall appeal in a competitive educational landscape.
Overall, South Carolina State University has navigated various challenges over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education admissions. As the institution continues to adapt, understanding these patterns is crucial for future strategies and maintaining its student base.
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
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 Scores at South Carolina State University
The data from South Carolina State University over the years 2007 to 2023 reveals significant fluctuations in both the number of applicants submitting standardized test scores and the corresponding performance metrics. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores peaked at 70% in 2011, while this figure has dramatically declined to just 6% by 2022 and 2023. This decline may reflect broader trends in college admissions, as many institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies in light of the ongoing discussions around equity and access in higher education.
In terms of performance, the range of SAT reading and math scores for admitted students shows a gradual shift. For example, the lower quartile SAT reading scores have shown slight increases over the years, with a notable low of 340 in 2016, climbing to 400 by 2023. The upper quartile scores have also seen improvements, indicating that while fewer students are submitting scores, those that do are generally performing better.
As the university faces these changes, it is essential to consider the implications for future admissions strategies. The decline in SAT submissions may also suggest that prospective students are seeking institutions that align with their values regarding standardized testing. This trend is further compounded by the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to a reevaluation of traditional admissions processes across the country. Overall, South Carolina State University must adapt to these evolving trends to attract and admit high-quality candidates in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
11,017 applicants in 2025, 82.6% admitted
9,102 admitted 1,915 not admitted Yield 11.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Doctoral22 (0% international)
- Business/Commerce, General · Master's21 (0% international)
- Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist · Master's14 (0% international)
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions, Other · Master's10 (0% international)
- Transportation/Mobility Management · Master's5 (60% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at South Carolina State University
The graduation data from South Carolina State University reveals several notable trends across various academic disciplines. The highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded was in Family and Consumer Sciences, with 28 graduates, reflecting a strong interest in areas related to human sciences and community well-being. Furthermore, the data highlights a significant lack of international students graduating from these programs, emphasizing a potential area for growth in recruitment efforts.
In contrast, the Educational Leadership and Administration program stands out with 25 master's degrees awarded, indicating a robust demand for advanced education in leadership roles within educational settings. This trend aligns with national initiatives to improve educational leadership and suggests that South Carolina State University is actively contributing to this critical area.
The data also illustrates the limited participation of international students in various programs, particularly at the bachelor's level, where no international students graduated in most disciplines. This raises questions about the university’s global outreach and the effectiveness of its programs in attracting an international student body, especially in trending fields like technology and engineering.
Additionally, the presence of master's graduates in health-related fields, specifically Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, signals a growing recognition of the importance of healthcare education. With a focus on practical skills and community impact, these programs are likely to continue attracting students in the future.
Overall, the graduation statistics from South Carolina State University provide valuable insights into the institution's strengths, areas for potential improvement, and the evolving landscape of higher education in the region. These trends warrant further investigation into recruitment strategies, program development, and support for international students to enhance the university's academic environment.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $34,421 | |||
| Transportation/Mobility Management. | $34,421 | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Business/Managerial Economics. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $86,174 | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | |||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | $53,964 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $48,515 | |||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $48,515 | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $48,515 | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $37,378 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | $25,134-$53,564 | |||
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions, Other. | $43,394 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General. | $38,497 | |||
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $30,547 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $40,050 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $34,454 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | |||
| Music Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $21,545 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering, General. | - | |||
| Nuclear Engineering. | - | |||
| Industrial Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | |||
| Mechanical/Mechanical Engineering Technology/Technician. | $62,523 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
3,242 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55 · Freshman retention 56.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,767
- First-year undergraduates 942
- Graduate students 292
- Transfers and others 241
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,950)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at South Carolina State University in 2023
The student demographics at South Carolina State University for 2023 reveal fascinating insights into the composition of the student body. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 902, with a nearly equal gender distribution of 48% male and 52% female. This indicates a welcoming environment for new students, with female students slightly outnumbering their male counterparts.
In contrast, the demographics of continuing undergraduates show a higher total of 1,331 students, with a slightly more pronounced gender disparity—45.5% male and 54.5% female. This trend continues into the transfer student category, where 118 students, 43.2% male and 56.8% female, reflect a consistent pattern of female representation across various undergraduate levels.
Graduate students, however, show a strikingly different trend. Out of 275 graduate students, only 29.1% are male, while a significant 70.9% are female. This substantial gender imbalance may reflect broader trends in higher education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
The diversity within these categories is also noteworthy, particularly among the undergraduate freshmen. While specific ethnic breakdowns are not fully presented, the inclusion of various ethnic groups is essential for fostering an inclusive academic environment. The overall statistics suggest that South Carolina State University is not only attracting a diverse student body but is also maintaining a gender balance, although with a noticeable trend favoring female students.
As universities increasingly recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion, understanding these demographic trends is crucial for shaping policies and support systems that cater to all students.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at South Carolina State University
The age distribution of students at South Carolina State University reveals a significant concentration of younger individuals, particularly in the 18-19 age bracket, which accounts for approximately 48.5% of the total student population. This demographic trend is representative of many universities across the United States, where the majority of students are typically in their late teens or early twenties, reflecting the traditional college-age population.
Among the younger cohorts, the representation of female students is noteworthy; there are more female students than male students in the under 18 and 18-19 categories. This trend continues into the 20-21 age group, where 58.4% of students are female. This gender disparity in younger age groups is a recurring theme in higher education, with studies indicating that women are enrolling in college at higher rates than men.
Interestingly, as students age, particularly in categories such as 22-24 and older, male enrollment appears to increase. For instance, in the 22-24 age category, 52.6% of the male students are enrolled in graduate programs, reflecting a shift in academic focus as students mature.
The presence of older students, particularly those aged 30 and above, indicates a growing trend of non-traditional students returning to education, which is increasingly common as individuals seek career advancements or changes. This demographic can enrich the university environment by bringing diverse life experiences and perspectives.
In conclusion, the age and gender distribution of students at South Carolina State University highlights the institution's role in accommodating both traditional and non-traditional students, creating a varied academic community that can foster learning and growth for everyone involved.
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.
2 in 2025 · 0.2% in 2016
3 in 2025 · 0.7% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at South Carolina State University
The data on international student enrollment at South Carolina State University reveals significant trends over the years, reflecting broader patterns in higher education. In the early years, such as 2004, the number of international undergraduates was extraordinarily low, with only one student enrolled, representing a mere 0.03% of the undergraduate population. This percentage saw slight improvements over the years, with a notable rise in 2009, where the international student count reached nine, making up 0.22% of the undergraduate total.
However, the data also indicates fluctuations, particularly in the undergraduate segment. For instance, by 2016, the number of international undergraduates reached five students, which was only 0.19% of the total. In contrast, the international graduate student population displayed a more consistent, albeit small, presence, peaking at 1.54% in 2020. This suggests a more stable interest in graduate programs among international students compared to undergraduate offerings.
The decline in overall enrollment numbers in recent years, particularly from 2020 to 2023, raises concerns about the university's attractiveness to international students amidst changing global circumstances, including the pandemic's impact on travel and education. The percentage of international graduate students, while still low, demonstrates resilience, perhaps hinting at a more robust recruitment strategy for graduate programs.
Overall, South Carolina State University faces challenges in enhancing its appeal to international students, which is essential for enriching campus diversity and fostering global perspectives in education.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$30,750
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $21,750
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $11,060
- Room and board
- $9,000
- Graduate tuition
- $22,570
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 10% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 0%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$183M
Expenses$133M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference
Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference: football, basketball, cross country
| NCAA Division I-FCS | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 145 | 93 |
| Football | 126 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Soccer | - | 24 |
| Tennis | 10 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| NCAA Division I-FCS | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 77 | 82 |
| Football | 112 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Soccer | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Tennis | 8 | 7 |
| NCAA Division I-FCS | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 110 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 34 | 37 |
| Basketball | 13 | 16 |
| Soccer | - | 16 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Tennis | 8 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of South Carolina-ColumbiaColumbia · 36.0 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 118.5 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 125.1 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 134.1 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 138.3 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 139.9 mi
U.S. News #80
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 148.5 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Mercer UniversityMacon · 168.4 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of North Carolina--WilmingtonWilmington · 177.8 mi
U.S. News #219
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near South Carolina State University:
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University of South Carolina-Columbia - Ranked 124th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is well-known for its diverse academic programs and vibrant campus life.
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Wofford College - A liberal arts college ranked 59th, Wofford is recognized for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and a close-knit community.
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Furman University - This 46th-ranked liberal arts university is known for its beautiful campus and rigorous academic programs.
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Davidson College - With a rank of 16, Davidson is highly regarded for its commitment to liberal arts education and its strong sense of community.
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Clemson University - Ranked 86th, Clemson is a comprehensive university known for its research initiatives and competitive athletic programs.
-
Emory University - A prestigious institution ranked 24th, Emory is renowned for its research programs and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
-
Duke University - Ranked 7th, Duke is one of the leading research universities in the country, known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus culture.
These institutions provide a variety of academic opportunities and are known for their strong educational programs.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities 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 South Carolina State University
The crime statistics at South Carolina State University over the past decade indicate a fluctuating trend in criminal activities on and around campus. The data reveals a peak in crime rates in 2018, with a rate of 35.49 incidents per 1,000 students. This marked a significant escalation from previous years, particularly when compared to 2014, which witnessed a low of 10.16 incidents per 1,000 students.
Among the various types of crimes reported, firearm-related arrests appear to be a recurrent issue, reflecting broader national trends concerning gun violence on college campuses. The increase in rates of these arrests in certain years may correlate with rising concerns about safety and security among students and staff alike. Notably, the statistics for 2023 suggest a slight uptick in crime rates, with 12.38 incidents per 1,000 students, signaling that the university may still be grappling with crime-related challenges.
Moreover, the overall crime data suggests that while there have been years of increased incidents, there are also periods of decline, which could indicate effective intervention strategies or changes in campus policy. However, the persistent nature of specific offenses, such as alcohol-related arrests, highlights ongoing issues that require continuous attention and proactive measures.
In summary, while South Carolina State University has seen variations in crime rates over the years, the data underscores the importance of maintaining a safe and secure environment for students. As universities across the nation continue to address safety concerns, the insights drawn from such crime statistics will be vital for developing effective crime prevention strategies. For more on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of South Carolina State University include Jim Clyburn (U.S. representative from South Carolina), Darline Graham (US senator from South Carolina) and Kára McCullough (Winner of Miss USA 2017).
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Jim Clyburn 1940–
U.S. representative from South Carolina
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Darline Graham 1964–
US senator from South Carolina
-
Kára McCullough 1991–
Winner of Miss USA 2017
-
Alma Levant Hayden 1927–1967
Chemist and early African-American woman scientist at NIH
-
Tom Boswell 1953–
Former professional basketball player in the NBA
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Houston Person 1934–
Jazz tenor saxophonist and record producer
-
Emma Wade 1980–
Belizean sprinter at the 2004 Olympics
-
Ernest Everett Just 1883–1941
Biologist who studied the cell surface
-
Roderick Blakney 1976–
Basketball player naturalized as Bulgarian
See all 24 notable alumni of South Carolina State University →
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.