University of South Carolina-Upstate
Acceptance rate
67.3%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$23,090
In-state $11,588
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
4,487
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
29.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 43.2%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of South Carolina Upstate (USC Upstate) is a vibrant institution located in Spartanburg, South Carolina. As a regional campus of the University of South Carolina system, USC Upstate is known for its strong commitment to student success and community engagement. With a focus on liberal arts education, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, education, health sciences, and the arts. The university prides itself on its small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention from faculty and a collaborative learning environment.
USC Upstate's campus is not only equipped with modern facilities, such as state-of-the-art laboratories and a well-stocked library, but it also fosters a rich campus culture characterized by active student organizations, events, and athletics. The university's athletic teams, known as the Spartans, compete in NCAA Division I, promoting school spirit and camaraderie among students. Moreover, the university’s mission emphasizes the importance of leadership and service, which is reflected in its motto, “Transforming Lives Through Education.” Graduates from USC Upstate are well-prepared for the workforce, with many finding successful careers in their respective fields, showcasing the university’s strong emphasis on career readiness and community involvement.
Analysis of Key Metrics at University of South Carolina-Upstate
The data from the University of South Carolina-Upstate reveals significant insights into tuition trends, graduation rates, and student demographics over the years. One of the most notable aspects is the consistent increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, the in-state tuition has risen from approximately $10,198 to $11,583, while out-of-state tuition has increased from about $20,226 to $23,085. This trend reflects a broader national issue of rising college costs, which can place financial strain on students and families.
In terms of academic outcomes, the graduation rates have shown a positive trend, particularly for on-time graduation rates. The rate rose from approximately 22.6% in 2013 to 30.3% in 2023. This increase suggests improvements in student support services and academic programs, aligning with national efforts to enhance student retention and completion rates.
The student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, averaging around 15 to 18 students per faculty member over the years. This ratio is crucial as it can influence the quality of education and the level of individual attention students receive. A lower ratio is typically associated with better student outcomes and satisfaction.
Additionally, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has shown a consistent trend, with female students comprising a larger percentage of the student body, reflecting a shift in enrollment patterns seen across many institutions. In 2023, females made up approximately 67% of the undergraduate population. This trend indicates changing dynamics in higher education and may have implications for program development and campus services.
Overall, while the rising tuition poses challenges, the improving graduation rates and stable student-to-faculty ratios suggest that the university is making strides in enhancing educational quality and student success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Greenville, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 60 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Bennie L. Harris (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 8645035000
- Address
- 800 University Way, Spartanburg, SC 29303-4999
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 56.5%, women 58.9%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Rates at University of South Carolina-Upstate
The admission data for the University of South Carolina-Upstate reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in the acceptance rates for male and female applicants, as well as the number of students enrolling, being denied, or deferring admission.
From 2009 to 2023, there has been noticeable fluctuation in the acceptance rates, with male acceptance peaking at approximately 80% in 2011, while female acceptance rates have been relatively stable, hovering around the mid-70% range. However, the dramatic drop in male acceptance rates to about 47% in 2015 reflects a challenging year for applicants, likely influenced by an increase in applications or a decrease in available slots.
The number of students enrolled also shows variability, peaking at 1011 in 2019 but dropping to 597 in 2022. This may suggest that the university's appeal fluctuates or that external factors, such as economic conditions or shifts in demographics, can heavily influence enrollment figures.
Additionally, the number of students denied admission reached a high of 2,164 in 2015, indicating a highly competitive landscape. The number of deferrals has also varied, suggesting that some applicants might prefer to wait for a more favorable admission cycle or to enhance their application profiles.
Overall, the data reflects both the challenges and changes faced by the University of South Carolina-Upstate in maintaining its enrollment numbers while navigating fluctuating admission rates. This analysis underscores the importance of adapting to trends in higher education and the evolving landscape of student applications.
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
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 7% submitted SAT, 3% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at University of South Carolina-Upstate
The admissions data from the University of South Carolina-Upstate over the years reveals a notable trend in standardized test score submissions and corresponding performance metrics. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores showed considerable fluctuations, peaking at 86% in 2008 and dropping dramatically to just 16% in 2023. This decline could reflect broader trends in college admissions across the United States, where many institutions have moved towards test-optional policies in the wake of discussions about the equity and accessibility of standardized testing.
In terms of performance metrics, the SAT reading scores have consistently shifted, with the 25th percentile scores remaining fairly stable around the mid-400s to mid-500s, while the 75th percentile scores have shown a gradual increase from the low 500s to the upper 500s. This indicates that while overall test participation has decreased, those who are still submitting scores tend to perform better.
Additionally, the ACT scores present a similar narrative, albeit with less data available. The fluctuating number of submissions alongside the 25th and 75th percentile scores suggests that the pool of successful applicants may be increasingly competitive, even as overall participation dips.
Overall, these trends not only highlight the shifting landscape of college admissions but also raise questions about the future role of standardized testing in evaluating student potential. As institutions reconsider their admissions criteria, it will be essential to monitor how these changes impact student diversity and success rates.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
4,682 applicants in 2025, 67.3% admitted
3,149 admitted 1,533 not admitted Yield 24.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's105 (0% international)
- Business Statistics · Master's21 (57% international)
- Nursing Education · Master's16 (0% international)
- Information Resources Management · Master's5 (0% international)
- Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology · Master's3 (0% international)
- Education/Teaching of Individuals with Vision Impairments Including Blindness · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Statistics at University of South Carolina-Upstate
The graduate data from the University of South Carolina-Upstate reveals several interesting trends across various fields of study for the year 2023. Notably, the Registered Nursing program leads with a significant number of bachelor’s degrees awarded, totaling 257 graduates, while also attracting a single international student in this category. This aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in nursing, as healthcare systems worldwide face staffing shortages.
In the realm of education, the Teacher Education and Professional Development program stands out with 85 master's degrees conferred, reflecting the increasing emphasis on educator training and development. This trend is particularly relevant given the ongoing discussions about educational reform and the need for qualified teachers in various disciplines.
Interestingly, the Criminal Justice program has produced 81 graduates, underscoring the persistent interest in law enforcement and public safety careers. This reflects broader societal concerns regarding crime rates and justice reform, making it a timely and relevant field of study.
On the flip side, some areas, such as business and computer sciences, show a lower number of graduates, with only 39 and 21 bachelor’s degrees awarded, respectively. This could suggest a competitive job market where students may be seeking more specialized or emerging fields, thereby impacting enrollment.
Moreover, the data indicates a minimal presence of international students, particularly in master's and doctorate programs, which may reflect the institution's need to enhance its global outreach and appeal to a more diverse student body. Overall, these statistics provide valuable insights into the educational trends and labor market demands shaping the academic landscape at the University of South Carolina-Upstate.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Information/Medical Records Administration/Administrator. | - | ||
| Community Health Services/Liaison/Counseling. | - | ||
| Medical Informatics. | $38,774 | ||
| Nursing Education. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $79,549 | ||
| Nursing Administration. | $79,549 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instruction. | - | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||
| Education/Teaching of Individuals with Vision Impairments Including Blindness. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $41,243-$49,849 | ||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $41,243-$49,849 | ||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $41,243-$49,849 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $41,243-$49,849 | ||
| Art Teacher Education. | $42,067 | ||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $42,067 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $51,162 | ||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $51,162 | ||
| Organizational Leadership. | $51,162 | ||
| Accounting. | $54,269 | ||
| Business/Managerial Economics. | $49,462 | ||
| Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies. | - | ||
| Information Resources Management. | - | ||
| Business Statistics. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $51,018 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $33,498 | ||
| Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology. | $34,020 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $56,446 | ||
| Information Technology. | $56,446 | ||
| Information Science/Studies. | $61,947 | ||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $35,141 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $39,464 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $39,847 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $33,040 | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $35,630 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | $42,028 | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering/Industrial Management. | $78,763 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
4,916 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 34:66 · Freshman retention 69.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,587
- First-year undergraduates 756
- Graduate students 429
- Transfers and others 1,144
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,487)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at University of South Carolina-Upstate in 2023
The student body at the University of South Carolina-Upstate in 2023 reflects a diverse composition across various classifications of students. The total number of first-year undergraduate students is 688, with a notable gender distribution showing that 33.9% are male and 66.1% are female. This trend continues among the upperclassmen, where there are 2806 students, with males making up 33.1% and females 66.9%.
Transfer students also show a similar gender imbalance, with 552 students comprising 33.7% male and 66.3% female. Interestingly, graduate students display an even more pronounced gender gap, with only 17.4% being male and a significant 82.6% female. This data indicates a growing trend of female enrollment, particularly at the graduate level, which aligns with national statistics showing higher female enrollment in higher education institutions.
Moreover, the breakdown of students by race reveals the university's commitment to diversity. Although detailed demographic data for upperclassmen and transfer students are not fully available, first-year students show that 255 are white, representing about 40.4% of their group.
These statistics highlight the ongoing efforts toward inclusivity and the important role of educational institutions in fostering a diverse learning environment. As societal norms evolve, it will be crucial for universities to continue addressing gender disparities and promoting racial diversity within their student populations.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at the University of South Carolina-Upstate
The age composition of students at the University of South Carolina-Upstate reveals significant insights into the demographics of the student body. A prominent feature is the substantial representation of younger students, particularly those under 24 years old. For instance, students aged 18-19 comprise a considerable portion, with 784 females and 338 males, reflecting a youthful and vibrant campus environment.
Interestingly, the data shows that as age increases, the number of students decreases, especially in the older age brackets. Students aged 25-29 still maintain a notable presence with 317 in total, but the numbers drop significantly for those aged 30 and above, indicating that the university primarily attracts traditional college-age students. This trend aligns with national statistics showing that the majority of undergraduate students in the U.S. are typically between 18 and 24 years old.
The gender distribution also provides valuable insights. The figures indicate a higher number of female students across nearly all age categories, particularly in the younger groups. This trend is consistent with broader educational trends where women have outnumbered men in higher education enrollment in recent years, which has been a topic of discussion in various educational forums.
Overall, the data reflects the University of South Carolina-Upstate's commitment to catering to a diverse student body while also highlighting the ongoing shifts in higher education demographics, particularly with regard to age and gender. This composition not only shapes the learning environment but also influences campus culture and the types of support services that institutions may need to provide to meet the needs of their students effectively.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
62 in 2025 · 1.5% in 2016
22 in 2025 · 0.6% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at University of South Carolina-Upstate
The data on international student enrollment at the University of South Carolina-Upstate reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly in the undergraduate and graduate sectors. Starting from 2004, the undergraduate international student percentage was relatively low at 2.16%, but this figure has seen a gradual increase, peaking at 2.11% in 2014, before declining to 1.32% by 2023. The total number of undergraduate students has also experienced growth, reaching a high of 6,036 in 2019, but this was followed by a notable drop in subsequent years.
In contrast, the graduate international student enrollment reflects a more pronounced volatility. For instance, while there was a peak of 8 international graduate students in 2015, the percentage of international students in this category dipped sharply to 0.22% in 2022, highlighting the challenges faced by graduate programs in attracting international talent. The overall trend indicates that the institution might be struggling to maintain its appeal to international students, particularly at the graduate level.
This decline aligns with broader trends observed across many U.S. universities, where the pandemic and geopolitical factors have influenced international student mobility. The importance of fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for international students cannot be overstated, as they contribute significantly to the cultural and academic diversity of the campus. As universities adapt to changing global dynamics, targeted strategies to enhance the recruitment and retention of international students will be crucial for sustaining enrollment rates in the coming years.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$33,623
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $23,090
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $11,588
- Room and board
- $10,533
- Graduate tuition
- $30,140
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 8% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 34%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$112M
Expenses$103M
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 · Big South Conference
Big South Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 114 | 81 |
| Soccer | 43 | 28 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Golf | 10 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 111 | 65 |
| Soccer | 33 | 30 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Softball | - | 32 |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 8 | 8 |
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 83 | 64 |
| Soccer | 31 | 29 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Softball | - | 30 |
| Basketball | 15 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 10 | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 3.3 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 27.1 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 53.7 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 72.5 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 73.2 mi
U.S. News #169
-
University of South Carolina-ColumbiaColumbia · 87.5 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 107.5 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 123.4 mi
U.S. News #34
-
The University of Tennessee-KnoxvilleKnoxville · 128.3 mi
U.S. News #109
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding the University of South Carolina-Upstate:
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Davidson College - Ranked 16th in the 2024 US News rankings, Davidson College is a highly regarded liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.
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Furman University - This liberal arts institution ranks 46th in the nation. Furman University offers a beautiful campus and a strong commitment to undergraduate education.
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Clemson University - Ranked 86th, Clemson University is a comprehensive university recognized for its research programs and vibrant student community.
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Emory University - A prestigious institution, Emory University ranks 24th and is known for its strong programs in health, business, and the liberal arts.
-
University of Georgia - With a rank of 47th, the University of Georgia is a comprehensive university known for its research and diverse academic offerings.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities, from liberal arts to comprehensive research programs, making the area rich in academic resources.
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 Data at the University of South Carolina-Upstate
The crime data at the University of South Carolina-Upstate over the years presents a fluctuating narrative regarding campus safety. From 2013 to 2019, there was a significant spike in crime rates, peaking at 18.91 incidents per 1,000 students in 2019. This year stands out as an anomaly in a generally declining trend, which indicates a need for further investigation into the causes behind this rise—perhaps a change in reporting practices or an increase in actual incidents.
Following 2019, there was a notable decrease in crime rates, with figures dropping dramatically to 1.74 incidents per 1,000 students in 2018, followed by a rise again in 2020, possibly influenced by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, the data shows that the university experienced its lowest rates of reported incidents in recent years, indicating effective measures may have been implemented to promote safety and reduce crime.
Specific crime types, such as drug-related arrests, alcohol offenses, and instances of domestic violence, contribute significantly to overall statistics. The university's response to these incidents, including educational programs and support services, is crucial in fostering a safer campus environment.
While the overall trend suggests improvement, continuous monitoring, and proactive strategies are essential to ensure safety for students and staff alike. Furthermore, as the university community evolves, staying vigilant and adaptable to changing circumstances will be key in addressing any future crime issues. For a deeper understanding of crime rate calculations, more information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of South Carolina-Upstate include Torrey Craig (Basketball player for the Sydney Kings), Rory Scovel (Comedian, actor and writer) and Todd Christopher Kohlhepp (American serial killer).
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Torrey Craig 1990–
Basketball player for the Sydney Kings
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Rory Scovel 1980–
Comedian, actor and writer
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Todd Christopher Kohlhepp 1971–
American serial killer
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Ty Greene 1992–
Former pro basketball player, 2015 Atlantic Sun Player of the Year
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Ricardo Glenn 1990–
American center basketball player
-
Mario Blessing 1992–
German basketball player
-
Chad Sobotka 1993–
Former MLB pitcher for the Atlanta Braves
-
Nick Schneiders 1984–
German basketball player
Recent News at University of South Carolina-Upstate
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
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The Bedford Falls Foundation-DAF gifted $2 million to USC Upstate to establish the Joanne and William Conway Nursing Scholarship Fund, providing 432 scholarships over four years.
Source: uscupstate.edu
No updates on this topic in this month.
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.