South Carolina State University

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South Carolina State University

  • Overview & Academics

    South Carolina State University (SCSU) is a 4-year, public, historically black university (HBCU) located in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Established in 1896 and recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and leadership development, SCSU offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs through its core colleges. Academic programs cover diverse disciplines including STEM, education, business, humanities, social sciences, and agriculture.

    Academic divisions include:

    • College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Transportation
    • College of Business and Information Systems
    • College of Education, Humanities, and Social Sciences
    • School of Graduate Studies
  • Admissions

    Prospective students can apply online via the university’s application portal. The university maintains a moderately selective admissions policy and reviews applications holistically, considering GPA, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), extracurricular engagement, essays, and recommendations.

    • Application Deadline: Rolling admissions, but priority given to early applicants
    • Required: High school diploma (or GED), transcripts, test scores (optional for some applicants), personal statement, letters of recommendation
  • Cost

    • In-State Tuition & Fees (2023-2024): Approximately $11,590 per year
    • Out-of-State Tuition & Fees: Approximately $21,750 per year
    • Room & Board: About $8,500 per year
    • Financial Aid: Merit and need-based scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study available

    South Carolina State University is committed to providing access and affordability, especially for in-state residents and first-generation college students.

  • Student Population

    • Total enrollment: Approximately 2,000 – 2,500 students
    • Undergraduate students: About 1,800
    • Graduate students: About 350
    • Diverse student body, with primary representation from South Carolina and the southeastern United States
    • Prominent African-American/HBCU identity with multicultural engagement
  • Rankings & Distinctions

    • Designated as a Historically Black College or University (HBCU)
    • Renowned for producing African-American engineers, educators, and STEM professionals
    • Top producer of African-American graduates in STEM in South Carolina
    • Recognized for value and social mobility by various educational ranking organizations
    • Home to a chapter of the prestigious Alpha Kappa Mu National Honor Society
  • Campus & Culture

    The SCSU campus encompasses more than 160 acres just north of downtown Orangeburg. It features modern dormitories, academic buildings, research facilities, a student union, a performing arts center, and the I.P. Stanback Museum & Planetarium. The campus is known for its welcoming and vibrant atmosphere, blending tradition with innovation.

  • Athletics & Traditions

    • Nickname: Bulldogs
    • Colors: Garnet and Blue
    • NCAA Division I (FCS) – Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC)
    • Men’s Sports: Football, basketball, track and field, cross country
    • Women’s Sports: Basketball, softball, volleyball, track and field, tennis, cross country
    • Rich Homecoming celebrations, marching band performances (Marching “101”), and spirited Greek life
  • Mission

    SCSU’s mission is to prepare highly skilled, competent, and socially aware graduates to serve in leadership roles throughout society, particularly in science, technology, education, business, and public service. The university emphasizes transformative education, research, community engagement, and global awareness.

  • Leadership & Current Developments

    • President: Alexander Conyers (as of 2024)
    • University has focused on enhancing retention, modernizing infrastructure, and expanding research opportunities through strategic partnerships
    • Recent initiatives include STEM outreach, entrepreneurship programming, and expanded online/hybrid learning options
    • Emphasis on community outreach in Orangeburg and South Carolina’s rural regions
  • Programs

    • Undergraduate: Biology, Business Administration, Communications, Criminal Justice, Elementary Education, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Psychology, Social Work, and more
    • Graduate: MBA, M.Ed., MS in Biology, MS in Transportation, Master of Social Work, Doctor of Education, Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences
    • Special certificate and continuing education programs
  • Campus Life

    SCSU provides rich campus life opportunities, including cultural and social events, leadership development, residential life activities, and public service projects. A vibrant student center, wellness services, on-campus dining, and frequent campus events contribute to an active campus community.

  • Student Organizations

    • Over 60 student-run clubs and organizations
    • National Pan-Hellenic Council fraternities and sororities
    • Academic honor societies and pre-professional groups
    • Student Government Association, Model United Nations, debate team
    • SCSU Marching “101” Band
    • Intramural sports, performing arts, leadership development, and service clubs
  • Admission Stats (most recent available)

    • Acceptance Rate: Approximately 72%
    • Average High School GPA of first-year students: 2.9 – 3.3
    • SAT (middle 50%): 860–1030
    • ACT (middle 50%): 16–20
    • Student-to-faculty ratio: 11:1
    • Freshmen Retention Rate: About 65%