5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

Clemson University is one of the best colleges in South Carolina. With so many options and so much flexibility available, it can be hard
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Updated January 31, 2023

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Spirited football fans, faithful Christian scholars, and civil war history buffs have all been drawn to South Carolina’s colleges and universities for decades.

With the help of online learning, however, many of these premier institutions can now extend their expertise to students far beyond the Savannah River.

Military service members are studying at the Citadel from the other side of the world and busy moms are being trained in tourism without ever setting foot near Myrtle Beach. With so many options and so much flexibility available, it can be hard to decide on which program in the Palmetto State is the best fit. This list helps answer the question:

What are the best online colleges in South Carolina?

To determine the rankings for these programs, a variety of factors were taken into account, including institutional excellence, student satisfaction, and student success (or return on investment). Institutional excellence is based on reputation, test scores, student-to-faculty ratio, graduation rate, and total endowment. Satisfaction comes from a variety of student and alumni reviews published online and in-print. Success and ROI are based on graduating debt, alumni salaries, financial aid availability, and tuition costs. Data sources for this information include the National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS database, Payscale, individual college websites, and US News & World Report.

Rankings

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

Clemson University

  • Clemson, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus in Clemson, South Carolina, Clemson University supports a variety of online degree programs. Distance learners can choose from 49 online degree programs and join its 7,423-person online learning community.

Distance learners can choose from three online bachelor's programs and 18 online master's programs. Enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community, and connect with classmates, faculty, and staff through a virtual classroom setting. While enrolled, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through coursework, internships, and other learning opportunities. The college can connect enrollees with academic advising, career services, and other learning resources.

Before applying, prospective students should schedule an appointment with the admissions office to discuss application materials and degree requirements. Depending on eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards to offset the costs of study. The college reports that 92% of the student body receives financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,118
Out-of-state
$37,110
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,600
Out-of-state
$22,050
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
25,822
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

Citadel Military College of South Carolina

  • Charleston, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Citadel Military College of South Carolina offers a premier online education, guaranteeing flexibility for students from all walks of life. Presently, the institution boasts 14 online degree programs, reaching 844 distance learners across the globe.

Undergraduate students can choose from three online bachelor's programs, and graduate students can select one of six online master's programs. Upon enrolling, students connect with faculty, colleagues, and staff through a virtual classroom environment. Enrollees complete foundational and advanced classes relevant to their field of interest and can pursue experiential learning opportunities, like internships, to deepen their knowledge. While enrolled, students can connect with career services, academic advising, and other learning resources to receive guidance during their studies.

Prospective students should meet with the admissions office to discuss admission requirements. The college makes internal and external funding opportunities available to students, with 87% of all enrollees receiving aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$75
Out-of-state
$75
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,740
Out-of-state
$18,390
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
3,767
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

University of South Carolina

  • Columbia, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of South Carolina, a public college, supports flexible online learning opportunities for students worldwide. The South Carolina-based school supports 50 online degree programs, reaching 11,313 online students near and far.

Of these online programs, three are bachelor's programs and 27 are master's programs. Students learn alongside fellow distance learners in a virtual classroom environment, where they connect with faculty and staff. Distance learners gain knowledge in and outside of the classroom, through coursework, research projects, and internships. Students can also benefit from personal and professional development by connecting with academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

Applicants should consult the admissions office to discuss degree requirements and application materials. Enrollees can connect with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities to make their education more affordable. According to the institution, 95% of all incoming enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,288
Out-of-state
$33,528
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,737
Out-of-state
$29,760
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
35,364
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

University of South Carolina Upstate

  • Spartanburg, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of South Carolina Upstate offers a premier online education, guaranteeing flexibility for students from all walks of life. Presently, the institution boasts 10 online degree programs, reaching 3,075 distance learners across the globe.

Currently, the school provides eight online bachelor's programs and two online master's programs. Students learn alongside fellow distance learners in a virtual classroom environment, where they connect with faculty and staff. Through coursework and experiential learning opportunities, students gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their industry of choice. Students can connect with academic advising, career services, and other resources to receive guidance throughout their studies.

Prospective students can connect with the admissions office, or speak with their program of choice directly, to learn more about the application process. To defray the costs of education, students can speak with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. On average, 98% of enrollees receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,208
Out-of-state
$22,710
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,734
Out-of-state
$29,760
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
6,308
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

University of South Carolina Aiken

  • Aiken, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus in Aiken, South Carolina, the University of South Carolina Aiken supports a variety of online degree programs. The public institution supports four degree programs from its main campus in Aiken, South Carolina, attracting 1,575 distance learners across the globe.

Students can choose from one online bachelor's program and three online master's programs. Students benefit from a supportive learning community, while connecting with colleagues and faculty through a virtual classroom environment. Students benefit from a well-rounded education, completing foundational and advanced classes. Students can also benefit from personal and professional development by connecting with academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

Interested applicants can meet with the Office of Admissions to discuss admission requirements and degree eligibility. The college makes internal and external funding opportunities available to students, with 97% of all enrollees receiving aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,398
Out-of-state
$20,856
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,734
Out-of-state
$29,760
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
3,720
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

Lander University

  • Greenwood, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Lander University is a public college, supporting online degree options from its main campus in Greenwood, South Carolina. Distance learners can choose from four online degree programs and join its 1,442-person online learning community.

The institution supports one remote bachelor's degree program and three remote master's degree programs. Distance learners connect with fellow students, faculty, and staff through a virtual classroom environment. Learners can individualize their studies through course electives, degree minors, and experiential learning opportunities like internships. Enrollees can also access institutional resources such as career services and academic advising, to receive academic and career guidance.

Prospective students can connect with the admissions office, or speak with their program of choice directly, to learn more about the application process. Eligible students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid towards tuition and other educational expenses. The institution reports that 100% of enrollees benefit from some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,700
Out-of-state
$20,300
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,856
Out-of-state
$16,844
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
43%
Students Enrolled
3,226
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

Francis Marion University

  • Florence, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Francis Marion University, located in Florence, South Carolina, provides online degree options for distance learners worldwide. The public institution supports four online degree programs from its main campus in Florence, reaching 1,014 remote students.

A leader in online education, the college offers three online master's programs. Students connect with faculty, peers, and staff through a virtual learning environment, where they receive support and guidance. Distance learners complete general education and advanced coursework, satisfy curriculum requirements, and can pursue experiential learning opportunities relevant to their field. The college connects students with institutional resources geared towards student success, such as career services and academic advising.

Interested applicants can meet with the Office of Admissions to discuss admission requirements and degree eligibility. Depending on eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards to offset the costs of study. Of all enrollees, 100% receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,384
Out-of-state
$20,768
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,612
Out-of-state
$21,224
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
4,240
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
24% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

Coastal Carolina University

  • Conway, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus
Coastal Carolina University provides flexible online study options for students from all walks of life. The public institution supports 14 degree programs from its main campus in Conway, South Carolina, attracting 4,337 distance learners across the globe.

A leader in online education, the institution boasts online bachelor's and master's degree programs. Students benefit from a supportive learning community, while connecting with colleagues and faculty through a virtual classroom environment. While enrolled, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through coursework, internships, and other learning opportunities. Students also receive guidance from academic advising, career services, and other resources.

Interested applicants can meet with the Office of Admissions to discuss admission requirements and degree eligibility. Eligible students can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid. Of all students, 100% benefit from financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,460
Out-of-state
$27,214
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,674
Out-of-state
$19,746
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
10,484
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

Columbia International University

  • Columbia, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus, Columbia International University provides top-ranked online degree programs to 1,091 distance learners. The college boasts three online degree programs, reaching 1,091 distance learners worldwide.

Of its online programs, one is a bachelor's program and one is a master's program. Students benefit from a supportive learning community, while connecting with colleagues and faculty through a virtual classroom environment. Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, with the option to modify classes and select major electives, minors, and degree concentrations. The college connects learners with institutional resources geared towards student success, such as career services and academic advising.

Students seeking to apply should connect with the financial aid office or their program of interest to learn about degree requirements, application materials, and other information. Eligible students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid towards their learning expenses. The institution reports that 100% of enrollees benefit from some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,090
Out-of-state
$23,090
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,360
Out-of-state
$9,360
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
48%
Students Enrolled
1,649
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

Charleston Southern University

  • Charleston, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Charleston Southern University, a private college, supports flexible online learning opportunities for students worldwide. The institution supports 1,491 distance learners across numerous learning tracks.

The institution supports five remote bachelor's degree programs and seven remote master's degree programs. Students receive support throughout their studies, learning alongside peers in a virtual classroom environment. Students can individualize their studies through course electives, degree minors, and experiential learning opportunities like internships. Degree-seekers can receive guidance throughout their studies by connecting with academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

Students interested in applying should meet with the admissions office to discuss application materials and admission requirements. Eligible enrollees can receive internal and external funding to defray the costs of education. The college reports that 99% of learners receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,000
Out-of-state
$26,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,500
Out-of-state
$7,500
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
3,477
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

Converse College

  • Spartanburg, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Converse College, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, provides online degree options for distance learners worldwide. The private institution supports two online degree programs from its main campus in Spartanburg, reaching 900 remote students.

A leader in online education, the college offers one online master's program. Students connect with faculty and staff through a virtual classroom environment, while learning alongside classmates and attending remote lectures. Distance learners benefit from well-rounded curricula, completing foundational and advanced classes, and pursue experiential learning opportunities such as internships. Students can connect with academic advising, career services, and other resources to receive guidance throughout their studies.

Prospective students can connect with the admissions office, or speak with their program of choice directly, to learn more about the application process. Eligible students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid towards tuition and other educational expenses. Around 99% of all incoming enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,890
Out-of-state
$18,890
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,736
Out-of-state
$8,736
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
1,455
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

Limestone College

  • Gaffney, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students from all walks of life will benefit from Limestone College's flexible online degree programs. The private institution supports 12 degree programs from its main campus in Gaffney, South Carolina, attracting 768 distance learners across the globe.

Undergraduates can choose from one of nine online bachelor's programs, with graduate students benefiting from one online master's program track. Students benefit from a supportive learning community, while connecting with colleagues and faculty through a virtual classroom environment. Students receive a well-rounded education by completing industry-relevant coursework, with the option to pursue internships, faculty-led research projects, and other experiential learning opportunities. Students also receive guidance from academic advising, career services, and other resources.

Applications should consult the admissions office to discuss degree requirements and application materials. Depending on eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards to offset the costs of study. Out of all students, 99% are awarded aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,200
Out-of-state
$25,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,350
Out-of-state
$12,350
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
2,206
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#13 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

Winthrop University

  • Rock Hill, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Winthrop University offers a variety of online degree programs suitable for a range of learners. The public institution supports six online degree programs from its main campus in Rock Hill, reaching 2,397 remote students.

A leader in online education, the college offers four online master's programs. Degree-seekers benefit from a supportive online learning community, where they connect with fellow distance learners and faculty through a virtual classroom setting. Enrollees complete foundational and advanced classes relevant to their field of interest, and can pursue experiential learning opportunities, like internships, to deepen their knowledge. A leader in student success, the college connects students with academic advising, career services, and other success-oriented resources.

Applicants should consult the admissions office to discuss degree requirements and application materials. Depending on eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards to offset the costs of study. Around 99% of all incoming enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,306
Out-of-state
$29,636
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,318
Out-of-state
$29,506
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
5,865
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

North Greenville University

  • Tigerville, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus in Tigerville, South Carolina, North Greenville University supports a variety of online degree programs. Distance learners can choose from 18 online degree programs and join its 396-person online learning community.

Students can choose from seven online bachelor's programs and 11 online master's programs. Distance learners join a supportive online learning community, connecting with fellow classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom setting. Students benefit from a well-rounded education, completing foundational and advanced classes. Students can receive guidance throughout their studies by connecting with academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

To discuss admission requirements, degree eligibility, and other information, prospective students should meet with the admissions office. Enrollees can meet with the financial aid office to explore scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid packages. The college reports that 99% of learners receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$21,120
Out-of-state
$21,120
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,800
Out-of-state
$10,800
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
2,426
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
16% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#15 5 Best Online Colleges In South Carolina

Anderson University

  • Anderson, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Anderson University is a wise choice for students seeking flexible online study. Presently, the institution boasts 11 online degree programs, reaching 1,545 distance learners across the globe.

The college supports eight remote bachelor's programs and two remote master's programs. Enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community, and connect with classmates, faculty, and staff through a virtual classroom setting. While enrolled, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through coursework, internships, and other learning opportunities. Enrollees can receive guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.

Interested applicants can meet with the Office of Admissions to discuss admission requirements and degree eligibility. Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. Of all students, 100% benefit from financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,130
Out-of-state
$26,130
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,651
Out-of-state
$9,651
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
3,543
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

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