Overview
Founded in 1896 as the state's only public historically Black college, South Carolina State University emerged from the Morrill Land-Grant Act as an institution to provide higher education and agricultural and mechanical training to Black South Carolinians. Over more than a century, it has grown into a comprehensive university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees, with a particular legacy in producing Black educators, engineers, and military officers, including a strong ROTC tradition. The university is also known for its role in civil rights history, notably the 1968 Orangeburg Massacre, which remains a significant part of campus memory and identity.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Orangeburg, South Carolina |
| Founded | 1896 |
| Total students | 2,300 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 14:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 56% |
| Graduation rate | 42% |
| Average starting salary | $42,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $8,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $18,500 |
| Room & board | $10,500 |
| Average financial aid | $9,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 90% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 850-1000 |
| ACT range | 15-19 |
| Average GPA | 2.90 |
| Regular deadline | August 1 |
Top Programs
- Engineering Technology
- Education
- Business Administration
- Biology
- Criminal Justice
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.