The discussion of how to handle online and distance education in South Carolina began in 1998. Then, the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education approved the principles that would lead postsecondary education into the digital age. Since then, the state has implemented digital learning for its 7-12 grade students, and several of South Carolina's universities and colleges offer online education opportunities. The University of South Carolina, for example, provides a number of undergraduate and graduate degrees online in fields like engineering, public health and education.
Tuition costs in South Carolina have steadily increased in recent years. Two-year public schools experienced a 31% increase in tuition between 2004 and 2014, while tuition increased 37.6% at four-year schools. This inflation is partially due to a 41.6% decrease in the state's higher education budget between 2008 and 2014, the third highest funding cut in the nation. Despite rising tuition costs in South Carolina, enrollment at public institutions has continued to increase. Overall, enrollment at both two- and four-year schools increased 28% between 2002 and 2012, which surpassed the 19% average nationwide. South Carolina has one of the higher state graduation rates at 61.5% and boasts a 78% first year student retention rate.
To find more information on South Carolina's best online degree programs, consult our school database below. Access to scholarships and financial assistance programs are listed in the Higher Education Initiatives section, which includes the Future Scholar plan for students and their families to set money aside early for college expenses in years to come.
Featured Online Programs
55 Colleges in South Carolina
Cathedral Bible College
Myrtle Beach, SC · Tuition & fees: $2,900
Spartanburg Methodist College
Spartanburg, SC · Tuition & fees: $15,930
Additional Resources
Official State Links
College Savings
- Future Scholar: South Carolina's 529 plan allows students and families to put away money early in order to pay for college down the road. The state's plan includes tax benefits and age-based and customized investment choices.
- South Carolina Higher Education Tuition Grants Commission: This organization works with the State General Assembly to provide tuition assistance to South Carolina's students. Need-based scholarships go to students hoping to attend one of the organization's in-state member colleges.
Education Nonprofits
- South Carolina Higher Education Foundation: This nonprofit seeks to increase student participation in higher education and improve the quality of that education in the state. One of its major goals is raising awareness of the importance of higher education. To that end, the Foundation hosts events and workshops for students. They also work directly with schools and the state higher education agency.
Higher Education News
- SC Commission on Higher Education Press Releases: The state organization in charge of higher education publishes press releases related to news and trends among the state's institutions. Education Week South Carolina: This national publication offers the option of filtering content by state, allowing the reader to focus on news pertinent to South Carolina.