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Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) in South Carolina

8 schools in South Carolina. See our methodology.

Claflin University stands out among South Carolina's eight HBCUs with a 49.1% graduation rate and the highest alumni earnings at $40,304 annually. The state's historically black institutions serve 6,706 students across campuses from Columbia to Denmark, with net costs ranging from Allen University's $11,081 to Claflin's $21,232. These schools prepare graduates for South Carolina's growing automotive sector, where BMW and Volvo have major operations, plus the expanding aerospace industry. State residents benefit from the LIFE Scholarship providing up to $5,000 annually. While acceptance rates vary widely from Allen's selective 43.4% to South Carolina State's open 83.9%, all eight institutions maintain their mission of accessible higher education. Smaller schools like Clinton College enroll just 94 students, creating intimate learning environments, while South Carolina State accommodates 2,757 students as the state's largest HBCU.
8
Schools
$17,406
Avg. Net Price
$32,806
Avg. Earnings
24.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) in South Carolina

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Median Earnings
1 460 $15,411 37.8% $35,339
2 1,727 $21,232 49.1% $40,304
3 421 $20,375 20.4% $30,614
4 2,757 $18,268 29.4% $38,262
5 635 $11,081 13.2% $30,497
6 539 $20,601 13.8% $25,351
7 94 $14,501 11.1% $30,180
8 1,573 $17,781 21.1% $31,902

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Claflin University the top HBCU choice in South Carolina?

Claflin University leads with a 49.1% graduation rate and produces alumni earning $40,304 annually, the highest among state HBCUs. With 1,727 students and a 78% acceptance rate, it balances selectivity with accessibility while maintaining strong academic outcomes.

How affordable are South Carolina's HBCUs compared to other options?

Net costs range from Allen University's $11,081 to Claflin's $21,232, making these schools accessible to many families. The state's LIFE Scholarship adds up to $5,000 annually, further reducing costs for qualified residents pursuing higher education.

Is South Carolina State University worth considering despite lower graduation rates?

South Carolina State serves 2,757 students with an 83.9% acceptance rate and produces graduates earning $38,262 annually. Despite a 29.4% graduation rate, its large alumni network and strong industry connections benefit students entering South Carolina's automotive and aerospace sectors.

Where do graduates from these HBCUs typically find employment?

Alumni earnings from $25,351 to $40,304 reflect opportunities in South Carolina's major industries including automotive manufacturing at BMW and Volvo plants, aerospace companies, and the tourism sector. The state's growing economy supports HBCU graduates across various career paths.

Does school size affect the HBCU experience in South Carolina?

Enrollment varies dramatically from Clinton College's intimate 94 students to South Carolina State's 2,757. Smaller schools like Voorhees (460 students) often provide more personalized attention, while larger institutions offer broader resources and networking opportunities for career development.

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.