Best Community Colleges in South Carolina: Admission Requirements, Transfer Options, and Online Degrees

Once you’ve decided that you want to go to college, it can quickly become overwhelming to decide where to pursue your studies. While four-year colleges with bachelor’s degree programs are the most common path, attending one of the best community colleges in South Carolina is worth considering. These schools offer two-year associate degree programs, alongside other certificates and training.

Most community colleges in South Carolina are partnered with four-year universities. This allows students with associate degrees from community colleges to transfer their credits to bachelor’s degree programs at universities, saving students a significant amount of money.

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South Carolina community colleges are a great option for those who want to jump into the workforce or pursue higher education. Below, we’ll go over everything you’ll need to know to choose the South Carolina community college you want to attend. We’ll also include a list of the best online community colleges in South Carolina for anyone interested in distance learning.

How Many Community Colleges Are in South Carolina?

There are 32 community colleges in South Carolina, according to US News & World Report. These community colleges offer many transfer programs that allow students to smoothly transition to universities for their bachelor’s degrees, after graduating from their associate degree programs.

How Many Community College Districts Are in South Carolina?

There are no community college districts in South Carolina. However, there is a South Carolina Technical College System that is composed of 16 colleges in the state. These member colleges offer a wide variety of programs in different fields.

What Is the Biggest Community College in South Carolina?

The biggest community college in South Carolina is Trident Technical College, according to the NCES. The institution is home to nearly 12,000 students, based on 2021 data.

What Are the Best Community Colleges in South Carolina?

Ranking	Community College	Graduation Rate	Student-to-Faculty Ratio
1	Fortis College-Columbia	56%	25:1
2	Aiken Technical College	22%	11:1
3	York Technical College	28%	19:1
4	Piedmont Technical College	28%	17:1
5	Denmark Technical College	24%	9:1
6	Trident Technical College	21%	20:1
7	Central Carolina Technical College	23%	14:1
8	Florence-Darlington Technical College	16%	18:1
9	Greenville Technical College	14%	14:1
10	Midlands Technical College	15%	19:1

The Best Community Colleges in South Carolina: Explained

With so many community colleges in the state, it can be difficult to determine which community colleges in South Carolina is right for you. Below, we’ll list the top 10 schools in the area and delve into their stats to help you find the best fit for you.

Fortis College-Columbia | Grad Rate: 56%

As one of Forts College’s 40 locations, Fortis College-Columbia is ideal for those seeking to pursue or advance their careers in medicine, dentistry, and skilled trades. The school prides itself on its advanced, industry-standard technology, which allows students to become familiar with the equipment they’ll encounter in their careers before they graduate. The school offers a vast support network to help students needing career guidance, including job databases, networking opportunities, and advisors.

Fortis College- Columbia Overview

Tuition: $14,216/year
Student Population: 569
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 87%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: No minimum requirement

Best Fortis College-Columbia Programs

Nursing Program. Develop the personal, academic, and clinical skills necessary to care for patients through this two-year degree. This program is an excellent choice as there is a high demand for nurses in the healthcare sector.
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Training Program. This program helps students become trained HVAC technicians by learning how to repair cooling and heating equipment for residential and commercial buildings. It also covers the latest development in HVAC technology.
Medical Assistant Training Program. Become a critical member of the healthcare system and work directly with medical professionals and patients in various healthcare settings by completing this program. You’d learn how to do both clinical and clerical work, allowing you to work in either office administration or with patients directly.
Dental Assisting Training Program. This program will teach you the technical skills to excel both at administrative tasks like record keeping and dental assisting. Upon completion, you’ll be prepared to enter this high-paying, in-demand field.

Aiken Technical College | Grad Rate: 22%

This open-admission public school offers two-year programs and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Aiken Technical College awarded 271 credentials in 2021, 175 of them being associate degrees, 68 of them being certificates, and 28 of them being diplomas. Aiken also offers transfer programs.

Aiken Technical College Overview

Tuition: $189/credit hour (Aiken County residents); $204/credit hour (non-Aiken/in-state residents); $267/credit hour (out-of-state residents)
Student Population: 1,925
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 96%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: No minimum requirement

Best Aiken Technical College Programs

Associate in Applied Science in Radiologic Technology. This program teaches the technical and communication skills necessary to become a radiographer. Through the coursework, students get hands-on training with equipment, medical information, and bedside manners. Students need to take 89 credit hours to graduate, 23 of which are in general education classes, and 63 in the major.
Associate in Applied Science in General Technology—Emphasis in Engineering Graphics. This program combines computer-aided drafting (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), as well as industrial drafting. You’ll use programs like MICROSTATION, AutoCAD, and FeatureCAM to make industry-standard drawings.
Associate in Applied Science in Surgical Technology. After taking 25 general credit hours, you’ll complete 45 major credits preparing you to work in the operating room. Upon completion of the degree, you’ll take the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) certification exam.
Associate in Applied Science in Emergency Medical Technology. In this degree program, you’ll learn the medical knowledge and hands-on approaches needed to care for patients in dire need. You’ll be trained on how to be an EMS paramedic or be a technician in the hospital. Though Aiken is an open-admission school, for this program you’ll need to complete a separate application with supplemental requirements after your initial admission into the college.
Associate in Applied Science in General Technology—Emphasis in Welding Technology. With this degree, you’ll be prepared to work in an industry with excellent job security after learning welding design and practices alongside metallurgy. In order to be admitted into this program, you’ll need to either meet the minimum scores on your placement test or have completed prior prerequisites.

York Technical College | Grad Rate: 28%

This circa 1964 school based in Rock Hill offers 108 academic programs intended to help students’ occupational advancement and financial growth. Besides its typical student body, York Technical College also offers continuing education to businesses and residents in the area.

York Technical College Overview

Tuition: $184/credit hour (York or Chester County residents); $199/credit hour (out of district/in-state residents); $405/credit hour (out of state)
Student Population: 4,178
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 97%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: No minimum requirement

Best York Technical College Programs

Associate in Applied Science in Automotive Technology. This National Automotive Technicians Educational Foundation (NATEF)-certified program prepares students to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) exam to become certified mechanics. After taking general education classes, they'll take classes on emission, electrical, fuel, and ignition systems to diagnose and repair issues.
Associate in Applied Science in Business Administration with Entrepreneurial Specialization. This degree trains students to take risks and equips them with the necessary skills to develop effective management and administration practices. Students will know how to build and run their own small businesses upon completion of this program.
Associate in Applied Science in Industrial Maintenance Technology. This degree program teaches students not only the technical skills needed to operate industrial equipment, but also how to communicate efficiently, perform mathematical calculations, and read blueprints. Some examples of hardware students will become familiar with include pumps, valves, hydraulics, and Programmable Logic and Automation Controllers (PLCs and PACs).
Associate of Applied Science in General Technology — Fine Arts in Theater Production Specialization. This is a program designed for students who want to pursue a career in theater production with a specialization in graphic design. Combining both fine art drawing and set development, students will learn graphic design to craft the visuals of their own shows. In addition to taking animation and design classes, they'll hone other production skills like script analysis and music appreciation.
Associate in Applied Science in Early Care and Education. Those that want to work in public or private schools would do well with this program as it prepares graduates to teach students from zero to eight years of age. They’ll take classes in socialization, ethics of early education, supervision, and more, alongside learning core subjects like language, science, and math. Prospective students are required to undergo criminal background checks by the SC State Law Enforcement Division.

Piedmont Technical College | Grad Rate: 28%

This Greenwood-based school has a job-ready guarantee retraining policy, ensuring that all of its alumni can learn the most up-to-date and relevant skills for their chosen trade up to one year after graduation. For those that want to continue their education after Piedmont, there are more than 80 courses that can transfer to an eventual bachelor’s degree.

Piedmont Technical College Overview

Tuition: $184/credit hour (Greenwood, McCormick, Newberry, and Saluda Counties); $205/credit hour (Abbeville, Edgefield, and Laurens Counties); $216/credit hour (out of region); $269/credit hour (out of state)
Student Population: 4,712
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 98%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: No minimum requirement

Best Piedmont Technical College Programs

Administrative Office Technology—Accounting Concentration, AAS. Those wanting to work as an administrative assistant or in a similar position can take this program to learn data entry and accounting. Across the 63 credit hours, students take classes on microcomputer applications and spreadsheets, managing records, keyboarding, and more.
Automotive Technology, AAS. Those in the program work on eight different aspects of car maintenance, some of which include steering, suspension, and electronic systems. Classes will cover engine repair, fundamentals, and performance; automotive electronics, repair, and diagnosis; and shop supervision and management.
Cardiovascular Technology (Invasive) AAS. The program teaches students how to run tests of diagnoses on patients with cardiovascular diseases using state-of-the-art technology. After learning cardiovascular fundamentals, students take clinical and applications classes that will prepare them to work alongside cardiologists in the field.
Occupational Therapy Assistant, AAS. Those with physical or cognitive illnesses, injuries, or dysfunctions seek help from occupational therapists to strengthen their bodies and retrain their brains through exercise. To learn how to assist occupational therapists in providing evaluations and treatments, students take classes in gerontology, kinesiology, therapeutic analysis, and more.
Engineering Design Technology, AAS. By working with 3D modeling and designing systems, students will learn how to draft their own drawings to aid in construction and manufacturing projects. Students will take classes on material strengths, statics, physics, physics, and more.

Denmark Technical College | Grad Rate: 24%

This school in the South Carolina Technical and Comprehensive Education system offers 14 certificates and 25 two-year degree programs. The school strives to provide affordable, post-secondary education and offers programs in academic divisions of nursing, arts, sciences, institutional advancements, and industrial, computer, and business technology.

Denmark Technical College Overview

Tuition: $2,813/semester (in state); $5,626/semester (out of state)
Student Population: 491
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 93%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: No minimum requirement

Best Denmark Technical College Programs

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Technology. Those wanting to gain a position as an entry-level computer programmer can take this program on programming languages and software operations. There is also an optional Certificate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity for those wanting to specialize in keeping computer systems safe.
Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Development. Classes within this program cover exceptional children, growth and development, health and safety, family relations, and more. A position in this career offers great job security, as placement rates for graduates from these programs vary between 95 to 100 percent.
Associate of Applied Science in Cosmetology. Upon completion of this program, students will be equipped to pass the National State Board Exam to become professional cosmetologists. Classes will teach everything from hair styling and lightening to makeup and nail care.
Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice Technology. Those wanting to enter a career in law enforcement will take classes in police administration, criminal justice ethics, criminology, and more in this program. After completing this degree, students often find academy training easy. People that pursue a bachelor’s degree after their studies in Denmark can often transfer credits to complete their baccalaureate degree in two years.
Associate of Applied Science in Barbering. The South Carolina Board of Barber Examiners requires students to spend 1,500 hours on their craft between practicing hands-on and attending classes. In addition to technical skills, Denmark also teaches its students administrative skills for business ownership and management.

Trident Technical College | Grad Rate: 21%

This circa-1964 school offers programs for those with a wide range of interests, covering everything from hospitality and art to information technology and manufacturing. Trident Technical College offers more than 150 programs allowing graduates to enter the workforce directly or transfer their credits to a bachelor's degree.

Trident Technical College Overview

Tuition: $206/credit hour (Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester County residents); $227/credit hour (other South Carolina residents); $374/credit hour (out-of-state residents)
Student Population: 11,650
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 92%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: No minimum requirement

Best Trident Technical College Programs

Associate of Applied Science in Management—Human Resources. If you want to work in the employment side of a business, working on hiring and interviewing prospective employees, or do administrative tasks like managing salaries, you can take Trident Tech’s 60-credit program. Classes cover topics like business law and ethics, accounting, and employee retention.
Certificate of Applied Science in Sustainable Agriculture. It’s important to be able to farm in a way that both maximizes profits while also causing as little waste and negative environmental impact. This certificate program will teach students ways to incorporate sustainability into their agricultural procedures as well as integrate themselves in their local food systems and farm communities.
Associate of Applied Science in Homeland Security Management. This program prepares students for the further academy education required to become a federal agent. Those enrolled will take classes on managing incidents, international and domestic terrorism, emergencies in public health, criminal justice ethics, and more.
Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology. Graduates of this program will have experience working with all kinds of animals, performing everything from initial assessments to complex procedures in the lab. Those that have completed the program are encouraged to take the state and national licensing exams.
Associate of Applied Science in Respiratory Care. Throughout this 81-credit program, students will take courses covering hemodynamics, pathophysiology, respiratory pharmacology and diagnostics, and more. Those wanting to pursue this degree must complete additional admission requirements, like taking an online quiz and having scored a C or higher in math, anatomy, and physiology classes.

Central Carolina Technical College | Grad Rate: 23%

This school in Sumter offers 55-plus programs across diplomas, associate degrees, certificates, and an online curriculum. In addition to offering typical postsecondary educational classes, Central Carolina Technical College also has continuing education, youth apprenticeship, and training programs.

Central Carolina Technical College Overview

Tuition: $194/credit hour (Clarendon, Lee, Kershaw, and Sumter Counties); $227/credit hour (in state); $331/credit hour (out of state)
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 97%
Student Population: 2,885
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: No minimum requirement

Best Central Carolina Technical College Programs

Paralegal Associate of Applied Science. Whether you want to work in criminal or civil litigation, or another area of law, this interdisciplinary program is a great option, teaching paralegal classes in addition to social science and humanities courses. In this program you’d practice doing research on legal cases, interviewing clients, managing an office, and preparing legal documents.
Associate of Applied Science in Engineering General Technology. If you can’t find a specific program of interest, you can work with an advisor to craft a personalized engineering degree. You’d likely study between 60 to 84 credit hours, and would still need to take general education classes alongside your elective, primary, and secondary major courses.
Associate of Applied Science in Early Care and Education. Since groundbreaking research emphasizes the importance of education for children as young as one year old, you would be taking innovative classes geared towards teaching this demographic. Other courses cover topics like inclusive care for toddlers and infants, socialization, best practices, sociology, and more.
Certificate in Mechatronics Fundamentals. Combining mechanical engineering and electronics, those in this field work in manufacturing with power and hand tools, pneumatics, and hydraulics. Courses required to complete the certificate cover AC circuits, schematics, math, DC circuits, and more.
Associate Degree in Nursing. In addition to attending lectures and completing coursework, students will work with patients in clinical settings for their training. This program is very progressive, not just using state-of-the-art technology, but also emphasizing equitable health care across demographics.

Florence-Darlington Technical College | Grad Rate: 16%

The school boasts that 22 of its programs have a rate higher than 75 percent for job placement after graduation. In addition to Florence-Darlington Technical College’s normal courses of study, this community college offers classes to those that aren’t seeking a degree but wish to upskill in their career.

Florence-Darlington Technical College Overview

Tuition: $185/credit hour (Florence and Darlington County); $196/credit hour (other South Carolina counties); $274/credit hour (out of state)
Student Population: 3,315
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 93%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: No minimum requirement

Best Florence-Darlington Technical College Programs

Electrician Certificate. Those wanting an entry-level position within the electrician field will be able to secure a job upon finishing this certificate program. Students completing it learn everything from electrical codes and load calculations to print reading and wiring.
Associate in Applied Science in Automotive Technology. Working with cars and small trucks, students in this program learn every step of the technician process, from performing diagnostics to repairing automotive technology. The career services department at Florence-Darlington helps to place graduates in jobs through local businesses.
Associate in Applied Science Paralegal Degree. With this degree, you’ll learn how to apply technical skills to any area of law, from immigration and family to corporate and personal injury. You can enter the workforce upon completion of this program, but it is also a great introduction to the legal field for those that eventually want to continue their education to become a lawyer.
Machine Tool Diploma. Taking only three semesters, this program equips students to work in precision machining. You’d use hands-on machinery like saws, drill presses, lathes, grinders, and more while taking classes on safety, measurements, and metallurgy.
Associate in Applied Science in Human Services. Those wanting to be a part of this altruistic career field can pursue this associate degree and learn both the hands-on and theoretical skills needed to help provide care to others. You’d learn how to assess a client’s needs, and research and problem-solve possible solutions to improve their quality of life.

Greenville Technical College | Grad Rate: 14%

One of the state’s biggest two-year colleges, Greenville Technical College has associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates alongside transfer programs, allowing students to later pursue a baccalaureate degree at a university. This circa 1962 school provides an education that is both affordable and high-quality, is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Greenville Technical College Overview

Tuition: Varies between majors; School of Arts and Sciences’ tuition is $285/credit hour (in county), $305/credit hour (out of county/in state), and $485/credit hour (out of state)
Student Population: 10,536
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 92%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: No minimum requirement

Best Greenville Technical College Programs

Bachelor in Applied Science in Advanced Manufacturing Technology. This is the first applied baccalaureate program in South Carolina that’s offered at a two-year college. Students first complete Greenville’s associate degree and then study for two more years within this program. Rather than a typical bachelor’s degree, this BAS focuses on technical skills that can be directly applied to the workforce and has a curriculum that is project-based.
Associate in Applied Science in Computer Technology. The program has a continuously evolving curriculum that develops alongside technological advancements. This allows students to stay up-to-date on emerging technologies they’ll use in the industry and make them competitive candidates for job openings. Students can choose from four concentrations, including network, systems administration, programming, or cyber security.
Associate in Applied Science Degree in Engineering Design Technology. With a prior background in drawing, these students learn computer-aided 2D and 3D modeling and rendering. This program incorporates certificates into its program, allowing students to have multiple forms of academic accolades upon graduation.
Associate in Applied Science Surgical Technology. The curriculum trains students on how to help surgeons by giving them their required tools during operations. Those that complete the program can take the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Exam.
Photography Certificate. For those that don’t want to take general education classes or transfer to an eventual baccalaureate degree, they can complete this certificate program instead. Photography courses teach design, photojournalism, design, and computer graphics.

Midlands Technical College | Grad Rate: 15%

This school located in West Columbia has eight schools of study and more than 150 programs within them. If you don’t want to complete one of Midlands Technical College’s programs, you can also just take one of its hands-on, forward-thinking classes to upskill or for personal development.

Midlands Technical College Overview

Tuition: $188/credit hour (Richland, Lexington, and Fairfield Counties); $235/credit hour (out of county); $564/credit hour (out of state)
Student Population: 8,794
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 97%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: No minimum requirement

Best Midlands Technical College Programs

Associate Degree in Automotive Technology. This program teaches students both hands-on skills as well as automotive theory to allow them to excel in general or specialized technician work. The associate degree also offers certifications that can be embedded into the program, covering concentrations like engine repair and electrical systems.
Associate Degree in Accounting. Students in this program will learn how to make, file, and analyze data and reports with a variety of essential accounting software. In fact, this program offers embedded certifications for QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, and Sage software that will help make you a competitive applicant for future jobs.
Associate Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology. In order to help physicians in diagnosing and treating their patients, you’ll take classes on lab equipment and methods that will allow you to gather crucial information. You will be responsible for analyzing microorganisms, blood and other bodily fluids, running transfusion tests, and more. Graduates of this course are eligible to take the Board of Certification (BOC) examination offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
Associate Degree in Criminal Justice. Students taking this program will take classes on criminology, criminal law, procedures and evidence, correctional systems, and more to prepare them to work in either public safety or law enforcement upon graduation. This degree includes real-world experiences, having students shadow professionals in various fields of law.
Associate Degree in Art Studio. This degree allows students to explore a variety of mediums like drawing, painting, design, and more as they develop their skills to become professional artists. In addition to studio classes, students will also take classes on history, media, and publishing.

Best Online Community Colleges in South Carolina

Trident Technical College. This college offers over five fully-online programs to students who want to complete their education virtually. The disciplines cover homeland security, criminal justice, tourism and hospitality management, business technology, and art.
Aiken Technical College. This school offers online, web-enhanced, and hybrid classes and a fully-online Associate of Arts. In addition to typical coursework, to encourage student and faculty discussion, students work on a collaborative project once a week.
Midlands Technical College. Courses not taught in person are either offered online with pre-recorded lectures, virtually with live-streamed lectures, or hybrid with both online and in-person lectures.The school currently has five programs that are 100 percent online, which include a supervisory, criminal justice, payroll and accounting specialist, and billing and medical coding specialist certificates, alongside a Criminal Justice Associate Degree.

Best Online Associate Degrees

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Other South Carolina Community College Rankings

According to the US News & World Report, there are 32 South Carolina community colleges, and each has its own strengths. Some are great for transfer students, some are renowned for a specific degree program like nursing, and others offer bachelor’s degrees. Below, we’ll discuss schools with these aforementioned strengths.

Best Community Colleges in South Carolina for Transfer

Horry-Georgetown Technical College. HGTC allows students to easily transfer to a four-year university upon completion of their programs. Currently, the school has transfer agreements with 33 institutions, 16 of them being technical colleges, 13 of them being universities, and four of them being University of South Carolina’s two-year regional campuses.
Aiken Technical School. ATC offers transfer programs for general education as well as University of Arts and University of Sciences associate degrees. Across its various transferable programs, Aiken has more than 85 courses that can transfer directly to a four-year college or university.
Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College. OCtech boasts transferable AA and AS degrees in the University of Arts and Science. Of its nearly 20 program transfer options, some disciplines include business administration, criminal justice, food science, and teaching.

Best Community Colleges for Nursing in South Carolina

Fortis College-Columbia. This program is ideal for those who are already licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) and want to become registered nurses (RNs). Fortis allows LPNs and LVNs to transfer credits from their previous programs to their associate degree. Fortis also works with Denver College of Nursing, its sister school, to allow students to pursue the degree online.
Denmark Technical College. Denmark offers multiple nursing programs in pre-medical, nurse aide assistant, and practical nursing. Pre-medical students can study in Denmark to learn a baseline level of skills to prepare them for further education or allow them to gain an entry-level job. Denmark’s 48-hour practical nursing program prepares students to take the National Council Licensure Examination for the Practical Nurse upon graduation.
Central Carolina Technical College. This school is ideal for those that want to achieve an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) degree and work directly with patients upon graduation. The program has students work hands-on in clinical experiences, allowing them to work with real patients much more often than other programs, such as Fortis’ Denver online degree.

Best South Carolina Community Colleges That Offer Bachelor’s Degrees

Greenville Technical College. This college is the first two-year institution in South Carolina to have an Applied Baccalaureate program. Its Bachelor in Applied Science in Advanced Manufacturing Technology degree, for example, combines Greenville’s two-year associate degree with two years of a bachelor’s degree.
University of South Carolina—Lancaster. This community college within the University of South Carolina offers Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees in-person and online. USC’s associate degrees can lead to online bachelor’s degree completion through transfer programs. Some of the online bachelor’s degrees offered include an Associate of Arts and Associate of Science, a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication.
University of South Carolina—Sumter. While USC’s Lancaster campus is excellent for those who want to complete their associate and bachelor’s degrees online, Sumter is the better option if you want to complete your studies in person, as you can do both degrees on the same campus. For most of its programs, you can then complete your related BS or BA on Sumter’s campus, but other, more specific degrees are offered on USC’s other campuses.

Best Associate Degrees

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Best Community College Programs in South Carolina

A group of three people sitting at a coffee shop — South Carolina offers many programs related to in-demand fields in the workforce.

South Carolina community colleges have a variety of academic programs for everyone, from those who just graduated high school to those already in their career that want to upskill. Some want to enter the workforce upon graduation and those use a community college degree as a stepping stone for further education. Below, we’ll discuss some of the best community college programs in South Carolina so you can determine what is the right fit for you.

Criminal Justice

Many schools in South Carolina offer programs within criminal justice that are perfect for those that want to either work in law, corrections, law enforcement, or Homeland Security, to name a few. There are some jobs in criminal justice available upon completion of an associate degree, but often graduates will go on to earn a bachelor’s degree if they want to work in criminology and other theory-based fields. Of the schools on our list, Denmark Technical College, Trident Technical College, and Midlands Technical College all offer criminal justice degrees.

Education

Most of the best community colleges in South Carolina offers a degree program in education. Some schools on our list that have education programs are York Technical College, Central Carolina Technical College, and Midlands Technical College. The relevant degrees at those schools are listed as Associate in Applied Science major in Early Care and Education, Early Care and Education Associate Degree in Applied Science, and Associate Degree in Early Care and Education.

Business

The business programs that South Carolina’s community colleges typically offer are associate degrees. For example, York Technical College offers an Associate in Applied Science in Business Administration with Entrepreneurial Specialization, and Denmark Technical College offers an Associate Degree in Business Administration. You can enter the workforce upon completion of your associate degree, or transfer your credits to an affiliate university and study for two more years.

Nursing

While SC is most well-known for the Medical University of South Carolina, the state also has excellent nursing community college programs. Most programs are associate degrees, which allow students to become Registered Nurses (RNs) upon completion of their studies. Some that pursue this degree have no prior career experience, while others that are Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) will complete an associate degree to become an RN for a higher salary.

Automotive Technology

York Technical College has an Associate in Applied Science in Automotive Technology degree, Piedmont Technical College has an Automotive Technology AAS, Florence-Darlington Technical College has an Associate in Applied Science in Automotive Technology, and Midlands Technical College has an Associate Degree in Automotive Technology. After this degree, you could easily be placed in a well-paying job without the need for further education.

South Carolina Community College Admission Requirements

South Carolina’s community college admission requirements are not as strict as those of baccalaureate and graduate universities. For a community college, students need to complete an online application, show proof of high school education or GED and have SAT or ACT test scores.

In addition, students have to provide proof of residency for the state they live in to calculate the appropriate tuition costs. It could be in the form of a driver’s license or any proof of identification showing you currently reside in the US. Lastly, you must submit all forms if you seek government financial aid, scholarships, or waived tuition programs.

South Carolina Community College GPA Requirements

Some community colleges in the US require a minimum GPA for student applicants, however, the community colleges mentioned in this list do not have minimum grade scores. This is because most community colleges have an open admission policy, meaning they accept everyone that meets their other academic criteria. Most community colleges that require a standardized test will waive the requirement if a student’s high school GPA is 3.0 or higher.

If you’re wondering about the minimum GPA you’re required to keep to graduate from community college, it’s best to maintain a 2.0 GPA. At Central Carolina Community College, each student is required to sustain at least a 2.0 GPA or else they will be placed on academic probation.

Residency Requirements for Community Colleges in South Carolina

Residency requirements for community colleges in South Carolina vary. Tuition rates for community colleges are broken up by county as well as the state. For example, at Trident Technical College, residents living in Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester are charged $206 per credit hour. By contrast, those that live outside of those counties but still reside in South Carolina pay $227 per credit, while out-of-state students are required to pay $374 per credit hour.

If you wish to be considered for in-state tuition, you have to provide proof of your residency in accordance with South Carolina law. To be eligible for in-state tuition at Trident Technical College, for example, a student must have lived in South Carolina for 12 consecutive months.

South Carolina Community College Age Requirements

Most schools, like Denmark and Trident Technical College, have an age requirement of 18 years old to enter community college in South Carolina. This is because most students complete high school at the age of 18, and a high school diploma is an admission requirement to community college.

Additionally, many trades require students to operate dangerous equipment and having minor students can be a liability. Some schools will make an exception and admit 17-year-olds who will turn 18 by the time they begin school. This age requirement is standard across associate degrees as well as those who wish to take certificate programs.

South Carolina Community College Admission Requirements: A Summary

18 years of age
Online application form
ACT/SAT/ Accuplacer test scores
High school diploma or GED
Academic transcripts
FAFSA form

Why Study in South Carolina?

You should study in South Carolina if you want to experience life in the American South. This state has nice weather and an ideal geographical location. There are also many tourist areas throughout the state and many just beyond the state’s borders. Moreover, you should study in South Carolina if you live in the state so that you can get reduced tuition prices for more affordable education. Below, we’ll discuss these benefits in more detail.

Pleasant to Live in

The geography and climate of South Carolina are wonderful. Winters are very mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and spring tends to arrive in late February. Sure, August does get sweltering, but luckily air conditioning abounds in every building. Since the state borders the coast, you can go to schools near the water and have weekend getaways at the beach.

Plentiful Tourist Areas

Hand-in-hand with nice weather, there are also many tourist destinations that attract people to the state. Charleston, for example, is a popular city for tourism and nightlife. If you ever get tired of beachgoing, hiking, and watching the sunset over marshes, there are plentiful art and film festivals, galleries, theaters, and historical monuments sprinkled throughout the state.

Many Notable Universities

If you’re going to a community college in South Carolina, you will have great options if you want to continue studying for a bachelor’s degree. The state is home to University of South Carolina, which is a reputable school. Other popular options for a baccalaureate degree and beyond include College of Charleston or Medical University of South Carolina.

South Carolina Employment Outlook for Community College Students

The South Carolina employment outlook for community college students is promising. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that those with an associate degree earn $963 per week, which comes out to about $50,000 annually. Associate degrees make it possible to obtain many of the top occupational openings for 2022, which include registered nurses with 3,509 openings, maintenance and repair workers with 1,539 openings, and secretaries and administrative assistants with 1,244 openings.

5 In-Demand South Carolina Jobs

There are many in-demand South Carolina jobs for those who graduate from community college and want to stay in the state. You can work in fields like public health, administration, education, business, and more. Below, we’ll discuss five high-paying jobs with promising outlooks you can get with a degree from one of the best community colleges in South Carolina.

Accounting Assistant | Average Salary: $43,044

Most accountant or auditor jobs require a bachelor’s degree, but those with an associate degree can easily become an assistant to one of those professionals and work their way up the career ladder. Having gained familiarity with accounting software in your associate degree, you will be responsible for helping accountants streamline the financial records of a company or an individual. As an assistant, you’d likely speak directly with clients and process payments and transactions to help your department run smoothly.

Average Salary in South Carolina: N/A
Employment in South Carolina: 14,120
Overall Job Growth: 7%
Best South Carolina Community College Program: Associate Degree in Accounting

Registered Nurse | Average Salary: $77,600

After completing your associate degree and passing your licensing exam, you’ll be able to enter this high-paying, in-demand field. As a nurse, you could work in a variety of settings, from medical offices and hospitals to nursing and private homes, ensuring that patients’ treatment plans are followed.

Average Salary in South Carolina: $69,580
Employment in South Carolina: 46,160
Overall Job Growth: 9%
Best South Carolina Community College Program: Associate Degree in Nursing

Preschool Teacher | Average Salary: $30,210

Those who will graduate with an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education can have a fulfilling career as a preschool teacher, getting kids under the age of five ready for kindergarten. The education you’ll provide not be rigorous, but rather you’ll help teach students social, motor, and language skills.

Average Salary in South Carolina: $29,990
Employment in South Carolina: 4,570
Overall Job Growth: 18%
Best South Carolina Community College Program: Associate Degree in Early Care and Education

Mechanical Engineering Technologist or Technician | Average Salary: $60,460

In this career, likely after passing licensing exams, you’ll be able to assist mechanical engineers that are creating new technologies by testing projects in development. Often, technologists or technicians make note of their findings and corresponding data to inform the engineers of changes needed to be made.

Average Salary in South Carolina: $62,600
Employment in South Carolina: 710
Overall Job Growth: 6%
Best South Carolina Community College Program: Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology

Paralegal or Legal Assistant | Average Salary: $56,230

Unlike lawyers who need to pass a bar exam to practice law, paralegals with an associate degree can work in law as an assistant to lawyers. They do mostly clerical work, organizing documents, writing reports, and speaking with clients, and are often on-call, required to work more than your typical 40 hours per week.

Average Salary in South Carolina: $46,080
Employment in South Carolina: 5,870
Overall Job Growth: 12%
Best South Carolina Community College Program: Paralegal Associate Degree

What Community Colleges in South Carolina Have Dorms?

The community colleges in South Carolina that have dorms are Spartanburg Methodist College, Clinton Junior College, University of South Carolina’s Palmetto Colleges, and Denmark Technical College. These community living spaces offer the convenience of being close to classes, eliminating the need for extensive transportation. However, dormitories are often expensive compared to the amount of space you would get in a normal apartment, and many dorms require students to share a bedroom with another roommate.

South Carolina Community Colleges With Dorms

Clinton Junior College
Denmark Technical College
Spartanburg Methodist College
University of South Carolina—Palmetto Colleges

What Community Colleges Offer Winter Intersession in South Carolina?

A handful of community colleges offer winter intersessions in South Carolina, a few of them are Midlands Technical College, Trident Technical College, and York Technical College. All three schools call their intersessions “Wintermesters,” and involve intensive four-week classes running from mid-December to early January. York Technical College hosts their Wintermesters online only.

South Carolina Community Colleges With Winter Intersession

Midlands Technical College
Trident Technical College
York Technical College

What Community Colleges in South Carolina Have Summer Classes?

Numerous community colleges in South Carolina have summer classes. Some include Spartanburg Community College, Midlands Technical College, Technical College of the Lowcountry, TriCounty Technical College, and Trident Technical College. Most schools also offer multiple summer programs, some being a “Maymester” only during the month of May, and a Summer I or Summer II programs, each taking half of the remainder of summer break.

South Carolina Community Colleges With Summer Classes

Midlands Technical College
Spartanburg Community College
Technical College of the Lowcountry
TriCounty Technical College
Trident Technical College

How to Apply to Community College in South Carolina

You can apply to a community college in South Carolina by filling out an online application form on the school’s website. After completing your application, you’ll need to provide supplemental materials. These usually include academic transcripts from high school, standardized test scores from the SAT or ACT, application fees, and maybe even a placement test.

South Carolina Community College Application Steps

Fill out the online application form on the school’s website
Pay the application fee
Submit a FAFSA form
Submit official transcripts
Send in SAT or ACT test scores

Cost of Community Colleges in South Carolina

The cost of community colleges in South Carolina is $4,916 for in-state tuition and $10,206 for out-of-state tuition. Tuition costs will differ depending on the individual program, as they are usually calculated by how many credit hours are taken, and each degree has a different number of credits required for graduation. The typical cost per credit for schools on our list was between $200 and $300 for students residing in the school’s county.

Are Community Colleges Ever Free in South Carolina?

Yes, community colleges are occasionally free in South Carolina for qualifying applicants. You can obtain tuition waivers through scholarship grants or even financial aid through programs like FAFSA. In 2021, Governor Henry McMaster issued a workforce scholarship of $17 million that was distributed across community colleges in the state. Until the funds are used up, the scholarship will waive tuition for some 15,000 students in South Carolina.

Which Community Colleges Are Free in South Carolina?

There are a number of community colleges that are free in South Carolina right now, through Fall 2022 at least, though that is subject to change thereafter. Through the governor’s Workforce Scholarships for the Future pilot program, all community colleges like Aiken Technical College, Piedmont Technical College, Greenville Technical College, and Midlands Technical College will be tuition-free, requiring students to only pay for things like their textbooks.

Who Qualifies for Free Community College in South Carolina?

In order to qualify for a free community college in South Carolina, you must be enrolled in programs related to high-demand fields such as medicine, manufacturing and construction, tourism or hospitality, education, and more. Additionally, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate, and either be employed, do 100 hours of volunteer work at a charitable organization, or complete a financial literacy class at your community college.

How to Apply for Free Community College in South Carolina

Be at least 18 and a high school graduate
Complete your application
Provide proof of residency
Submit all standardized test scores and transcripts

Scholarships for Community Colleges in South Carolina

There are a number of scholarships for community colleges in South Carolina through the Commission on Higher Education, such as the LIFE Scholarship, the South Carolina HOPE Scholarship, and the Palmetto Fellows Scholarship. The best scholarship to apply for at the moment, though, is the SC Workforce Scholarships for the Future, which is completely waiving tuition for qualifying students through at least the Fall 2022 semester.

In general, to qualify for a typical scholarship, high school seniors need to have met a certain GPA and be in good academic standing with their school. Scholarships will often require students to submit impressive, standardized test scores, such as at least a 27 on the ACT or 1200 on the SAT. In addition to being a US citizen and having a clean criminal record, viable applicants will not be able to acquire more than one of the state’s scholarships at the same time.

How to Get a Scholarship for Community Colleges in South Carolina

Be a high school senior applying to community college
Have good academic standing and a minimum GPA
Provide impressive SAT or ACT scores
Be a US citizen
Don’t have a criminal record

South Carolina Community College Scholarships List

SC Workforce Scholarships for the Future | Amount: Full scholarship. This scholarship is offered at all technical colleges in South Carolina. Students enrolled in qualifying programs have tuition waived through at least the fall 2022 semester.
Legislative Incentive for Future Excellence (LIFE) Scholarship | Amount: Varies, but doesn’t exceed 5,000. This merit-based scholarship is open to students pursuing a four-year degree at a public or independent school, a two-year degree, or a technical degree for the first time. If you’re completing a two-year degree, you’re not able to get the LIFE Scholarship Enhancement, which is an extra $2,500 at maximum.
Palmetto Fellows Scholarship | Amount: $6,700-$7,500. This South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, merit-based scholarship is for high school seniors pursuing a four or two-year degree. Recipients can use the scholarship across eight semesters and can even use it during summer sessions.

Other South Carolina Community College Financial Aid Options

Aside from scholarships, other South Carolina community college financial aid options can ease the financial burden of your educational program. Other methods of financial assistance include federal and state grants, student loans, and work-study options. Below, we’ll discuss these in more detail.

Federal Grants

Students applying for admission in South Carolina’s technical and community college system are eligible for federal pell grants, a form of financial aid that does not have to be repaid. After reviewing your FAFSA form, an assessment is made based on your financial status and the cost of your future degree, and a grant amount is calculated accordingly.

South Carolina Grants

South Carolina provides this need-based grant program to students who would otherwise struggle to pay tuition and its associated costs. Full-time students can receive up to $2,500 when enrolled full-time, and part-time students can get up to $1,250, annually.

Student Loans

You can either take loans out through the federal government or through private banking companies. Taking out loans should be a last resort, as the burden of the loans plus interest will likely hang over you for more than 10 years. If you do need to take out loans, get them through the federal government, as there is a possibility they can be forgiven and canceled later.

Work-Study Options

Another way of paying for college is through the Federal Work-Study program. Within this program, you would work a part-time job related to your studies. Your earnings from your work would then go towards your tuition costs.

The Best Financial Aid for Your Situation

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What Are the Financial Aid Requirements for Community Colleges in South Carolina?

The financial aid requirements for community colleges in South Carolina include being a graduating senior intending on pursuing further education. Prospective recipients need to have a good GPA and respectable academic standing at their high school. Students will also need to file a FAFSA form to see if they qualify for federal assistance.

Once a student receives financial aid, they often need to keep their college GPA above a 2.0 to 3.0, maintain a clean criminal record, and be a part-time or full-time student.

South Carolina Financial Aid Requirements: Overview

FAFSA form
A resident of South Carolina
Enrolled part-time or full-time
Keep college GPA above a certain level
Have a clean criminal record

Should You Attend Community College in South Carolina?

Yes, you should attend a community college in South Carolina, especially if you are a resident of the state or of a school’s county. Through a community college program, you can either get a certificate or a two-year associate degree that will prepare you for entry-level jobs in your desired field. Many of the popular programs at community colleges, like nursing and manufacturing, are in fields that have a high demand for workers, making job placement upon graduation very likely.

You could also use that affordable, two-year associate degree by transferring those credits to a bachelor’s program at a university in the state. Now is also the perfect time to go to community college because, through the SC Workforce Scholarships for the Future pilot program, you might be able to have your tuition completely waived at least through the fall 2022 semester.

South Carolina Community College Rankings: Methodology

Our ranking of South Carolina community colleges is based mainly on the graduation rate. If graduation rate statistics were not available, we used data on student-to-faculty ratios to rank the remaining schools. These figures, sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), best reflect a student’s chances of getting the education and help they need to succeed.

Best Accelerated Degrees

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Best South Carolina Community Colleges FAQ

How can Americans in South Carolina get free college?

Americans living in South Carolina get free college currently at a community college through the SC Workforce Scholarships for the Future pilot program, making tuition free at least through the Fall of 2022. There are also other federal and private merit and need-based scholarship options that can provide financial assistance.

Is it hard to get into a community college in South Carolina?

No, it is not hard to get into a community college in South Carolina. Almost all community colleges in this state have open admissions policies, meaning that there is no minimum GPA requirement. Most schools simply require academic transcripts and any standardized test scores of their applicants, and applicants are often automatically enrolled thereafter.

Do I get more hands-on training from community college instructors than university instructors?

You will get more hands-on training from community college instructors than from university instructors because community colleges have smaller class sizes.

Do community colleges offer bachelor’s degrees?

Yes, there are some community colleges that offer bachelor’s degrees. However, this is uncommon as most community colleges partner with four-year universities, allowing the community college associate degree credits to be transferred to the latter school’s programs. In doing so, students are able to save money going to community college their first two years for their associate degree, and halve the time spent at a four-year university.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.

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About the Author

Yen Cantiga

Content Writer at Career Karma

Yen is an expert tech writer with eight years of experience. She previously worked for a top tech and engineering school, where she began her love for helping people find jobs in tech. She also has worked in digital media and other sectors. read more about the author

Jul 3, 2022